42:1 servant. See note 20:3. The servant imagery is fulfilled in Jesus (Matt. 12:15–21) and is also applicable to Israel (41:8 note) before His coming, and to the church later (1 Pet. 2:21–25). Israel as “Servant” includes only the faithful, not the unfaithful Israel (vv. 18–22).

uphold. See note 41:10.

chosen. See note 14:1.

delights. The Servant pleases God and is an object of His love and favor (60:10; 62:4; Matt. 3:17; Mark 1:11; Luke 9:35).

justice to the nations. God institutes His universal kingdom of justice and righteousness. “Justice” is emphatically repeated three times in vv. 1–4.