“The chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

Contrasts continue within this Suffering Servant sequence. Even while “we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted” (Isaiah 53:4), He was “wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5). He knew the truth that our sinful souls like to deny: “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). He knew, even as He endured His tortured journey toward the cross, that He would die for us “while we were yet sinners” (Romans 5:8).

What a moment of wild contrasts that Isaiah foretold here. The self-righteous Jewish high priest said of the sinless One, “Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death” (Mark 14:64). Christ did not go to the cross because He committed blasphemy. He went to the cross to save even those who had wrongfully accused Him of blasphemy.

What marvelous love He shows to all! He owes us nothing but righteous wrath as we rebel in both heart and deed against His will and ways. He endured the chastisement that the law requires as payment for our sin. He now offers advocacy for us in the heavenly court (1 John 2:1), plus everlasting life and so much more!

Truly, He paid a debt He did not owe, but one we couldn’t possibly pay. The suffering of Yahweh’s Servant took care of that debt for you and for me. What a glorious contrast. Our Savior permitted sinners to sacrifice His sinless Self so He can dwell with them one day. He will commute anyone’s ultimate sentence when they act with “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21). BDT

Days of Praise Podcast is a podcast based on the Institute for Creation Research quarterly print devotional, Days of Praise. Start your day with devotional readings written by Dr. Henry Morris, Dr. Henry Morris III, Dr. John Morris, and others to strengthen and encourage you in your Christian faith.