The True Identity of the Servant in Isaiah 42

The identity of the ‘servant’ in the Book of Isaiah has been a topic of much discussion and interpretation over the centuries. Central to these interpretations is the reference in the Gospel of Matthew to Jesus Christ as identified in Isaiah 42:1-4 as the “beloved servant,” the “chosen one.” However, careful examination of Isaiah 42-53 provides a broader understanding of the context and identifies who the ‘servant’ truly represents, both in the historical and prophetic context.

Israel as the Servant

Central to the interpretation of Isaiah 42-53 is a clear identification of the ‘servant’ as Israel, or Jacob. Chapters 42-53 provide a narrative of the disciplinary role of Jehovah over Israel, as well as the eventual restoration and reconciliation with God. This period of Israel’s history includes various stages, essentially reflecting the nation’s journey from idolatry to restoration, culminating in the eventual rebuilding of Jerusalem post-exile. Central to this narrative is the figure of Cyrus of the Persian Empire, who is identified as the one who will aid in the rebuilding of Jerusalem, thus fulfilling a prophecy and restoring hope to the exiled Israelites.

The Temporal Servant and the Messiah

While Israel fits the temporal aspect of the servant (the one disciplined and restored), a separate and distinct identification is necessary for the eternal aspect of the servant, as described in chapters 52 and 53. Here, the description of the servant who is “wounded for our transgressions” (Isaiah 53:5) does not fit Israel. The Israelites vehemently rejected the messianic figure, Jesus Christ, described in Isaiah 53. This further emphasizes that the ‘servant’ in this context must be someone who fulfills the messianic predictions rather than the nation as a whole.

The Divine Heir of David and the True Servant

The identification of the true servant with King David serves as a crucial point of analysis. The promises made to David in terms of a prosperous nation, a durable temple, and eternal kingship are conditional on faithful obedience to Jehovah. If Israel did not fulfill these conditions, the ‘servant’ in Isaiah 53 cannot be Israel. The servant in chapter 53 is described as innocent and just, suffering despite his innocence, with no descendant from the line of David. This contrasts sharply with the historical course of the Israelite monarchy and the lives lived by its leaders. Thus, the ‘servant’ must be identified elsewhere as yet another manifestation of God’s plan.

Relevance to the Early Christians and their Jews Critics

The conflict between early Christians and Jewish establishment after the destruction of the Second Temple in AD 70 underscores the tension between the conditional promises to Israel and the unconditional promises to the true servant. Early Christians, largely Jews, were violently opposed by non-believing Jews who rejected the messiahship of Jesus. This rejection led to a significant divide, but it also highlighted the need for a faithful remnant to keep the promises alive and to adhere to the true God, Jehovah.

The Uniqueness of Jehovah and His Son

At the heart of the matter is the understanding that Jehovah, the God of Israel, had to send His firstborn, only-begotten Son to Earth to show the way to salvation. The refusal of Israel to obey and the subsequent rejection of Jesus Christ by many highlight the importance of faith in determining one's fate. In contrast, those who do the will of God's father, Jehovah, are portrayed as those who will enter the kingdom of heaven.

Conclusion

The ‘servant’ in Isaiah 42-53 signifies different aspects of God's plans for humanity. While the historical figures, Israel and Cyrus, play a role in Jehovah's plan of restoration, the true servant of Isaiah 53 represents a figure of divine innocence and obedience, serving as a sacrifice for the sins of others. Understanding this, one can see the true nature of the divinity of Jehovah and the importance of faith in His son, Jesus Christ. This understanding is crucial not just for religious comprehension but for the foundational beliefs of many Western religions.