Behold, my servant shall act wisely;
he shall be high and lifted up,
and shall be exalted.
14 As many were astonished at you—
his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance,
and his form beyond that of the children of mankind—
15 so shall he sprinkle many nations.
Most everyone knows there were four Beatles, John, Paul, George, and Ringo. George Martin, who produced their records, has been called the fifth Beatle because he played piano on so many of the songs. Most everyone knows there are four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The book of Isaiah has been called the fifth gospel because he mentions the coming Messiah and suffering servant so many times. Here in chapter 52, the crucifixion seems to be described 700 years in advance as Jesus was lifted up and people were astonished at his appearance after the severe flogging. His death would cover the nations with his cleansing blood.
Come to Cape Community Church tomorrow as we move on from chapter 52 into the greatest prophecy of Jesus and the clearest description of the atonement in the Old Testament. See how Isaiah’s description of a Messiah who is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Son of David, born of a virgin, culminates in the suffering of the King of kings on a cross, paying the price for our sins and setting the stage for the greatest event of all, the Resurrection. All this in one chapter! Come and see how the fifth gospel permeates the New Testament and thank God for the Good News in the Old Testament.
Dear Lord, thank you for the Bible and its story of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration. Help us to see today’s events as a part of your glorious plan. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church