Isaiah 42:21
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 42:21
21 The LORD is well pleased for his righteousness' sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 42 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, righteousness, judgment. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 42:21
21 The LORD is well pleased for his righteousness' sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable.
Analysis
Despite Israel's failure, 'the LORD is well pleased for his righteousness' sake'—His own righteousness, not theirs. He will 'magnify the law, and make it honourable' through His purposes. The Hebrew 'gadal' (magnify) suggests exalting and displaying the law's perfection, ultimately through Christ who fulfills it.
Historical Context
God's commitment to magnify His law meant that despite Israel's failure, He would uphold its requirements through Messiah's perfect obedience and substitutionary death, demonstrating both justice and mercy.
Reflection
- How does God's commitment to His own righteousness ensure salvation despite your failures?
- What does it mean that Christ magnified the law by perfectly keeping and fulfilling it?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Word: Isaiah 42:4, Psalms 40:8, Romans 3:31, Hebrews 8:10
- Righteousness: Psalms 71:16, 71:19, Matthew 3:15, Romans 7:12, 10:4
- Parallel theme: Matthew 17:5