The phrase "allotted a portion with the great" finds its roots in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. This expression is often associated with the Messianic prophecy concerning the suffering servant, a figure who embodies both humility and exaltation through divine purpose and mission.

Biblical Reference:

Isaiah 53:12 states, "Therefore I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong, because He poured out His life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. Yet He bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors."

Context and Interpretation:

The context of Isaiah 53 is a profound prophecy that describes the suffering and subsequent glorification of the servant of the Lord. This chapter is pivotal in understanding the redemptive work of the Messiah, who is identified in Christian theology as Jesus Christ. The servant's suffering is not in vain; it leads to a victorious outcome, as indicated by the phrase "allotted a portion with the great."

The "great" in this context refers to those who are honored and esteemed, suggesting a position of high status and recognition. The servant's portion with the great signifies a reward or inheritance that comes as a result of his sacrificial obedience and fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This exaltation is not merely a personal triumph but a divine vindication of the servant's mission.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, this passage underscores the paradox of the Messiah's mission: through suffering and apparent defeat, ultimate victory and honor are achieved. The servant's willingness to "pour out His life unto death" and be "numbered with the transgressors" highlights the depth of his sacrificial love and the extent of his identification with humanity's sinfulness.

The phrase also emphasizes the concept of divine justice and reward. The servant's portion with the great is a testament to God's faithfulness in honoring those who fulfill His will, even through suffering. It reflects the biblical principle that humility and obedience to God lead to exaltation, as seen in other scriptural passages such as Philippians 2:8-9, where Christ's humility and obedience result in God exalting Him to the highest place.

Messianic Fulfillment:

In the New Testament, the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ are seen as the fulfillment of this prophecy. Jesus, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, bore the sins of many and made intercession for transgressors. His resurrection and ascension are viewed as the ultimate vindication and exaltation, aligning with the promise of being "allotted a portion with the great."

The early Christian church understood this passage as a clear indication of the Messiah's dual role as both suffering servant and triumphant king. This understanding is reflected in the writings of the apostles and the teachings of the early church fathers, who saw in Jesus the perfect embodiment of Isaiah's prophetic vision.

Conclusion:

The phrase "allotted a portion with the great" serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sacrificial love and the assurance of divine reward for those who faithfully fulfill God's purposes. It encapsulates the heart of the Gospel message, where suffering leads to glory, and death is conquered by life.