The Character and Calling of the Servant

Rev. Kent Compton begins a summer series on the servant songs of Isaiah, focusing on Isaiah 42:1-4. He notes that Isaiah is often a challenging book to read, but encourages perseverance and the use of study tools. The sermon introduces the Servant of the Lord as one chosen and upheld by God, in whom God's soul delights. This Servant, filled with God's Spirit, will bring justice to the nations without crying out or raising his voice. He will not break a bruised reed or quench a dimly burning wick, indicating a gentle yet firm approach to establishing truth.

Compton highlights the Servant's steadfastness; he will not grow faint or be discouraged until he has established justice on earth. The coastlands, representing distant nations, will wait for his law. This promise, initially given to Israel, ultimately points to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies these characteristics. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus, unlike worldly leaders, did not seek self-promotion but humbled himself. His mission was to bring light to the Gentiles and free those imprisoned by darkness.

The sermon concludes by encouraging believers to imitate this self-emptying spirit of Jesus. Just as Jesus came to bring justice and hope to the broken, Christians are called to participate in this agenda, bringing the good news of the gospel and God's law to a world that is waiting to hear it. The message underscores that for believers to be effective in God's kingdom, "He must increase, I must decrease," echoing John the Baptist's words