1. Matthew 12:15-21

2.  We find a prophecy of Jesus as the Chosen Servant of Yahweh in Matthew 12:15-21.  Matthew uses “Biblical Precedent” in the text—i.e., he uses the Old Testament Scriptures simply to declare that Jesus is the Jewish Messiah.

3. ORIGINAL PROPHECY

4.  The original prophecy is found in Isaiah 42:1-4.  This is in a lengthy section where we find many prophecies of the “Servant.”  It’s not always clear who the “Servant” is.  Obviously, the “Servant” often refers to Jesus, and it’s difficult for me not to read Jesus when I read “Servant.”  However, “Servant” occasionally refers to the nation of Israel as a whole.

5.  In this passage, there are many who see “Servant” as the nation of Israel in Babylon.  That could conceivably have some validity.  The nation would bring forth justice to the Gentiles by showing great character (e.g., Daniel and his companions)—In v 6, “A light to the Gentiles.”  It’s obvious that these words find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.  Verses 6 & 7 are too close to Isaiah 61:1-3 & Luke 4:18-19 for this prophecy not to have ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.

6. PROPHECY AND JESUS

7.  Matthew 12:15-21.  Again, notice that Jesus healed all those who came to Him.  But, He warned those He healed not to make Him known.  He warned others not to make Him known that it might be fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah (v 17).  How did Jesus’ instruction fulfill the words of Isaiah?  Why would Jesus not want these folks to make Him known?

8.  God refers to Jesus as “My Servant” (v 18).  How was Jesus the servant of God?  Does verse 18 not sound much like Jesus’ baptism?  “My Beloved” and “I will put My Spirit upon Him.”  I can’t help but wonder if there isn’t a direct correlation between this original prophecy and Jesus’ baptism.  Why would Jesus not quarrel nor cry out?

9.  No one would hear His voice in the streets.  How would no one hear His voice?  Didn’t He come in order to teach people? (Mk 1:38).  What do you make of verse 20?  In His name Gentiles will trust.  Again, we find in Matthew a mention of Jesus’ ministry to the Gentiles.  How would Gentiles trust in His name?