What is the meaning of Isaiah 53:7? He was oppressed and afflicted Isaiah paints a picture of the Servant enduring crushing external pressure and deep internal suffering. • In the Gospels we see Jesus surrounded by injustice: false accusations (Matthew 26:59-61), brutal mockery and beating (Luke 22:63-65), and the scourging that preceded the cross (John 19:1-3). • “Surely He took on our infirmities and carried our sorrows” (Isaiah 53:4) links His oppression to a substitutionary purpose—He bears what rightly belongs to us. • Acts 8:30-35 confirms this verse speaks of Jesus; Philip explains to the Ethiopian that the One Isaiah describes is “Jesus” who suffered though innocent. Yet He did not open His mouth Silence here is not weakness but willing submission. • During His trial, “He gave no answer, not even to a single charge” (Matthew 27:12-14). • Peter later highlights this deliberate restraint: “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats” (1 Peter 2:23). • The Servant’s quiet acceptance fulfills the Father’s redemptive plan (John 18:11). His silence speaks louder than any self-defense, testifying to perfect trust and obedience. He was led like a lamb to the slaughter The imagery shifts to sacrificial language familiar to every Israelite. • John the Baptist identifies Jesus: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). • Passover foreshadowed this moment (Exodus 12:5-7). Paul echoes it: “Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Corinthians 5:7). • Revelation portrays the triumphant yet still-slain Lamb (Revelation 5:6), underscoring the everlasting significance of this sacrifice. As a sheep before her shearers is silent A sheared sheep loses its fleece without protest; it yields to hands that remove what it bears. • Jesus allowed sinful men to strip Him—of clothing (Matthew 27:28), of dignity, and ultimately of life. • Isaiah couples humiliation with purpose: “By His wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). The Servant’s quiet surrender secures our restoration. So He did not open His mouth The repetition bookends the verse, stressing the wonder of His self-imposed silence. • Pilate was amazed: “Pilate was amazed that He made no answer” (Mark 15:5). The governor had never encountered such composure under threat of death. • Christ’s silence fulfilled prophecy precisely, reinforcing the reliability of Scripture (Luke 24:25-27). • His choice models how believers may respond when suffering for righteousness’ sake (1 Peter 2:20-21). summary Isaiah 53:7 foretells Jesus’ willing, silent submission to unjust suffering as God’s sacrificial Lamb. Though oppressed and afflicted, He uttered no protest, fulfilling prophecy and accomplishing redemption. His silence magnifies His sovereignty, His love, and Scripture’s accuracy, inviting us to trust and follow the Lamb who bore our sins. |
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