Isaiah 53:12

“Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”

Context:Isaiah 53 is known as the “Suffering Servant” passage and is considered one of the most significant Messianic prophecies in the Old Testament. It speaks about the sacrificial work and redemptive mission of the coming Messiah.

Division of Portion:The verse begins by stating, “Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great.” This portion refers to the inheritance or reward that the suffering servant (identified as the Messiah) will receive. It suggests that God will exalt and honour the Messiah, granting Him a place of prominence among the great or mighty ones.

Dividing the Spoil:The verse continues, “He shall divide the spoil with the strong.” This imagery conveys the idea that the Messiah will emerge victorious over His enemies and share the spoils of the battle with those who are strong. It highlights the triumph and authority that the Messiah will possess.

Pouring out His Soul:The verse states, “Because he hath poured out his soul unto death.” This phrase emphasises the self-sacrificial nature of the Messiah’s mission. Jesus Christ, the fulfilment of this prophecy, poured out His soul unto death on the cross, offering Himself as a perfect sacrifice for the sins of humanity. It speaks of His willingness to give up His life for the redemption of mankind.

Numbered with Transgressors:The verse continues, “And he was numbered with the transgressors.” This phrase prophesies that the Messiah would be treated as a criminal and associated with sinners. This aspect of the prophecy finds its fulfilment in Jesus’ crucifixion, where He was crucified alongside two thieves, being wrongly perceived as a transgressor Himself.

Bearing the Sin of Many:The verse states, “And he bare the sin of many.” This phrase reveals the redemptive purpose of the Messiah’s suffering. Jesus, as the sinless Lamb of God, took upon Himself the sins of humanity, paying the price for our transgressions and providing a way for forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

Making Intercession:The verse concludes, “And made intercession for the transgressors.” This final statement highlights the compassionate nature of the Messiah’s work. Jesus, through His sacrifice, not only bore our sins but also intercedes on behalf of those who trust in Him, making continuous petitions for their forgiveness and salvation.