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YOU ARE MY SERVANT

Text: Isaiah 41-42
1 March 2015

SERVANTS OF GOD

The term “servant (of God)” was applied in two ways in the Book of Isaiah.

1. It was a reference to Israel

But you, Israel, are My servant…

And said to you,

You are My servant…                                          Isaiah 41:8, 9

2. It was a reference to the Messiah

Behold, My Servant whom I uphold…              Isaiah 42:1


THE FAILURE OF ISRAEL AS A SERVANT OF GOD

Ancient Israel was really privileged to be called “a servant of God.” Many precious promises were given to the nation. The following may be highlighted:-

1. God promised His presence            Isaiah 41:10

2. He promised strength                      Isaiah 41:10

3. He promised help                             Isaiah 41:10

4. He promised upholding                  Isaiah 41:10

Sadly, these promises fell on deaf ears. The nation continued to indulge in idolatry and essentially forsook the Lord their God.


THE PROPHECY OF THE MESSIAH-SERVANT

The Lord gave a prophetic word to the nation of Israel. He would send them a Messiah. He would show them that it was possible to succeed as a Servant of God, given similar promises! The following promises may be highlighted:-

1. The promise of the Lord’s upholding                 Isaiah 42:1

2. The Lord would give Him the Holy Spirit         Isaiah 42:1


THE WORK OF THE MESSIAH-SERVANT

The work of the Messiah-Servant was infinitely more difficult than that given to Israel.

1. He will bring forth justice                          Isaiah 42:1

2. He will usher in a new covenant              Isaiah 42:6

3. He will minister:-

a) To the spiritually blind

b) To those who were spiritually imprisoned


THE SUCCESS OF THE MESSIAH-SERVANT

In the pulpit series (March-April 2015), we will study how the Messiah-Servant succeeded in faithfully fulfilling all that God commanded. May our hearts be challenged to emulate the Lord Jesus Christ in service!