Matthew Poole and continuators on Isaiah 42:6

6. I the LORD have called thee in righteousness , and will hold thine hand , and will keep thee , and give thee for a covenant of the people , for a light of the Gentiles ;

To declare my righteousness, as is said, Rom. 3. 26. or my faithfulness, which is frequently called Righteousness in Scripture, according to my promise long since made, and oft renewed. As the former verse asserted Gods Power, so this clause declares his will and firm purpose and obligation, to effect this work, and both together evince the certainty and necessity of it.

Will give thee counsel and strength for thine high and hard work.

That thou shalt not fail in, nor be hindred by thine enemies, from the accomplishment of thy work.

To be the Angel of the Covenant, as Christ is called Mal. 3. 1. or the Mediator in and by whom my Covenant of Grace is made, and confirmed with mankind.

Either of my People, the Iewes: Or, Indefinitely or universally, of all People, not onely Iews but Gentiles also, as it follows.

To enlighten them with true and saving knowledge, and to direct them in the right way to true happiness, from which they had miserably wandred. He alludes to Gods fiery Pillar, which enlightned and directed the Israelites in the Wilderness.

Marginal references: Chap. 49. 8.; Chap. 49. 6. Luk. 2. 32. Act. 13. 47.