The gospel is the most unexpected message in history. It blindsides you and then leaves you gaping in wonder. Let yourself be blindsided by Isaiah 53:
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned — every one — to his own way… (Isaiah 53:6)
What would you naturally expect the next words in this passage to be. Here’s what I would expect: “And God crushed you for your wicked rebellion.” Or, “And God gave you what you deserve, blistering wrath.”
But that’s not what we find at all. Let yourself be astonished by these words:
…and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
This is mind boggling. I’m the one that’s lusted in my heart. I’m the one that’s spoken harshly to my wife. I’m the one that’s grumbled and complained about the amount of work I’m doing at the Pastor’s College. I’m the one who has arrogantly talked about others behind their backs. And I’m the one that should be crushed for my sins. God should wipe me off the face of the earth and cast me into hell for eternity.
But he doesn’t. Instead God lays our iniquity on the servant, his son, and crushes him. For me. For my forgiveness. This is blindside gospel.
It’s the kind of love that’s impossible to fathom. Do you ever doubt that God loves you? Spend some time soaking in this verse.
Via: The Blazing Center