Prophecy

We read these words in the latter part Isaiah 52:
"See, my servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. Just as there were many who were appalled at him — his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness— so will he sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand."

It is commonly understood that this passage describes a holy servant of God that is to come. This servant will "act wisely." As a result, this servant will be "raised", "lifted up," and "highly exalted." Even though this servant is wise, he is rejected because of his appearance.

This rejection does not stop the servant from both blessing and taming the world. Salvation and truth will come through him.

It is also commonly understood amongst Christians that this passage specifically prophesies about Jesus of Nazareth. This allows us to interpret the Isaiah text as such: Jesus acted wisely by living a sinless life and dealing with his enemies in ethical ways. Ironically, he was crucified - lifted up into the air for the purpose of both killing and humiliating him.

The torture and means of execution that Jesus endured left him physically disfigured and marred. But this crucifixion which led to his death did not lead to permanent death nor humiliation. On the contrary, it led to his being exalted; raised to life by the Father, installed at the right hand of the Father, and worshiped by his followers.

Jesus' death and exaltation "sprinkle" the nations with the means for salvation. Though Jesus was a Jew from the insignificant land of Israel, the world and its leaders has now gained access to story of the one true God and His plan for rescuing all people.

Of course, these words flow easily from a Christian pastor and one who is thoroughly convinced of who Jesus was and is. Not so for everyone. Biblical prophecy has many contemporary naysayers who rely on in-depth scholarship for their opinions. Some of these naysayers would say that the Isaiah text should stand on its own and that making it christological is an exegetical error. Some would even say that they have no less faith in God than I.

What does it mean to interpret Jewish prophecy of the OT through the lenses of Christ Jesus? What does it mean for our faith if we do not?

~ Jeff