What does Matthew 12:19 mean?
Matthew is quoting a version of Isaiah 42 and applying it to Jesus. The original passage was, it would seem, written about Israel. Under the inspiration of the Spirit, though, Matthew shows how Jesus has fulfilled the prophecy. Jesus is sometimes called the perfect Israel or the ultimate Israel. He is the best and fullest example of God's chosen people.The passage in Isaiah is describing this servant with whom God is pleased and on whom the Father has placed His Spirit (Isaiah 42:1–3). The servant's work will eventually be to proclaim justice to those who are not Israel, the Gentile nations.
Now Isaiah adds that the servant will not quarrel or cry out. Nobody will hear His voice in the streets. In other words, the servant is gentle and humble, not putting effort into calling attention to Himself. This was true of Jesus, as well. He taught publicly and He healed many people, but He avoided conflict with His enemies when it was prudent (Matthew 12:15) and warned His followers not to publicize His miracles (Matthew 12:16). Still, the crowds grew. Jesus did not have to engage in self-promotion to draw people to His words and deeds.
Matthew 12:15–21 shows Jesus withdrawing away from the Pharisees, who want to destroy Him. The crowds persist in following Him, though, and He continues to tell those He heals not to make Him known. Matthew declares that Jesus is the fulfillment of Isaiah 42:1–4. Isaiah quotes God referring to His promised servant using the same terminology God used of Jesus at His baptism. This servant is gentle, refusing to call attention to Himself, but is also the One who will bring justice to victory and in whom the Gentiles will hope.
Matthew 12 features confrontations between the Pharisees and Jesus over several issues. Among these are working on the Sabbath, healing on the Sabbath, and the source of His power to cast out demons. Jesus counters each argument and rebukes the Pharisees sharply for their obstinate unbelief. He even notes that those who maliciously ascribe His miracles to demons are unforgivable. He warns them, and the rest of their current generation, about the judgment to come. Jesus calls the Pharisees a brood of vipers and rejects their demand for another miracle. All they'll be promised is the sign of Jonah. The Son of Man will be in the heart of the earth for three days. Jesus also states that all who do His Father's will are His family.
