Wednesday 16 October 2013
- Bible Book:
- Matthew
"Here is my servant, whom I have chosen, my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not wrangle or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets. He will not break a bruised reed or quench a smouldering wick until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope". (vv. 18-21)
Background
Matthew's longest Old Testament quotation is introduced here toemphasise the contrast between the violent opposition of thePharisees (in the preceding verses) and the gentleness of theLord's Servant portrayed in
Here we read of Jesus' role as a humble servant - one who will notcrush the helpless. The character of this servant is one ofmeekness and gentleness. In verse 18 it reinforces Matthew'saccount of Jesus' baptism where we hear the voice of God: "… mybeloved, with whom my soul is well pleased".
The weak and the vulnerable (the smouldering wick is one in dangerof going out altogether) have a special place in being led tovictory and finding justice. In verse 21 the, "Gentiles will hope"indicates that the mission of the servant is universal incharacter. All are welcome.
To Ponder
- The character of Jesus as servant is one of seeking justice,not self proclamation. In what ways do we as his servants seekjustice for others?
- On what occasions have you behaved like the Pharisees? What doyou think Jesus's response would have been?
- How far do you serve with humility and gentleness?