"A Time of Goodwill," Chapter Ten

ALL faithful humans have long enjoyed God's approval and protection.  But Jehovah does not extend his goodwill indiscriminately.  A person must qualify  for such an incomparable blessing.  Isaiah was one who did.  He enjoyed God's favor and was used by Jehovah as an instrument to make known His will to others. An example of this is recorded in the first half of chapter 49 of Isaiah's prophecy.

These words are prophetically addressed to the seed of Abraham.  In the initial fulfillment, that seed is the nation of Israel, which descended from Abraham.  However, must of the language clearly applies to the long-hoped-for Seed of Abraham, the promised  Messiah.  The inspired  words also apply to the spiritual brothers of the Messiah who become part of the spiritual seed of Abraham and of  "the Israel of God."  (Galatians 3:7, 16, 29; 6:16)  In particular, this portion of Isaiah's prophecy describes the special relationship that exists between Jehovah and his beloved Son, Jesus Christ. -Isaiah 49:26.

Next time: Appointed and Protected by Jehovah, Chapter Ten

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, Volume II, 2001