But thou, Israel, my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend,
While the nations trusting in their idols are thrown into alarm before the eastern conqueror, Israel may take comfort: every word here breathes the deepest affection. The repetition of the suffixes gives the address a pressing, clinging, loving key-note, recalling the intimate relation Jehovah has established with His servant people.
AI summary
Commenting on Isaiah 41:8-10
Contrast between the idolatrous nations whom God will destroy by Cyrus, and Israel whom God will deliver by the same man for their forefathers' sake. servant--so termed as being chosen by God to worship Him themselves, and to lead other peoples to do the same (Isa 45:4). Jacob . . . chosen-- (Psa 135:4). my friend--literally, "loving me."
God opens His court and summons even the distant islands to testify. Silence falls while the case is tried between His kingdom and Satan's. The defenders of idolatry are invited to speak freely and stake all their strength against Him; but the cause of God fears no fair trial, and religion will surely carry the day.
AI summary
Commenting on Isaiah 41:1-9