Bible Studies for Life: September 7

The Greatest Name • Isaiah 42:1-12

By Melody Mercer

He’s the G.O.A.T.!  It seems everywhere we look today we see this acronym, especially with sports.  Football starts up this weekend, and I, for one, cannot wait.  It might be Drew Brees, Bear Bryant, or Tom Brady, but everyone has his or her opinion of who is the greatest.     

This fall, we’ll be looking at six truths that are The Greatest of All Time. We start with The Greatest Name, which can only be that of Jehovah God. 

Isaiah 42:1-4

God introduces us to the servant, His chosen one, who is Jesus. God’s name is glorified through Jesus.  The scripture tells us that “he will bring justice” to the nations (v. 1 CSB). God’s plan of redemption from the Garden of Eden was always Jesus. The passage continues to describe the servant as one who “will not cry out or shout or make his voice heard in the streets” (v. 2 CSB).

Growing up, I remember hearing pastors say that Jesus was a gentleman. He was never going to force anyone to follow Him. When I first read this scripture, that’s what came to mind. But as I read further, I saw humbleness. Jesus is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. A lamb isn’t going to argue or scream as it’s being taken away. Jesus didn’t either (Isaiah 53:7). He gave up His life willingly because He loved each one of us that much. Jesus knew what He had to do, and He did it. 

The servant is further described as one who will not break a “bruised reed” or “put out a smoldering wick” (v. 3 CSB). This is indeed showing the compassion Jesus has on His children. I don’t know about you, but so many times I am bruised and feel like my flame is just about to go out. It doesn’t matter how many times God shows His faithfulness to us, sometimes that doubt just creeps in. When we are weak and discouraged, Jesus is our lifeline. Verse 4 reminds us that Jesus will bring justice to all the nations, the world, and the earth. 

Isaiah 42:5-8

There’s not much argument for self-centeredness in these next passages. Our human nature wants to be selfish and say, “I’ll do what I want to.” Who is God to want my time or love? Well… He’s everything! God is the creator of the universe, and He can ask of us anything He wants. Our entire purpose for living is to praise Him.  He has a divine purpose for each and every one of us. 

In verse 6, He tells us “I will hold you by your hand” (CSB). That is exactly where I want to be, holding on to God’s hand. I want to be right in the middle of His will. Just as God made a covenant with Abraham, He has made a covenant with us. Jesus Christ is that new covenant. I love the last verse of this passage, “I am the Lord. That is my name, and I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols” (v. 8 CSB). It’s ridiculous to think of God giving any glory or praise to anyone or anything other than himself. Unfortunately, so often, the Israelites found themselves doing this very thing.  

Isaiah 42:9-12

I have never done a complete study of the names of God, but I know the ones that are at the forefront of my life. Jehovah Jireh, He is my provider (Gen. 22:14). Jehovah Rapha, He is my healer (Exodus 15:26). Jehovah Shalom, He is my peace (Judges 6:24). When you are walking with God and trusting Him through sickness, hardships, and total life changes that you never saw happening, these names of God take on a whole new meaning. You can talk about them all day, but when you live them, it’s a whole new perspective.

The song “Holy Forever” says: “Your name is the highest, your name is the greatest, your name stands above them all. All thrones and dominions, all powers and positions, your name stands above them all.” The name of Jehovah God is above everything and everyone. God’s name deserves glory from all people. Let’s not take it lightly.  

Mercer is a member of First Church, Jackson.