Verses 1-9 form the first of four “Servant songs” in Isaiah (see also Isaiah 49 v1-7; 50 v4-9 and 52v13-53 v12). Sometimes the servant appears to be the nation of Israel, at other times the servants appears to be a person who rescues Israel.

In this first servant song we have verses which clearly apply to Jesus. This reminds us that hope for God’s people, whether Old Testament, New Testament or today, is always to be found in Jesus Christ the Servant King. Our hope in every situation of life, is to be found by turning to Jesus.

We’re reminded some wonderful things here about Jesus. God the Father delights in Jesus His Son (v1). All the Father sees in His Son is absolute perfection. Next, we’re told of the Spirit being put upon Him (v1b). This speaks of how in His human nature Jesus needed the power of the Spirit to equip Him for His ministry. The same Spirit comes upon believers today to equip us.

This glorious servant will bring justice (or righteousness) to the nations (v1c). Jesus has come not just for Israel but to bring salvation and righteousness to people from all nations.

We’re told then of Jesus’ wonderfully gentle and caring nature (v2-3). Jesus knows how to deal tenderly with the fragile and struggling. This includes opening the eyes of the blind and freeing the prisoners (v7).

Finally, we see the perseverance of this Servant Son (v4). He will not give up, He will not fail, he will complete His mission of salvation. In such a Christ, hope that is certain, is to be found.