Theme For Lenten Series: Christ Confronts Death.
Theme: The passion and death of our Lord.

COMMENTARY

Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13--53:12
This sublime poem of the Suffering Servant lifts up an idea that is featured prominently in Christian theology: suffering, pain and sorrow can be redemptive. Biblical interpreters have traditionally identified the servant in this poem with the nation of Israel. The nation had undergone profound humiliation and disfigurement through their ordeal in Babylon. Yet, the prophet predicts that God's afflicted one will be exalted at some future date (v. 13). While the nation can legitimately be interpreted as the servant in this poem, there are some problems. The description of the servant's sufferings are markedly individualistic and personal. It seems as if …