Isaiah 53:5-6
But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities;
upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. 
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way;
and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Application:

The suffering servant experienced sorrow and fully identified with humanity. He lived as a man among men. This description is particularly relevant for understanding the nature and mission of Jesus Christ. He faced rejection from both the religious leaders and the people. While Jesus distinguished himself through his miracles, he was ultimately forsaken by mankind.

The rejection of the servant is portrayed more vividly: he was “stricken,” “smitten,” and “afflicted” (53:4–6). He bore the very curse of God. Since God’s curse falls on anyone who breaks his covenant, the servant was either a significant sinner or bore the sins of others. In addition to the language of the covenant curses, he is depicted as one who was “pierced” (“wounded”), “crushed,” and “punished” (v. 5). He suffered to bring restoration (“peace” and “healing”) between God and humanity.

The servant suffered not for himself but rather to bear “our sorrows,” “our transgressions,” and “our iniquities” (vv. 4–5). The benefits of the servant’s vicarious suffering include reconciliation with God and forgiveness. He carried the sins and guilt of the people; thus, He brought God’s people back into fellowship with their heavenly Father. All of mankind has gone astray, yet through the servant’s suffering, there remains the possibility for peace and healing. Jesus Christ gave Himself so that He could be our peace, and through Him, we could experience healing and a restoration of fellowship with the heavenly Father.

Ref: Willem A. VanGemeren, “Isaiah,” in Evangelical Commentary on the Bible, vol. 3, Baker Reference Library (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1995), 507.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write or post articles that glorify God. I invite you to view this post as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, I encourage you to search the Scriptures to determine whether what I have posted is true. Always consult your church ministers regarding biblical matters. I am not a professional writer, so there may be grammatical or spelling errors. I strive to write as clearly and efficiently as possible. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo.

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