Jacob touches Locke's life at a critical moment -- after his fall, Jacob is there. But Jacob never speaks to Locke the way he speaks to others. Locke spends the series believing the Island chose him, when Jacob actually chose the candidates carefully and Locke wasn't among the final protectors. The Man in Black exploits Locke's faith by wearing his face. The deepest irony: Locke dies for an Island whose guardian never told him he was special. Yet his faith was right -- the Island WAS worth protecting. Jacob just let someone else be the one to save it.

1. S1E4
   Walkabout

   Locke's legs work on the Island. He takes this as a divine sign.

2. S3E12
   The Man Behind the Curtain

   Locke visits Jacob's cabin. Hears "Help me." Is it Jacob? Or the Man in Black?

3. S5E14
   The Life and Death of Jeremy Bentham

   Locke dies never having spoken to Jacob. His faith was unrequited.

Season 1: Locke believes the Island healed him for a reason. Seasons 2-3: his faith is tested but never breaks. Season 4: leaves the Island on a mission. Season 5: dies believing he's serving the Island's purpose. Season 6: Jacob's plan is revealed -- and Locke wasn't the chosen protector. He was the sacrifice.