Sunday Preview: My Righteous One

Why was the Bible written? What makes it different from any other book ever written? It answers life’s most critical question: How can a sinner be fully forgiven, reconciled to a holy God, and escape eternal judgment to enter eternal heaven? This central theme is woven throughout Scripture, and nowhere in the Old Testament is it more poignantly addressed than in Isaiah 53. Verses 10-12 of this chapter provide profound insights into the suffering and victory of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, the “Righteous One.”

The Crushing of Jesus
Isaiah 53:10 declares: “Yet the Lord was pleased to crush him severely. When you make him a guilt offering, he will see his seed, he will prolong his days, and by his hand, the Lord’s pleasure will be accomplished.” This verse is staggering in its implications. Why would God the Father be pleased to crush His Son? The answer lies in the purpose of Christ’s suffering: He was made a guilt offering to satisfy divine justice. Jesus bore the intense agony of sin’s punishment to provide full restitution and propitiation. The crushing was necessary to redeem sinners and set them free. 1 John 2:2 reminds us: “He himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for those of the whole world.”
But the story does not end with Christ’s suffering. Isaiah 53:10b assures us that the Messiah would “see his seed” and “prolong his days.” This speaks of resurrection and victory. Jesus would not remain in the grave; He would rise to eternal life, ensuring that all those given to Him by the Father would also be raised (John 6:39).

God’s Righteous Servant Carries Our Sins
Isaiah 53:11 further describes the work of the Messiah: “After his anguish, he will see light and be satisfied. By his knowledge, my righteous servant will justify many, and he will carry their iniquities.” Here, Jesus is called “my righteous servant.” His sinlessness qualifies Him to be the one who justifies the many. Through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection, He bears the iniquities of His people. The phrase “by His knowledge” indicates the importance of knowing Christ personally—understanding His work, provision, and resurrection. Romans 10:17 explains: “So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the message about Christ.” Faith in Jesus is how sinners are justified and receive the righteousness of God.

Jesus Intercedes for the Rebels
Isaiah 53:12 paints a detailed picture of the Messiah’s humility and intercession: “Because he willingly submitted to death, and was counted among the rebels; yet he bore the sin of many and interceded for the rebels.” Jesus, though sinless, identified with sinners. Philippians 2:7 illustrates His humility: “He emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity.”

Even now, Jesus intercedes for His people. This ongoing activity is captured in Hebrews 7:25: “Therefore, he is able to save completely those who come to God through him since he always lives to intercede for them.” Christ’s intercession is continuous, ensuring we are sustained, forgiven, and ultimately brought to glory.

A Conquering Hero
Isaiah 53:12 concludes with a victorious declaration: “Therefore I will give him the many as a portion, and he will receive the mighty as spoil.” This royal imagery foreshadows Jesus’ triumph over sin, death, and all His enemies. The “many” He receives are those He has justified—His redeemed people. Through Him, the weak are made strong, and the rebels are transformed into co-heirs of His eternal kingdom.

Conclusion
The message of Isaiah 53 is not merely theological—it is deeply personal. Have you been forgiven? Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the only way for sinners to be reconciled to God. He bore your sins, intercedes for you, and invites you to share His victory. Through Him, you can escape eternal judgment and receive eternal life.

Questions:

1. What makes the Bible different from any other book that has been written?
2. How can we reconcile the severity of Jesus’ punishment with the idea of a loving and just God? What does this teach about the cost of sin and the depth of God’s love?
3. What does it mean to “know” Jesus?
4. How does Jesus’ ongoing intercession for you fill you with comfort and assurance?
5. How can today’s message embolden you to share the gospel?

OPENING / WELCOME
Eric Renegar
SONG LEADER
Jason Schofield
PRAYER OF PRAISE
Jeremy Price
LEAD LORD'S SUPPER
Justin Spargo
 ASSIST LORD’S SUPPER
Gary Stewart
Wes Grushon
Brayden Grushon
Marvin Lewis
SCRIPTURE READING
James Passmore
Isaiah 52:13 53:12
PREACHING
Matthew Allen
CLOSING PRAYER
Roy Pyle
CLOSING COMMENTS
Mark Ringle
WELCOME CENTER
Rich Jacobs / Tina Jacobs
USHERS
Paul Braden / Mike Rosato
SONG DEVOTIONAL
Eric Renegar
COMMUNION PREP
Josi Armstrong
CLOSING THE BUILDING
Ben Baker