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. If you do not pass, retake the full quiz; your best score is retained.
Lesson Completion
Your private course record requires the video, assigned reading, and a passing quiz score.