Both Jesus and the Servant face scorn and suffering with the help of God. The Servant has had his ear opened in a receptive posture to receive the word, which he will pass on to sustain the weary. The Servant accepts abuse without retaliation because he is sustained by God.

We see Jesus hold a similar servant-like posture. Perhaps the servant song inspires Jesus to teach his followers to maintain their serenity in the face of oppression. Jesus teaches the practice of turning the other cheek (see Matthew 5:38-42) in the same way the servant turned both cheeks to those who insulted him. Jesus instructs his followers to go beyond retributive justice, beyond an eye for an eye, by refusing to take any violent action. If an enemy “demands your shirt,” says Jesus, “give your coat as well” (Matt. 5:40, ap). Imagine that scene: Doesn’t the act of going beyond what is required make the oppressor look a little foolish?

The posture of Jesus and the Servant was the spiritual basis for Martin Luther King Jr.’s teaching of nonviolent resistance during the US Civil Rights movement. King and the leaders of the movement taught that love is stronger than hate. Their witness of dignity in the face of hatred inspired more people to join the movement despite beatings, imprisonment, and bombings. Their courage sustained the weary.

When Jesus is tested, scorned, and abused, he does not respond in anger. Instead he relies on faith in God. Like the Suffering Servant, Christ has the confidence in his vindication; he knows that he will be redeemed—and his redemption is ours.