Lesson 1 of 6 · Isaiah 52:13–53:12
Overview: The Making of a Godly Leader
Isaiah’s fourth Servant Song gives an unusually detailed portrait of the Servant’s suffering, faithfulness, saving work, and glory. This overview introduces the structure of Isaiah 52:13–53:12 and the course’s three broad characteristics of a godly leader: he accepts God’s design for his life, endures hardships, and embraces God’s greater purpose in hardship.
Lesson Resources
Video Lesson
Required Reading
Read pages 13–24 in The Making of a Godly Leader: Isaiah 53, The Fourth Servant Song. The free PDF and EPUB links are provided in your official enrollment welcome.
Also complete the short Servant-identity reading below.
Additional Lesson 1 Reading
Required short reading: Who Is the Servant? A Short Guide to the Servant’s Identity in Isaiah 52:13–53:12. This condensed course reading summarizes the main historical interpretations and the reasons this course identifies the Servant with Jesus the Messiah.
For Reflection
Optional — use these questions for personal reflection or discussion. They are not required for course completion.
- Which of the three movements—accepts, endures, or embraces—most directly challenges you right now, and why?
- How does fixing your eyes on the Servant change the way you interpret hardship in life or ministry?
- What past test has most shaped your understanding of God’s leadership in your life?
Lesson 1 Quiz
Answer all 7 questions. A score of 6/7 passes. Everyone may check answers and retake the full quiz. Only results from your private My Progress link are recorded toward the course certificate.
Lesson Completion
Your private course record requires the video, assigned reading, and a passing quiz score.