Isaiah 52:13 – 66:18
Overview
We complete the reading of Isaiah today. In chapters 52 – 66, God is speaking through Isaiah the prophet to tell his people about their time after they return from exile. Several different times he speaks about issues with the community, the rebuilding of the city wall and the temple. He also takes time to encourage the leaders to make sure to uphold justice as God’s law states. Isaiah proclaims the revelation that God will rebuild Jerusalem after the exile and His name will be given the glory throughout the nations. One chapter in today’s reading is very well known. Isaiah 53 describes the suffering of the servant (Jesus).
Scripture Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.
Observation
Isaiah is prophesying about the coming Messiah. Our Savior will be pierced for our transgressions. Jesus flesh was pierced by nails that were driven through his body as He was nailed to the cross because he was paying the penalty of our sin. He was crushed for our wicked inability to remain holy people because our hearts follow our desires, not His. Jesus Christ is the perfect Lamb of God that has saved us from our sin. His work on the cross brings us into a relationship with God we never had before.
Application
What do we have to offer to God that He already hasn’t given us? How can we repay Him for the ultimate sacrifice that He made on our behalf? We have nothing and we can’t repay Him except by giving our lives over to Him. God knows the good, the bad and the ugly about us He still loves us. He knows our hearts, desires and motivations yet He still loves us. We disobey, dishonor and turn away from Him and He still loves us. Oh, how He love us…….
Romans 5:8 – But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
Prayer
Thank you God that you love me. Your Holy Word is a comfort and a shelter to me. You are awesome God.
