What is the meaning of Isaiah 49:7? Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel • The opening reminds us that the message originates with the covenant-keeping God Himself—our Redeemer (Isaiah 44:6,24) and the Holy One who separates His people from idols (Isaiah 43:14). • Because the Speaker is both Redeemer and Holy One, every promise that follows carries absolute authority and purity (Numbers 23:19; Revelation 19:11). to Him who was despised and abhorred by the nation • The “Him” is the Messianic Servant who would experience rejection. Isaiah later describes Him as “despised and rejected by men” (Isaiah 53:3). • This rejection was fulfilled when Jesus was scorned by His own people (John 1:11; Luke 23:18). • Psalm 22:6–8 foreshadowed the same contempt, underscoring the prophetic unity of Scripture. to the Servant of rulers • Although despised, the Servant voluntarily submits to earthly authorities (Philippians 2:7–8). Jesus stood before Pilate and Herod in fulfillment of this role (Matthew 27:11–14; Luke 23:7–11). • His servanthood does not negate His sovereignty; it highlights the humility that precedes exaltation (Isaiah 52:13; Mark 10:45). Kings will see You and rise, and princes will bow down • The tables turn: worldly leaders who once ignored Him will honor Him. This anticipates the global homage to Christ at His return (Isaiah 60:3; Psalm 72:10–11). • Philippians 2:10 declares that “every knee should bow,” echoing this scene and pointing to universal acknowledgment of His lordship. • Revelation 1:5–6 pictures Him as “the ruler of the kings of the earth,” confirming the inevitability of this homage. because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen You • The Servant’s ultimate vindication rests on God’s unwavering faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9; 2 Timothy 2:13). • The Father’s choice of the Son (Isaiah 42:1; Matthew 3:17) guarantees the outcome; human rejection cannot overturn divine election. • God’s holiness ensures that the exaltation of the Servant is both righteous and certain (Psalm 89:28–29; Isaiah 11:5). summary Isaiah 49:7 unveils the paradox of the Messiah: rejected and despised, yet ultimately honored by the greatest of earth’s powers. The Lord Himself speaks, guaranteeing the Servant’s future glory despite present scorn. Because God is faithful and has chosen His Servant, every king will stand in respect and every prince will bow in submission. What begins with humiliation ends with worldwide exaltation, confirming both the reliability of God’s promises and the triumph of His Redeemer. |
    |