Isaiah 52-55
Today we get the last of Isaiah’s four “Servant Songs” in Isaiah 52:13-53:12. In case one look at the Cross is not enough to convince us that Jesus is the fulfillment of this “Song”, the New Testament writers practically spell it out for us. Here are several obvious direct references to this “Song”:
- Isaiah 52:15 — Romans 15:21
- Isaiah 53:1 — John 12:37-38; Romans 10:16
- Isaiah 53:4 — Matthew 8:17
- Isaiah 53:5 — I Peter 2:24
- Isaiah 53:6 — I Peter 2:25
- Isaiah 53:7 — Acts 8:32
- Isaiah 53:9 — I Peter 2:22
And there are plenty more New Testament passages that reflect the idea that the Christ must suffer and that His suffering atones for our sins and iniquities, just as this “Song” says.
So take some time today and meditate on this Suffering Servant. Ponder Who He is, His characteristics, His actions on our behalf, His undeserved suffering, His affliction. Consider that it is our sorrows and griefs with which He is acquainted. Recognize that it is for our iniquities that He is scourged, it is our sin He bears on His Cross, and it is in that awful Reality that we find peace and healing.
He was pierced for our transgressions;
Isaiah 53:5
He was crushed for our iniquities;
upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace,
and with His wounds we are healed.