◄ Isaiah 42 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Here Is My Servant (Matthew 12:15–21) 1“Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations. 2He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the streets. 3A bruised reed He will not break and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish; He will faithfully bring forth justice. 4He will not grow weak or discourageda before He has established justice on the earth. In His law the islands will put their hope.”b 5This is what God the LORD says— He who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and its offspring, who gives breath to the people on it and life to those who walk in it: 6“I, the LORD, have called you for a righteous purpose, and I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and appoint you to be a covenant for the people and a light to the nations, 7to open the eyes of the blind, to bring prisoners out of the dungeon and those sitting in darkness out from the prison house. 8I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not yield My glory to another or My praise to idols. 9Behold, the former things have happened, and now I declare new things. Before they spring forth I proclaim them to you.” A New Song of Praise (Psalm 98:1–9; Psalm 149:1–9) 10Sing to the LORD a new song— His praise from the ends of the earth— you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands,c and all who dwell in them. 11Let the desert and its cities raise their voices; let the villages of Kedar cry aloud. Let the people of Sela sing for joy; let them cry out from the mountaintops. 12Let them give glory to the LORD and declare His praise in the islands. 13The LORD goes forth like a mighty one; He stirs up His zeal like a warrior. He shouts; yes, He roars in triumph over His enemies: 14“I have kept silent from ages past; I have remained quiet and restrained. But now I will groan like a woman in labor; I will at once gasp and pant. 15I will lay waste the mountains and hills and dry up all their vegetation. I will turn the rivers into dry landd and drain the marshes. 16I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground. These things I will do for them, and I will not forsake them. 17But those who trust in idols and say to molten images, ‘You are our gods!’ will be turned back in utter shame. Israel Is Deaf and Blind 18Listen, you deaf ones; look, you blind ones, that you may see! 19Who is blind but My servant, or deaf like the messenger I am sending? Who is blind like My covenant partner, or blind like the servant of the LORD? 20Though seeing many things, you do not keep watch. Though your ears are open, you do not hear.” 21The LORD was pleased, for the sake of His righteousness, to magnify His law and make it glorious. 22But this is a people plundered and looted, all trapped in caves or imprisoned in dungeons. They have become plunder with no one to rescue them, and loot with no one to say, “Send them back!” 23Who among you will pay attention to this? Who will listen and obey hereafter? 24Who gave Jacob up for spoil, and Israel to the plunderers? Was it not the LORD, against whom we have sinned? They were unwilling to walk in His ways, and they would not obey His law. 25So He poured out on them His furious anger and the fierceness of battle. It enveloped them in flames, but they did not understand; it consumed them, but they did not take it to heart. Footnotes: 4 a Or bruised 4 b Or In His teaching the coastlands will put their hope; LXX In His name the nations will put their hope; cited in Matthew 12:18–21 10 c Or coastlands; also in verse 12 15 d Or coastlands or islands Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 42 Summary Here Is My Servant Verses 1–4 – The Gentle Servant Who Brings Justice God introduces “My Servant” as His chosen one, upheld by His Spirit. The Servant is marked by quiet strength—“He will not cry out or raise His voice” (v. 2). He tends to the weakest (“A bruised reed He will not break,” v. 3) yet presses on until “He has established justice on the earth” (v. 4), giving distant coasts hope in His teaching. Verses 5–9 – God Commissions His Servant and Declares New Things The Creator of heaven and earth speaks, placing the Servant under His personal protection: “I…appoint You to be a covenant for the people and a light to the nations” (v. 6). The Servant will open blind eyes and free captives. The LORD will not share His glory with idols, and He now announces fresh acts before they unfold. Verses 10–12 – A New Song from All the Earth Isaiah calls for a “new song” that reaches from the sea to the desert, from Kedar’s tents to Sela’s cliffs. Everywhere, people are urged to “declare His praise in the islands” (v. 12). Verses 13–17 – The Warrior LORD and the Fate of Idols The LORD shifts from silent restraint to bold action: “He shouts out…He will prevail against His enemies” (v. 13). Israel’s rescuing God will level obstacles, guide the blind, and put idol-worshipers to shame. Verses 18–25 – Israel’s Blindness and Discipline While the nations are blind yet ready to see, Israel—called God’s servant—remains willfully deaf. Because the people “were unwilling to walk in His ways” (v. 24), they became prey to invaders. Even scorching judgment has not awakened them to understanding. Isaiah 42 is a profound chapter in the Book of Isaiah, exhibiting God's unyielding love and grace for His people. Here, the LORD introduces His chosen Servant, hinting at the future Messiah, and proclaims His commitment to establishing justice in the world. This chapter intertwines prophecy, divine promise, chastisement, and calls to praise in a symphony of revelation, urging the faithful to hope in the LORD's Salvation. Historical Background: Isaiah’s Audience and World Isaiah spoke in Jerusalem during the late 700s BC, warning Judah of coming exile yet promising future comfort. Chapter 42 looks beyond the immediate threat of Assyria or the later Babylonian captivity, sketching God’s larger plan to bless Israel and all nations through the Servant. Understanding “My Servant” 1. A corporate meaning: Israel was originally called to serve God before the world (41:8). 2. A personal meaning: Here, the Servant is an individual with a universal mission, Spirit-empowered, gentle, and faithful—traits met perfectly in Jesus. Matthew 12:18-21 explicitly quotes Isaiah 42:1-4 and applies it to Him. Four Portraits of the Servant Isaiah 42 is the first of four main “Servant Songs” (42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-9; 52:13–53:12). Together they show the Servant’s calling, suffering, atoning work, and ultimate triumph. How Jesus Fulfills Isaiah 42 • Spirit-anointed at His baptism (Matthew 3:16). • Gentle healer who avoids spectacle (Matthew 12:15-20). • Proclaims liberty to prisoners of sin (Luke 4:18). • Light to the nations as foretold (Acts 13:47). • Establishes lasting justice when He returns (Revelation 11:15). Justice: What the Servant Delivers “Justice” (Hebrew mishpat) means setting things right—socially, morally, spiritually. The Servant secures fairness for the oppressed and reveals God’s righteous standards. This is seen in Jesus’ teaching, His cross, and the coming kingdom. Light to the Nations: The Inclusion of the Gentiles Isaiah’s vision widens beyond Israel. Verse 6 promises the Servant as “a light to the nations,” echoed in Simeon’s blessing over the infant Jesus (Luke 2:32) and Paul’s mission strategy (Romans 15:8-12). Blindness and Deafness: A Spiritual Diagnosis Israel’s problem is not lack of information but unwilling hearts (42:18-20). Jesus confronted the same issue (John 9:39-41). Today, openness to God’s word still decides whether people move from darkness to light. Archaeological Glimpses: Cyrus, Idols, and the Coastal Lands • Clay cylinders and inscriptions from Babylon show Cyrus allowed exiles to return, setting the stage for Isaiah’s predictions (44–45). • Excavated household idols (teraphim) reveal the pull of polytheism that Isaiah challenges. • Trade records list distant islands such as Cyprus and Crete, underscoring Isaiah’s repeated call to “the islands” (v. 4, 10, 12) to heed God’s Servant. Key Hebrew Terms in the Chapter • ‘Ebed – “servant” (v. 1): implies loyalty and delegated authority. • Rûaḥ – “Spirit” (v. 1): the empowering presence of God. • Mishpat – “justice” (vv. 1, 3, 4): upright order. • Berit – “covenant” (v. 6): binding promise. • ’Ēverim – “blind” (v. 16): used both physically and figuratively. Connections to Other Scriptures • Genesis 12:3 – Blessing all families ties to “light to the nations.” • Psalm 72 – A king who rules with justice resembles the Servant’s role. • Micah 6:8 – Walking humbly and doing justice matches the Servant’s character. • John 8:12 – “I am the light of the world” advances Isaiah 42:6. • Revelation 5:9 – People from every tribe sing a new song, echoing Isaiah 42:10. Practical Takeaways • Look to Jesus as the model of gentle strength—firm on truth, tender with the weak. • Join the Servant’s work by caring for those whose “reed” is bruised. • Worship God alone; idols today may be career, pleasure, or self. • Pray for spiritual sight, avoiding the self-chosen blindness that plagued Israel. • Celebrate God’s global vision; support missions that carry His light to the ends of the earth. Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 12:18-21 Jesus is identified as the fulfillment of Isaiah 42, highlighting His role as the Servant who brings justice and hope. Philippians 2:5-8 This passage describes the humility and servanthood of Christ, paralleling the characteristics of the Servant in Isaiah 42. John 8:12 Jesus declares Himself as the light of the world, connecting to the Servant's role as a light to the nations. Teaching Points The Chosen Servant Isaiah 42:1 states, Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations. This verse highlights the divine selection and empowerment of the Servant, who is a source of delight to God. Gentle and Compassionate Verses 2-3 describe the Servant's demeanor: He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the streets. A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish. The Servant's approach is gentle and compassionate, emphasizing care for the weak and vulnerable. Bringer of Justice The Servant's mission is to establish justice. Verse 4 assures us, He will not grow weak or discouraged until He has established justice on the earth. In His law the islands will put their hope. This underscores the Servant's perseverance and the global scope of His mission. A Light to the Nations In verses 6-7, God declares, I will appoint You as a covenant for the people and a light to the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring prisoners out of the dungeon and those sitting in darkness out from the prison house. The Servant is a beacon of hope and liberation for all people. God's Glory and Praise Verse 8 reminds us of God's sovereignty: I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols. This emphasizes the importance of worshiping God alone and recognizing His ultimate authority. Practical Applications Embrace Your Calling Just as the Servant was chosen and empowered by God, we too are called to fulfill God's purposes in our lives. Seek to understand and embrace your unique calling. Practice Gentleness Follow the example of the Servant by showing compassion and gentleness to those around you, especially the weak and vulnerable. Pursue Justice Be an advocate for justice in your community, working tirelessly to bring about fairness and righteousness. Be a Light Share the hope and truth of the Gospel with others, being a light in a world that often feels dark and hopeless. Worship God Alone Ensure that your worship and devotion are directed solely to God, avoiding the temptation to idolize anything or anyone else. People 1. The Servant of the LORD Description: The central figure in Isaiah 42, described as God's chosen servant who will bring justice to the nations. In conservative Christian interpretation, this servant is often identified as Jesus Christ. The passage highlights the servant's gentle and humble nature, as well as his mission to establish justice and be a light to the Gentiles. Key Verses: Isaiah 42:1-4 Hebrew Roots: The term "servant" (עֶבֶד, 'ebed) is significant, indicating one who serves God with a special purpose. 2. The LORD (Yahweh) Description: The speaker in much of Isaiah 42, who commissions the servant and declares his purpose. The LORD is portrayed as the creator of the heavens and the earth, emphasizing His sovereignty and power. Key Verses: Isaiah 42:5-9 Hebrew Roots: The name "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, underscoring His eternal and unchanging nature. 3. The Blind and Deaf Description: Symbolic references to the people of Israel, who are described as blind and deaf to God's messages and works. This imagery is used to highlight their spiritual insensitivity and need for redemption. Key Verses: Isaiah 42:18-20 Hebrew Roots: The terms "blind" (עִוֵּר, 'ivver) and "deaf" (חֵרֵשׁ, cheresh) are used metaphorically to describe spiritual conditions. Places 1. Kedar Kedar is mentioned in Isaiah 42:11. It refers to a region inhabited by the descendants of Kedar, a son of Ishmael. In the context of Isaiah, Kedar represents the nomadic tribes of Arabia. The Hebrew root for Kedar (קֵדָר) suggests a dark or dusky place, often associated with the tents of the nomadic people. 2. Sela Also found in Isaiah 42:11, Sela is a place that means "rock" in Hebrew (סֶלַע). It is often identified with the city of Petra in modern-day Jordan. Sela is significant as a fortified city and a place of refuge, symbolizing strength and protection. 3. Islands The term "islands" appears in Isaiah 42:4 and 42:10. In Hebrew, the word used is אִיִּים (iyim), which can refer to coastlands or distant lands. This term is often used to denote the far reaches of the earth, emphasizing the universal scope of God's message and salvation. Events 1. Introduction of the Servant Isaiah 42:1 introduces the "Servant" whom God upholds. The Hebrew word for "servant" is עֶבֶד ('ebed), which is often interpreted in Christian theology as a prophecy about Jesus Christ. The verse states, "Here is My Servant, whom I uphold, My Chosen One, in whom My soul delights. I will put My Spirit on Him, and He will bring justice to the nations." 2. The Servant's Gentle Manner Verses 2-3 describe the Servant's gentle and non-violent approach: "He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the streets. A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish." This reflects the Hebrew concept of humility and gentleness, emphasizing the Servant's compassionate nature. 3. The Servant's Mission of Justice In verse 4, the Servant is depicted as steadfast in bringing justice: "He will not grow weak or discouraged until He has established justice on the earth. In His law the islands will put their hope." The Hebrew word for "justice" is מִשְׁפָּט (mishpat), indicating a divine order and righteousness. 4. God's Covenant and Light to the Nations Verse 6 highlights the Servant as a covenant and a light: "I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and appoint you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the nations." The Hebrew word for "covenant" is בְּרִית (berit), signifying a binding agreement, often seen as fulfilled in the New Testament through Christ. 5. Liberation and Enlightenment Verse 7 describes the Servant's role in liberation: "to open the eyes of the blind, to bring prisoners out of the dungeon and those sitting in darkness out from the prison house." This is often interpreted as both physical and spiritual liberation, with "blind" (עִוֵּר, 'ivver) and "prisoners" (אָסִיר, asir) symbolizing those in spiritual darkness. 6. God's Glory and Praise In verses 8-9, God declares His glory: "I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not yield My glory to another or My praise to idols. Behold, the former things have happened, and now I declare new things; before they spring forth, I proclaim them to you." This emphasizes God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of prophecy. 7. A New Song of Praise Verses 10-12 call for a new song of praise to the LORD: "Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who dwell in them." This reflects the universal call to worship God. 8. The LORD as a Warrior Verses 13-15 depict the LORD as a mighty warrior: "The LORD will march out like a mighty man, He will stir up His zeal like a warrior. He will shout; yes, He will roar. He will prevail against His enemies." This imagery underscores God's power and determination to bring about justice. 9. God's Compassion and Guidance Verses 16-17 describe God's guidance: "I will lead the blind by a way they did not know; I will guide them on unfamiliar paths. I will turn darkness into light before them and rough places into level ground." This highlights God's compassion and transformative power. 10. Rebuke of Idolatry Verses 18-25 conclude with a rebuke of idolatry and a call to heed God's message: "Hear, you deaf, and look, you blind, that you may see. Who is blind but My servant, or deaf like the messenger I send?" This serves as a warning against spiritual blindness and disobedience. Lessons from Isaiah 42 1. The Servant's Mission: Bringing Justice Isaiah 42 introduces us to the Servant of the Lord, whose mission is to bring justice to the nations. This Servant, a foreshadowing of Christ, is described as one who "will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the street" (Isaiah 42:2). His approach is gentle yet powerful, reminding us that true justice is achieved not through force, but through righteousness and truth. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate this approach in our own lives, advocating for justice with humility and love. 2. A Light to the Nations The chapter highlights the Servant as a "light for the nations" (Isaiah 42:6). This imagery is a beautiful reminder of our calling to be a beacon of hope and truth in a world often shrouded in darkness. Just as Christ is the light of the world, we too are called to reflect His light, guiding others towards the truth and love found in Him. 3. The Gentle Healer Isaiah 42:3 tells us, "A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not extinguish." This verse paints a picture of the Servant's compassion and care for the weak and weary. It encourages us to approach others with the same gentleness, offering support and encouragement to those who are struggling, just as Christ does for us. 4. The Faithfulness of God The chapter reassures us of God's unwavering faithfulness. "I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not yield My glory to another or My praise to idols" (Isaiah 42:8). This declaration reminds us that God is steadfast and unchanging, deserving of our complete trust and devotion. In a world full of uncertainties, we can find peace in His eternal promises. 5. New Things Declared Isaiah 42:9 proclaims, "Behold, the former things have happened, and now I declare new things." This verse speaks to the transformative power of God, who is always at work, bringing about new beginnings and opportunities. It encourages us to remain open to the new paths God is paving in our lives, trusting in His perfect plan. 6. A Call to Praise The chapter is a call to worship, urging all creation to sing a new song to the Lord (Isaiah 42:10). This invitation to praise is a reminder of the joy and gratitude that should fill our hearts as we reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness. Worship is not just a Sunday activity but a daily expression of our love and reverence for our Creator. 7. God's Zeal for His People Isaiah 42:13 describes the Lord as a "mighty warrior" who "will stir up His zeal." This imagery conveys God's passionate commitment to His people, fighting on their behalf and ensuring their ultimate victory. It reassures us that we are never alone in our battles, for God is actively working for our good. 8. The Blindness of Idolatry The chapter warns against the futility of idolatry, highlighting the spiritual blindness it brings (Isaiah 42:17). It serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to keep our focus on God alone, rather than being distracted by the temporary and empty promises of the world. True fulfillment is found only in Him. 9. The Call to Listen and Obey Isaiah 42:23 asks, "Who among you will pay attention to this? Who will listen and obey in the time to come?" This question challenges us to be attentive to God's voice and responsive to His commands. Obedience is a key aspect of our faith journey, leading us to deeper understanding and closer relationship with God. 10. The Promise of Redemption Finally, Isaiah 42 assures us of God's redemptive plan. Despite the people's failures, God promises to lead the blind by ways they have not known (Isaiah 42:16). This promise of guidance and redemption is a testament to God's grace and mercy, offering hope and assurance that He is always working to restore and renew us. Topics 1. The Servant of the LORD Isaiah 42 begins with the introduction of the LORD's chosen servant. This servant is described as one who will bring justice to the nations. The Hebrew word for "servant" (עֶבֶד, 'ebed) indicates a position of service and obedience. The passage highlights the servant's gentle and humble nature, as he will not "cry out or raise his voice" (Isaiah 42:2). 2. The Mission of the Servant The servant's mission is to establish justice on earth. He is described as a light to the nations, opening the eyes of the blind and freeing captives from prison (Isaiah 42:6-7). The Hebrew word for "justice" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) emphasizes the servant's role in bringing about divine order and righteousness. 3. The LORD's Glory and Praise The LORD declares His glory and the futility of idols. He emphasizes that He will not share His glory with another, nor His praise with idols (Isaiah 42:8). The Hebrew word for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) signifies the weight and honor due to God alone. 4. A New Song of Praise The passage calls for a new song of praise to the LORD, celebrating His mighty acts and His sovereignty over creation (Isaiah 42:10-12). The call to sing a "new song" (שִׁיר חָדָשׁ, shir chadash) reflects a response to God's ongoing work and revelation. 5. The LORD's Triumph over His Enemies The LORD is depicted as a warrior who will go forth to triumph over His enemies. This section emphasizes God's power and determination to bring about justice and righteousness (Isaiah 42:13-15). The imagery of God as a warrior (גִּבּוֹר, gibbor) underscores His strength and victory. 6. The Blindness and Deafness of Israel The chapter addresses the spiritual blindness and deafness of Israel, highlighting their failure to recognize and respond to God's message (Isaiah 42:18-20). The Hebrew terms for "blind" (עִוֵּר, 'ivver) and "deaf" (חֵרֵשׁ, cheresh) symbolize a lack of spiritual perception and understanding. 7. The LORD's Righteous Judgment The final section of Isaiah 42 speaks of the LORD's righteous judgment upon His people due to their disobedience and failure to heed His law (Isaiah 42:24-25). The emphasis on "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) reflects God's commitment to justice and moral order. Themes 1. The Servant of the Lord Isaiah 42 introduces the "Servant of the Lord," a key figure in the prophecy. This servant is described as chosen and upheld by God, filled with His Spirit to bring justice to the nations. The Hebrew word for "servant" (עֶבֶד, 'ebed) emphasizes a role of submission and dedication to God's will. The passage highlights the servant's gentle and humble approach: "He will not cry out or raise His voice, nor make His voice heard in the streets" (Isaiah 42:2). 2. Justice and Righteousness A central theme is the establishment of justice and righteousness. The servant is tasked with bringing forth justice to the nations, a recurring theme in the chapter. The Hebrew word for "justice" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) implies a divine order and fairness that the servant will establish: "He will faithfully bring forth justice" (Isaiah 42:3). 3. Light to the Nations The servant is also described as a "light for the nations" (Isaiah 42:6), indicating a mission that extends beyond Israel to the Gentiles. This theme underscores the universal scope of God's salvation plan. The Hebrew word for "light" (אוֹר, 'or) symbolizes guidance, revelation, and hope. 4. Covenant and Redemption God declares that He has called the servant in righteousness and will make him a covenant for the people. This theme highlights the servant's role in God's redemptive plan: "I will appoint You as a covenant for the people and a light to the nations" (Isaiah 42:6). The Hebrew term for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a binding agreement, emphasizing the servant's role in fulfilling God's promises. 5. God's Sovereignty and Glory The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and His refusal to share His glory with idols: "I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols" (Isaiah 42:8). This theme underscores the uniqueness and supremacy of God, as well as His rightful claim to worship and honor. 6. New Things and Prophetic Fulfillment Isaiah 42 speaks of "new things" that God declares before they spring into being: "See, the former things have happened, and now I declare new things" (Isaiah 42:9). This theme highlights God's ability to bring about change and fulfill His prophetic word, demonstrating His control over history and future events. 7. Praise and Worship The chapter concludes with a call to praise and worship God for His mighty acts and faithfulness: "Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise from the ends of the earth" (Isaiah 42:10). This theme reflects the appropriate response to God's revelation and the anticipated fulfillment of His promises. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Jesus Thank God for sending Jesus, the ultimate Servant, to bring justice and salvation to the world. Empowerment for Service Pray for the Holy Spirit's empowerment to fulfill your calling and serve others with compassion and justice. Commitment to Justice Ask God to give you a heart for justice and the courage to stand up for what is right in your community. Light in Darkness Pray for opportunities to be a light to those around you, sharing the hope and truth of the Gospel. Exclusive Worship Seek God's help in maintaining a heart of worship that is focused solely on Him, free from idolatry. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the prediction in Isaiah 42:1 about a “chosen servant” be verified historically or archeologically? 2. Why does Isaiah 42:4 seem to contradict later passages that depict the Messiah as suffering and dying (e.g., Isaiah 53)? 3. If Isaiah 42 is meant to describe a future figure, why do some details reflect the socio-political context of the time it was written? 4. Where is the scientific or archeological evidence supporting Isaiah 42:10–12’s claim of global praise to this servant? 5. Could Isaiah 42:6–7 be an ex eventu prophecy, written after the outcomes it predicts already occurred? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Isaiah 42 portray the character and mission of the Servant of the LORD? How do these characteristics connect to Jesus? 2. How can we apply the promise of justice in Isaiah 42 to our world today? 3. How can you personally respond to God's call to be a "light to the nations"? 4. How does God's declaration of new things (verse 9) inspire hope in the face of current world crises? 5. How does the call to sing a new song to the LORD resonate with you personally? 6. How do you deal with spiritual blindness in your own life? What can you learn from this chapter? 7. What can we learn from God's patience and His eventual action against idol worshippers? 8. How can we ensure that we don't become like the blind and deaf servant in verses 18-25? 9. How does the concept of a covenant in Isaiah 42 apply to the New Testament covenant through Christ? 10. How can we bring forth justice in our communities in a manner consistent with the humble and persevering justice of God's Servant in this chapter? 11. What does it mean for you to praise God amidst trials as the people are called to do in this chapter? 12. How does the Servant's mission align with your understanding of God's ultimate plan for humanity? 13. How can this chapter inspire us to maintain hope and trust in God's plans amidst uncertainty? 14. How can we interpret God's act of making the blind see and freeing the captives in a spiritual sense? 15. How can you incorporate the lesson from this chapter into your daily prayer life? 16. What can this chapter teach us about God's view on idolatry and how can we apply it to modern-day idolatries? 17. How does the divine chastisement in this chapter reflect God's love? 18. How can we address the "spiritual blindness" present in our society today? 19. How does God's call for a "new song" inspire creativity in your personal worship? 20. How does the prophetic declaration in this chapter strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty and His control over history? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions