Isaiah 42:4
He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.
Isaiah 42:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Isaiah speaks about the promise of the Messiah, who is described as someone who will not fail or be discouraged until justice is established on earth. This verse is a prophecy about Jesus Christ, who came to bring salvation and judgment to the world. The phrase "the isles shall wait for his law" refers to the Gentiles, who will eagerly anticipate and accept his teachings. This verse highlights the unwavering determination and divine purpose of Jesus to bring about righteousness and establish his kingdom on earth. It speaks to the hope and trust that believers can have in the ultimate victory of the Messiah over sin and evil. As Christians, we can take comfort in the fact that Jesus will not be deterred in his mission to bring about justice and salvation for all who believe in him.
Theological Overview
When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law," we can understand it as a proclamation of the unwavering determination and sovereignty of God. This verse speaks to the promise that God will not falter or grow weary until justice is established on the earth. The idea of setting judgment in the earth signifies God's ultimate plan for righteousness and justice prevailing in all corners of the world. The mention of the isles waiting for his law suggests that all nations, no matter how distant or remote, will ultimately come under the guidance and governance of God's law. This can be seen as a prophetic declaration of the universal reign of God's justice and righteousness. Overall, this verse underscores the unshakable resolve of God to bring about his ultimate purposes and establish his kingdom on earth.
Isaiah 42:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
He will not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set justice in the earth; and the isles shall wait for his law.
World English Bible
He will not fail nor be discouraged, until he has set justice in the earth, and the islands will wait for his law.”
Douay-Rheims
He shall not be sad, nor troublesome, till he set judgment in the earth, and the islands shall wait for his law.
Geneva Bible (1599)
He shall not faile nor be discouraged till he haue set iudgement in the earth: and the yles shall waite for his lawe.