Behold, My Servant Shall Deal Prudently

Text: Isaiah 52
23 December 2012

(I) BEHOLD, MY SERVANT

1. In contrast to Israel

a) Blind ( Isaiah 42:19a )

b) Deaf ( Isaiah 49:19b )

2. In clear proud tones

a) In whom My soul delights ( Isaiah 42:1b )

b) He shall be exalted and extolled and be very high ( Isaiah 42:13b )

c) On earth ( Mark 2:12; Matthew 8:27 )

d) In heaven ( Philippians 2:5-11 )

(II) THE PRUDENCE OF THE MESSIANIC SERVANT

1. The astonishment of the people

“Just as many were astonished at you…” Isaiah 52:14a

2. Suffering

“His visage was marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men” Isaiah 52:14

a) Anticipating and accepting suffering ( Matthew 16:21 )

b) Undergoing suffering ( 1 Peter 2:21-25 )

c) Learning in suffering ( Hebrews 5:8 )

d) Triumph in suffering ( Hebrews 2:9, 18 )

(III) THE RAMIFICATIONS OF CHRIST’S PRUDENT MINISTRY

1. His teachings

a) The Core of the New Testament

b) The Foundation of the Church

2. His Suffering and Death

a) Basis of our atonement

b) Basis of our salvation

(IV) THE PLACE OF CHRIST IN OUR FAITH AND LIFE

1. He must be Pre-eminent

2. He must be the Centre

3. He must be the Perfect Example

4. He must be the Foundation

5. He must be the Head

6. He must be the Lord of lords and the King of kings