Isaiah 53:1-6

Isaiah 53:1-6

Back in the 70’s there was a show called “To Tell The Truth”. In this game show there were three people all claiming to be someone. One would be the real person. Contestants would ask questions to try and find out who the real person was. Passion Week is a lot like that game show. We have the luxury of the whole story but the Jews in Jerusalem do not. Few if any expected or comprehended what would happen in the next week. Who is the real Jesus and what is He up to?

 

1. The Triumphal Entry

            Jesus has just 5 days to live.

            On the way to Jerusalem He has performed healings of Lepers, Blind people, and lame beggars. A huge crowd has been building on the way to Jerusalem. This crowd expects Jesus to ride into town and take over. He will kick out the Romans, Herod, and the Sanhedrin rulers of the temple. Jesus will set everything right again.

            So they sing and they dance, spread their coats and palm branches on the road.  Matthew 21:1-11 They thought Zech 9:9 as Jesus was riding on a donkey, and they sang Psalm 118:26.

            Jesus starts to meet expectations as He clears the temple.

            But Jesus is not only angry with the people at the temple He is frustrated with his disciples and followers slowness in learning. As He is returning to Jerusalem the next day He curses a fruitless fig tree, a symbol of the Jewish people and His disciples. Even though He has told them they still have no concept of His fulfillment of Isaiah 53:1-6. Tuesday Evening finds Jesus back at Bethany where the only one who seems to get it is Mary. The rest of the disciples are dumbfounded as she anoints Him with the perfume of death.

            By Friday the crowds will be completely disappointed and will shout for His death.

 

2. Jesus came as Isaiah 53:1-6 says

            a. out of a family of lesser expectations who lived in a town of even less respect.

            b. rejected by the leaders, the click of the temple insiders. Now even rejected by the public that had high expectations for Him.

            c. He took up your infirmities and carried your sorrows

            d. He was pierced crushed and punished

 

3. For you

            a. so you can be healed

            b. so you can find your way

            c. a good king to take power is a good thing

            d. a king willing to do whatever it takes to heal you is to be celebrated.

 

We do not sing Hosanna in ignorance, we sing it in wonder and praise, for the King of heaven did not enter the city that day to make Himself great. He came to make you whole.