Fulfilled The Prophecy
Scripture: Matt 12:15-21 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)
15 But Jesus knew what they were planning. So he left that area, and many people followed him. He healed all the sick among them, 16 but he warned them not to reveal who he was. 17 This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah concerning him: 18 “Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. 20 He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. 21 And his name will be the hope of all the world.” (Matthew 12:15–21 NLT)
Jesus fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4 as he quietly and lovingly healed the sick, restored sight to the blind, confronted the self-righteous, and showed himself to be a friend of sinners. I’m going to read through Matthew’s version of the prophecy line by line. Will you join me in reading each line carefully, and will you ask the Holy Spirit what that line is saying to you today; about Jesus, about the Father, and about yourself? This will take a few minutes, but I promise, it won’t waste your time!
Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen… Jesus, I want to see you more clearly! Jesus, chosen by the Father. Father, I’m your servant. Thank you for choosing me, too!
He is my Beloved, who pleases me… Jesus, I believe you please the Father in everything. I purpose to live a life pleasing to you and to the Father.
I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations… Jesus, you said a key part of your mission is justice for the oppressed. (Luke 4:18-19) May my small voice proclaim justice as you do!
He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public… Jesus, you are not belligerent, or loud, or mocking, or condemning. You are gentle and humble and kind. I want to be like you!
He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle… Jesus, your words are comforting, empowering, and inspiring. May I speak words like yours.
His name will be the hope of all the world… Jesus, you give me hope! May I be a source of hope and encouragement to all I influence! For your Kingdom’s Sake. Amen.