Oct. 4, 2021

The Suffering Servant

Overview: Isaiah 53-54, Ephesians 6

Isaiah provides comfort for the exiles, prophesying that the glory of the Lord will soon be revealed to all nations. He points to the future suffering servant, who removes our guilt before God by His sacrifice. Jesus is this suffering and triumphant servant, and this passage is quoted in the New Testament (Acts 8:30-35) in reference to Him. The punishment that brought us peace was upon Him. 

Isaiah then shows how God’s compassion is available for all people. For those who believe in Jesus, the everlasting love of God will heal their sorrows. God’s justice and peace will prevail.

Paul instructs the Ephesians to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. He encourages them to put on the whole armor of God, to engage in spiritual warfare using the Lord’s resources. Our battle is not with other people, but with spiritual forces who oppose the work of the kingdom. Paul quotes from Isaiah 59:17, using powerful imagery to show the spiritual work ahead of us. 

He concludes his letter with a final blessing of all who love Jesus with a love incorruptible.