Scripture References: Matthew 12:15-21; Isaiah 42:1-4; Isaiah 53; Revelation 11:17-18

Intro: (Includes brief intro from missionary Jeff Dixon). Welcome to this sermon focusing on Matthew 12:15-21. After Jesus faces opposition, He withdraws and commands silence—puzzling actions for a Messiah. Matthew inserts a long quote from Isaiah 42 to explain the unexpected nature of Jesus' ministry.

Key Points:

1. A Messiah Who Withdraws?: Unlike expectations of a conquering king, Jesus retreats and quiets publicity. Matthew uses Isaiah 42 to show this aligns with prophecy, pointing toward Jesus' ultimate, misunderstood mission: the path of suffering and the cross. His quiet approach protected His divine timeline.
2. The Mission: Justice (Isaiah 42:1-4): Isaiah prophesies the Messiah will bring justice to the nations. This encompasses God's desire for wholeness – addressing societal evils (racism, poverty, trafficking) and individual sin. Jesus embodies God's heart for justice (Isa 61:8), often working through seemingly weak or surprising means.
3. The Method: Suffering (Isaiah's Servant Songs): Isaiah 42 hints at suffering ("not cry out" in pain). Later Servant Songs (Isa 49, 50, 53) clearly reveal the Messiah would suffer rejection, be beaten, pierced, and crushed for our sins. Jesus first dealt with the root injustice (our sin) through His sacrifice before He establishes His final, perfectly just kingdom.
4. The Character: Gentle Compassion (Isaiah 42:3): The Messiah is gentle ("bruised reed he will not break, smoldering wick he will not quench"). Jesus handles the weak, broken, and failing with tender care. His mercy is greater than our sin, offering forgiveness and restoration to all who turn to Him (including those struggling with deep issues like addiction or abortion).
5. The Future: Returning Warrior (Isaiah 42:10-14): The same prophecy shifts! The Messiah who came quietly like a Lamb will return shouting like a Warrior to execute final justice and establish His reign fully (Rev 11:17-18). Both the gentle Servant and the returning King are vital aspects of the Gospel message.

Conclusion: Jesus perfectly fulfills Isaiah's complex prophecy: the gentle, suffering Servant who brings justice through sacrifice in His first coming, and the powerful King who will return to make all things right. Understanding both aspects gives us a complete picture of our Savior and solid hope.

Call to Action: Do you know this Jesus in His fullness—the merciful Savior and the coming King? If not, embrace Him today. If you are burdened by sin or past wounds, run to the One whose mercy is infinite and whose power can make you whole. Live in the hope of His finished work and His promised return.

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The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & Justice (Matthew 12:15-21)
with Glenn Power

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