The Stripes of the Innocent Heals the Guilty
Opening Thoughts:
When we think of the prophetic passages of Christ’s sufferings, we have to go to Isaiah 53. The scriptures give us a list of all the things Jesus suffered for us so that we could spend eternity with Him.
Scripture:
Prophesy: Isaiah 50:6, 53:3-11, Fulfilment: Matthew. 26:67, 27:27-30
Devotion:
It doesn’t seem fair that the innocent should suffer for the guilty, but this was God’s plan for Jesus all along. After reading the passages about what Jesus went through for you and me, it should drive us to our knees in worship and thanksgiving for what Christ went through so that we can have life. Let’s look at the list: spit in His face, whipped him, pulled out His beard, stripped Him, mocked Him, blindfolded & slapped him, crown of thorns, hit Him on the head with a reed, carried His cross & crucified. He didn’t deserve any of this but willingly suffered it for you and for me.
Application:
Christ went through all of this so we could accept His free gift of salvation. We know that we can’t save anyone, but many times you and I won’t allow ourselves to be inconvenienced to point someone to Christ. We wouldn’t dream of inviting a neighbor or co-worker to church because we’re afraid of what they might think. Or we wouldn’t dream of spending our hard-earned money to help someone hear the gospel. We have become very selfish with the things that God has given us that can be used for the furtherance of the gospel.
Prayer:
Lord, give me the courage & faith to be willing to be inconvenienced so that I can reach souls for you.