Meditations on Isaiah 53 (Part-2)

Let me first say this! The GOOD NEWS in Isaiah 53 is to be read together with John 12 and Romans 10 and see everything in the right perspective. In John 11, Lazarus is raised from the dead. In John 12, Jesus talks of his own death and resurrection. Similarly, in Romans 10 there are many quotes from Isaiah when Paul explains our salvation in Christ Jesus through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus.

In Isaiah 53, we see Jesus as God’s Righteous Servant, the Messiah, the Sin-Bearer, Peace Maker, Barrier-breaker, Gift Giver – Righteousness, Light and Riches.

2. Gospel of Peace: Sin Bearer, Peace Maker, Barrier Breaker

Jesus is the Prince of Peace. The angels sang of “Peace on earth, goodwill towards men” when Jesus was born, while there was no room at the inn. But, because of the death of Jesus and His resurrection, there is now room for peace between brethren, whether Jew or Greek!

Interestingly, when some Greeks came to meet Jesus, Andrew and Philip went and told Him. But then Jesus began to talk about His death and glorification; about a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dies to produce a plentiful harvest of new lives. And concluding with this declaration: “And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.” He said this to indicate how he was going to die. [John 12: 20 – 33]

But, there is more to this than just peace between brethren. We now have peace with God in Christ Jesus.

For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation… For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. [Eph. 2: 14, 18]

How did this happen? Isaiah 53 gives the answer.

Isa. 53: 5, 6: He (Jesus) was wounded for our transgressions, was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him… All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, everyone, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.