In the chapters preceding Isaiah 53, God pronounces the coming a servant who will bring the comfort he promised in Isaiah 40. Isaiah 49.3, and he said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” This is the figure that will bring a spiritual salvation to the people of God. He then provides three commands for the people of Israel to listen and three commands for the people to awaken, as God prepares them for who this servant will be and what he will do. Finally, in Isaiah 52.13-53, God shows how this salvation will take place.
Therefore, as we move to Isaiah 53 this is the picture in view. The prophecy begins by claiming that the arm of the Lord has been revealed. However, the one that has been revealed was not recognized as one with the power to fulfill what has been promised. He was despised and rejected by men, who esteemed him not. The people of Israel failed to properly estimate who this man was. This prompts the question, how do we esteem Jesus? Although it appeared that God was the one who rejected him, he actually used him to fulfill his purposes. We are those who have rejected him, who is the revelation of the mighty arm of the Lord. This is servant who will bring about the new exodus of the people. However, v.7-12 shows that this will require the death and resurrection of this man. This death does not reflect defeat, but rather shows how he will be victorious over the curse. And the spoil that comes from this are those who do not believe in this man. This chapter concludes by identifying this figure in four categories: volunteer, transgressor, sin-bearer, and intercessor. Through these roles we understand exactly how this unsuspecting servant can be one capable of overcoming the curse and restoring God’s people.
Because God has provided a servant sacrificed on our behalf we have reason to sing. Rejoice because the figure of Isaiah 53 has come and this work has now been accomplished. And based upon the accomplished work of Christ, God calls for all who are thirsty to come, all the poor to buy while the Lord may be found. We can trust in him because this word has come to fruition and this word will accomplish everything that it has promised. May we exalt this servant, who has brought joy and peace to us!
~MES