Because of the great guilt of the people of God and their lack of responsiveness, Yahweh has justly exiled them (50:1–3). In the past he called them tenderly, but there was no response. He has the power to avert the exile, as seen in the plagues on Egypt, but he acts freely, deciding to let it happen. Yet, even though he sent them away, he has not divorced or sold Israel to the creditors. Who is this obedient and suffering servant (50:4–9)? Since his suffering is not unto death and he seems to be untouched by the rejection of humanity, the servant is probably the prophet himself. The prophet, in pursuit of his prophetic m…