In the rich fabric of biblical narratives, one title stands apart for its universal resonance and profound implications – that of the ‘Servant’. A significant mantle carried by distinguished personages such as Abraham, Moses (Ex. 14:31; Num. 12:7; Deut. 34:5; Josh. 1:1, 15; 8:21,22; 18:7), and the whole nation of Israel (Isa. 41:8-10; 44:21; 48:20; 49:3), it becomes uniquely insightful when conferred upon Jesus Christ. Isaiah, the prophetic poet of the Old Testament, states, “Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.” (Isa. 52:13). Through this perspective, we understand Jesus, not merely as a divine figure, but also as a humble servant. This paradox underlines the Christian ethos.

The mission of The Servant of God

This servant’s title isn’t a mere nominal designation but a purposeful attribution that elucidates Jesus’ mission. It starts with making known to humanity the immeasurable love of our heavenly Father (John 1:18; Matt. 11:27; 17:1-23), magnifying God’s law and making it honourable (Isa. 42:19-21; Ps. 40:6-8; Matt. 5:17-20), seeking and saving those who are lost (Matt. 18:11; Luke 19:10), and unifying humankind through heavenly harmony (Eph. 1:1-12; John 17:21-23).

The Attitude of The Servant

Jesus’ servitude is reflected in His mission and deeply ingrained in His attitudes and actions. He embraced humility and meekness, embodying the characteristics of a servant (Matt. 11:28-30; Phil. 2:6-11). His love for His Father drove His obedience (John 4:34; 6:38; Luke 22:42). He voluntarily sacrificed His heavenly comfort and earthly life to redeem sinners (Isa. 53:1-12), exemplifying an unparalleled selflessness that gave dignity to service, which had lost its essence to human selfishness. He came not to be ministered unto but to minister (Matt. 20:28) and left us with a shining example to emulate (Mark 9:34; Luke 9:46-48).

Isaiah’s four songs (Isa. 42:1-4; 49:1-6; 50:4-9; 52:13, and 53:12) beautifully depict the suffering servant, an essential aspect of Jesus’ life. His suffering adds depth and richness to His identity as a servant and gives us a lens to understand and appreciate His mission and attitude.

The Servant’s Faithful Accomplishment

Jesus’ servitude culminated in the successful completion of His earthly assignment. He wasted no time (John 9:4,5). He concluded His ministry with the triumphant proclamation, “It is finished” (John 19:30). His life and ministry, combined with His sacrifice, bestowed unprecedented dignity to serving God and humankind.

Implications for Today

In today’s context, Jesus has profound implications as the “Servant of God”. His life, exemplifying service and sacrifice, implores us not to live unto ourselves but unto God and His cause (Rom. 14:7; Gal. 2:20). The call to emulate His example leads us on the path of becoming servants ourselves (1 Pet. 2:16; Rom. 6:16, 17; Acts 1:8,9; 1 Pet. 2:9-11). He calls us to action with the words, “Follow me” (Matt. 11:28-30), leaving a template of selfless service for us to adhere to.

The term ‘faithful’ is a crucial component of the servant identity. Jesus embodies faithfulness (Rev. 1:5; 3:14; 19:11), prompting us to reflect on our own faithfulness as God’s servants (Matt. 25:31-42). Can we, like Paul, confidently state, “I have finished my course?” (2 Tim. 4:7,8)? Can heaven count on our loyalty and perseverance? These questions beckon us to introspect and measure our lives against the standard set by Jesus, the Servant of God.

The blessings from faithfully serving God and humanity are immense and eternal. While the title of the servant may appear humble and lowly, it takes on an exalted significance when viewed through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. His life encapsulates the essence of service, sacrifice, and unconditional love – an embodiment of the “Servant of God”.

In conclusion, the life of Jesus as the “Servant of God” provides a unique perspective on his life and ministry. It adds layers of depth and nuance to our understanding of His mission, attitudes, sacrifices, and ultimate triumph. Moreover, it offers a robust template for our lives, calling us to a higher standard of selfless service and faithful obedience. In truly understanding and embracing this concept, we step into a transformative journey from mere believers to faithful servants of God.