Who has believed what he has heard from us? Isaiah 53:1
Isaiah 53 is all about the good news of Jesus—His cross, His resurrection, and His return.
First, Isaiah 53 tells us what Jesus accomplished when He died on the cross. “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” (53:5).
The Gospels explain what men did to Jesus. They placed a crown of thorns on His head, they nailed Him to a cross, and they mocked Him while He suffered. But Isaiah 53 takes us inside what God was doing. He tells us that God was laying the sins that would have condemned us on Jesus, so that, through Jesus, we might be forgiven and reconciled to God.
Next, Isaiah 53 tells us what Jesus would accomplish in His resurrection. “He shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand” (53:10). Jesus will gather a great family—offspring from all nations, who will live forever as Jesus lives forever. God’s great plan to bring blessing to all people will be accomplished through Him.
Last, Isaiah 53 tells us what Jesus will accomplish when He returns in triumph. “Therefore, I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong” (53:12).
Beginning with Isaiah 53, Philip told the chancellor the good news about the cross, the resurrection, and the return of Jesus. As a result, the chancellor came to faith. He believed, was baptized, and continued his journey rejoicing (Acts 8:26-39).
Have you ever really understood what Jesus accomplished on the cross? In His resurrection? Or what He will accomplish when He returns in triumph? If not, perhaps there is more joy ahead for you as you hear about these things and believe.
