Isaiah study & commentary

Isaiah 53:1-6

The chapter starts with a rhetorical question about consistent message offered by the prophets of redemption and salvation.  Many prophets, one message; who listened?  Who was listening then?  Not many, life was too good.  They were not under attack, not feeling any immediate need.  The arm of the Lord is His strength and power of God; His arm has been shown mighty over and over to Israel. 

The suffering servant shall grow up a tender plant; we know Him as a bud from the stump of Jesse.  The idea of a shoot or a branch shows up in other places and points to one who brings about the will of the Lord.  He won't look like a king, appearing majestic or supernatural.  He won't appear special in any way.  No one will be drawn to Him just by His beauty or status.  The betrayal and rejection of those who followed Him is a picture of the 'despised and rejected'.  They left Him in the grasp of those who would murder Him.  The multitudes were gone, He was alone with His enemies.

He knew what it was to feel pain and anguish.  It's as if all of Israel looked away while He suffered.  He bore the sins of mankind.  He didn't just heal the pain but He carried it.  It's as though He were struck down by God Himself.  The wounds He suffered were for us; each bruise was for our redemption.  He who knew no sin was made sin for us that we might be made righteous in Him.  A chastisement was due before we had peace with God; this was paid by Jesus. 

Isaiah 53:7-9

The burden of the sin of mankind crushed down on Him and caused Him horrible pain.  Yet, He remained silent.  He did this out of obedience and love.  He was alike a dumb lamb led to slaughter.  He was dealt with unjustly but said nothing.  He is cut off and no one will declare His generation; as if He were led away to exile like they would be.  This death came about because of transgressions.  He would die as one deserving it, as if he were a robber or murderer.  Yet, His grave would be more of that of a rich man because He had not done any violence or deceit. 

Isaiah 53:10-11

The death of this servant is no surprise, in fact it is part of the plan.  The Lord brought this about, it was God's pleasure to see this completed.  It was a gift to show His love for His children.  His soul would be an offering for their sin.  Yet, God will see the servant and prolong His days.  This is a clear indication of the resurrection.  God will work through the hands of the servant, His plan completed.  Salvation will be extended to all and this would satisfy the Lord.  Many will be justified, and many have been.  The servant bore their iniquities. 

Isaiah 53:12

Therefore!  The portion is the inheritance of the firstborn.  Jesus is the firstborn of the dead with many to follow.  He is the firstfruits of many fruits that would follow.  In the declaration 'It is finished' a great battle had been won.  Death was defeated, sin overcome and the spoil of this victory were the souls of those who would trust and believe that did, in fact, live a perfect life, was crucified, died, was buried and rose again on the third day making intercession for mankind.

©2018 Doug Ford