Isaiah 49-53

A promise to restore. A promise that there is one who will be God’s ideal Servant. Restoration comes with uncertainty. But God promises that when restoration comes there will not be pressure from enemies (52:12). It is the promise of the Suffering Servant that encourages. This Servant is not appealing physically. This Servant is not powerful and yet kings will bow to Him. This Servant will die so that the sins of the people are forgiven. This Servant will suffer quietly. This Servant will fulfill the intent of God fully and completely. How did Jerusalem understand this prophecy? Along with many other prophecies, this prophecy became the basis for their belief in the Messiah — the one chosen by God to do God’s will and to set the people free. We know this Servant as Jesus and we know this Servant as our Savior. Jerusalem waited in anticipation for this Servant. We have seen this Servant and know that God fulfills his promise.