The Savior Fulfills the Word

Matthew 12:17-21 This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. 19 He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. 20 A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. 21 In his name the nations will put their hope.”

MATTHEW wrote his Gospel to demonstrate that Jesus is the promised Messiah foretold by the prophets. He often emphasized some facts of Jesus’ life, particularly his miracles, with the affirmation, “This was to fulfill what was spoken.” In this passage Matthew pointed specifically to Isaiah 42:1-4. In essence, Matthew wanted the Jews to know, “Here is what Isaiah said. Know he spoke about Jesus of Nazareth.”

Matthew, one of Jesus’ close disciples, had witnessed Isaiah’s prophecies become absolute truth. Matthew often saw Jesus heal. Matthew personally knew Jesus forgave people because Jesus had forgiven him! Matthew had heard Jesus speak tender mercy and love toward people who lived under great political and religious oppression.

Matthew had also watched the gentle Savior care for bruised reeds and smoldering wicks – people in their suffering – without breaking or extinguishing them. Isaiah 53 is also a powerful summary of the coming Messiah’s servant life, great suffering and eternal triumph.

Matthew, too, had witnessed the Holy Spirit empower Jesus to great miracles, including Jesus’ stunning resurrection and triumphant ascension. Indeed, Matthew was completely convinced God’s Son had come. Matthew was Jesus’ eyewitness. He wanted his people – God’s people – to know.

We have the same evidence as Matthew. When we see the evidence of Jesus in our lives, we can be eyewitnesses, too.

Jesus Teaches: Know the Scriptures, so you can witness for Jesus.