In this sermon, Stephen explores Isaiah chapter 42, emphasizing the profound role of Jesus Christ as the Servant of the Lord. He highlights that the second half of Isaiah (chapters 40-66) centers on God's salvation, which is ultimately embodied in Christ Himself, the true Servant. Stephen explains that Christ, though the Son of God, took on the form of a servant, fulfilling God's purpose with humility and obedience, as seen in Philippians 2. The Servant is described as one upon whom God's Spirit rests, equipped to bring judgment and justice to the nations, not through force or noise, but through quiet persistence and gentleness, exemplified by Christ’s ministry. Stephen stresses that Christ’s work involves restoring the broken and oppressed with patience and compassion, never fainting or rushing. He also discusses the importance of believers responding to God's election with full commitment, mirroring Christ’s surrender, especially in His baptism where God declared, "In whom I am well pleased." The Holy Spirit is essential for service, empowering believers to fulfill God's purpose. Stephen concludes by urging believers to be blind and deaf to worldly distractions, focusing solely on God's voice, and to serve in humility, following Christ’s example, so that God's kingdom and righteousness may be established on earth.
19 Who is blind, but my servant? or deaf, as my messenger that I sent? who is blind as he that is perfect, and blind as the LORD’S servant? 20 Seeing many things, but thou observest not; opening the ears, but he heareth not. 21 The LORD is well pleased for his righteousness’ sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable.
1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. 2 He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. 3 A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. 4 He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.