Isaiah 42

1. Behold My Servant, etc. The “Servant of Jehovah” is a phrase denoting Israel in its ideal character, as chosen by Himself, to execute His commission, and to show forth His praise. This character, in its perfection, belongs to the Son of God alone. Hence the present passage is quoted in Matt. xii. 18-21, with direct application to our Lord.

3 the smoking flax. Or, “dimly burning wick” (R.V. marg.).

He shall bring forth judgement unto truth (“in truth,” R.V.). That is, He shall fully vindicate His righteous cause: comp. Matt. xii. 20.

4. He shall not fail. The words just applied to the wick and the reed are here emphatically repeated: “He shall not be dimmed nor be bruised.” Gentle as he is, he is not feeble.

6 have called thee in righteousness. Addressed to the “Servant of Jehovah,” called to accomplish God’s righteous purposes.

8. I am the Lord. “I am the Eternal”: see note on Exod. iii. 14.

10 a new song. See note on Psa. xvi. 1. The “new things” (v. 9) furnish material for a “new song.”

11. The villages that Kedar doth inhabit. See note on xxi. 17.

the inhabitants of the rock. Or, perhaps, “of Sela,” the stronghold of Edom: see note on 2 Kings xiv. 7.

13. He shall stir up, etc. Rather, “like a warrior He will rouse His zeal.”

14. I will destroy and devour. Or, “I will gasp and pant at once”: see R.V. Expressing solitary yearning and effort (G. A. Smith).

18. A new aspect of the subject is here presented. Israel’s blindness and sin (18-20) are adduced, to show that God’s great work of salvation is altogether undeserved, and intended to display His righteousness and to honour His word (21).

19 as he that is perfect. R.V., “at peace with Me”: i.e., My covenanted friend.

21. The Lord is well pleased for His righteousness’ sake, etc. Rather, as R.V., “It pleased the Lord, for His righteousness’ sake, to magnify the law and make it honourable” (or, to make the teaching great and glorious). “But,” etc. That is, their present condition is in melancholy contrast with their high privilege, as the possessors of such a revelation.