Small Group Questions | God’s Servant | Isaiah 42:1-9

This Spring Coastline Bible Church started preaching through the Old Testament book of Isaiah. The book of Isaiah is known as one of the three major prophets. The book starts with confrontation but ends with comfort. God is not impressed with Israel’s religious practices because their hearts are far from God. Israel has rebelled against God, forsaken Him, and turned their backs. Today we will see God confront their rebellion and invite them back into relationship with Him. Each week, we’ve created small group questions designed to help people reflect deeply, apply personally, and grow spiritually. I’m sharing those questions here so others can benefit; whether you’re leading a small group, studying on your own, or learning to pray these questions are for you. 

Small Group Questions | God’s Servant | Isaiah 42:1-9

In Isaiah 42 we are introduced to God’s Servant. He comes into a broken world to bring truth, justice, and salvation. He is not loud or forceful. He is gentle and faithful. He does not crush the weak. He restores them. This passage points us to Jesus, the One who brings light into darkness and life to those who trust Him. As you discuss the questions below, take time to reflect on where you need Jesus to meet you. Where do you need His truth? Where do you need His light? Who in your life needs to hear about Him? Ask God to help you trust Him more, turn from anything that competes for your heart, and walk in the freedom He offers.

1) John Perkins dedicated his life to fighting injustice and helping people experience healing in the Gospel in spite of his personal experience. When you hear the word justice, what comes to mind and where have you seen injustice in our world? 

2) Read Isaiah 42:1-4. God is pleased with His servant and teaches us about the character and nature of Jesus. What characteristic of Jesus stands out most to you in these verses? (see Matthew 12:18–21, Philippians 2:5–8  and John 13:3–5)

3) Verse three teaches us about the gentle nature of Jesus. Think back to a time in your life where you personally experienced the gentleness of Jesus. How did that impact you? (see: Psalm 34:18, Matthew 11:28–30, and Hebrews 4:15–16) 

4) Read Isaiah 42:5. This verse teaches us about what God accomplished in creation. When you look at creation where do you see at work? We never want to worship creation but we do worship God as creator. 

5) Read Isaiah 42:6-7. What does it mean that Jesus is “a light for the Gentiles”? Why is it important that the gospel is for all people, not just a select group? (see Acts 13:47, Luke 2:30–32, and Genesis 12:3) 

6) Isaiah describes people as blind, captive, and in darkness. Where do you see those realities in the world today? How has Jesus brought you from darkness into light?(see Colossians 1:13–14, John 1:4–5, and Ephesians 5:8)

7) Read Isaiah 42:8-9. What are some modern-day “idols” people turn to instead of God (success, comfort, control, approval, etc.)? What do you personally tend to run to when life gets hard? Exodus 20:3–4, Romans 1:21–25, and 1 John 5:21)

Close your time in prayer asking God show you how to trust Him fully.