Good Friday (II)

 Only on W3P can there be two Good Friday threads. Last week in my complete lack of sleep, I misread the calendar. With the exception of our Canadian, I gratefully thank each of you for NOT being unkind about my error. 

THE POWERFUL MEANING OF ISAIAH 53:5 (BY HIS WOUNDS WE ARE HEALED)

March 24, 2025 by Jeffery Curtis Poor

THE MEANING OF ISAIAH 53:5

Every word in this verse carries a depth of meaning that reveals the love, sacrifice, and redemptive work of the Messiah. Let’s break it down and explore what this verse teaches us about Jesus and the healing He offers.

“BUT HE WAS PIERCED FOR OUR TRANSGRESSIONS” EXPLAINED 

“But” continues the previous thought and contrasts the difference between the Messiah and the rest of humankind. 

Being “pierced” shows that Jesus would go through extreme distress that would ultimately end in death. This is strong language that describes violence and excruciating pain. 

Why is the Messiah going through this? Our transgressions. 

Transgressions are willful and rebellious sins that humankind has committed. Our rebellion is what caused Christ’s wounds. He did not deserve this, but willingly took on the punishment that we deserved. 

“HE WAS CRUSHED FOR OUR INIQUITIES” EXPLAINED 

The next part of this verse further paints this disturbing picture. He was crushed, or bruised, for our iniquities. 

The image here is that of a threshing floor where grain is crushed so that it can become sustenance for those who eat it. Similarly, Isaiah is saying that the Messiah will be crushed under the weight of our sins so that all who look to him can be saved. 

“THE PUNISHMENT THAT BROUGHT US PEACE WAS ON HIM” EXPLAINED 

So far the picture of Isaiah 53:5 has been dark, but now some hope is being injected. The punishment that the Messiah endures is to bring us peace. 

Peace with God is only possible once our sins have been atoned. Because of God’s great love he took on the punishment designated for us; he stood in our place. God desires a whole relationship with his people and taking on our sins was the only way. 

“BY HIS WOUNDS WE ARE HEALED” EXPLAINED 

The suffering of the Servant brings about positive results for all people. He bears the weight of our sins so that we can experience healing. This healing isn’t just physical but rather refers to a total redemption. 

All who place their trust in Jesus will be healed. The effects of their sin will be removed. By his wounds, we are healed. 

This is an incredible promise and hope that we have. Sin has brought death and destruction, but we can have hope because of what the Messiah has done. He is the great physician who brings healing to all who follow him.