Matthew 12:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Isaiah's prophecy presents God's chosen, beloved Servant, anointed by the Spirit to bring justice to the nations.
What Does Matthew 12:18 Mean?
Here is the prophet's portrait of the Servant: chosen by God, beloved, the delight of God's heart, filled with God's Spirit, sent to bring justice and truth to the nations. The words echo what was heard at Jesus' baptism, when the voice from heaven named him the beloved Son and the Spirit descended upon him.
The promise reaches beyond Israel to the Gentiles, foretelling a salvation for all peoples. The Servant rules not by force but by the Spirit who rests upon him. In Jesus the prophecy stands fulfilled: he is the chosen and beloved of God, anointed to carry God's justice and mercy to the ends of the earth, gathering people of every nation into the kingdom.
Matthew 12:18 in the Original Language
pais (παῖς), 'servant' -- a servant or beloved child, here the chosen Servant of the LORD foretold by Isaiah.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 12:18
What does Matthew 12:18 mean?
Isaiah's prophecy presents God's chosen, beloved Servant, anointed by the Spirit to bring justice to the nations.