Reading Plan:
Isaiah 53
Our Thoughts:
The book of Isaiah is an account of the message God gave to the nation of Judah through the prophet Isaiah. At the time God gave Isaiah His message for the Hebrew nation, Israel was divided into two kingdoms: the northern kingdom (Israel) and the southern kingdom (Judah). While both kingdoms had wandered far from God, Isaiah's message was primarily for Judah.
Isaiah 53 is one of the most referenced Old Testament passages of Scripture because of its prophetic and accurate description of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. If you have not already, take a moment and read Isaiah chapter 53.
Isaiah literally lays out the Gospel for us! Isaiah goes into great detail about Jesus' humble beginnings (vs. 2), how he would be treated (vs. 3), what he did for us (vs. 4-6), humanity's need for a Savior (vs. 6), His death (vs.8-9), and ultimately His resurrection (vs. 11).
Keep in mind that these words were spoken nearly 700 years prior to Jesus walking the earth! God, through His prophet Isaiah, gives the nation of Judah a glimpse into the future! This is amazing. In 13 different chapters Isaiah prophecies about Jesus, and all of them have been fulfilled! No other world religion boasts prophecies that have been fulfilled in space and time the way Christianity does.
Unless you are a theology nerd, you may not get too excited about stuff like this - but you should! You see, the Israelites certainly had proof of God's faithfulness to encourage them in life - a promised son for Abraham, deliverance from slavery, and entrance into the promised land. Even still, they didn't have the whole story. They couldn't know what we now know. Unlike the people of Isaiah's time, we have the benefit of living on the other side of Isaiah's prophecies. We see the faithfulness of God on display throughout all of scripture. From creation to resurrection, we have proof of God's faithfulness through the life of Jesus.
As you read Isaiah 53, let this truth resonate deep in your heart; God can be trusted. Isaiah prophesied Jesus' birth, death, and resurrection, and they happened 700 years later! We serve a God that keeps His word. I love how Maverick City Music says it in "Man of Your Word": "Yahweh you keep your promises; You said it, we believe it...'cause you're a man of your word." What a great anthem for us! We can trust God, no matter what.
Anytime you see a cross around someone's neck or hanging on a wall, be reminded that God can be trusted. His Word is full of His promises to us. Below are a few promises God has made to you. Take a moment to read these passages and thank God for His faithfulness.
- God loves you deeply. - John 3:16, Romans 8:38-39
- God forgives you completely. - 1 John 1:9, Psalm 103:12
- God is with you constantly. - Hebrews 13:5, Matthew 28:20
More Questions:
Where have you seen God's faithfulness displayed in your life?
From the promises listed above, which one do you need to remind yourself of the most?
Prayer:
Father, thank you for always keeping your promises. In times of worry or difficult circumstances, remind me of your past faithfulness and renew my confidence in you.
Author: Gray Strickland