The Pain of Scourging
“But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging (stripes) we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5
Then Pilate therefore took Jesus and scourged Him.” John 19:1
It would be hard for us to even imagine the pain and torture that accompanied being scourged (whipped, flogged) under the Roman lash! In Jesus’ day it was not uncommon that a traitor or criminal awaiting execution be flogged. The Biblical historian and commentator, William Barclay writes, “We see the physical courage of Jesus. Pilate had him scourged. Few remained conscious throughout the ordeal; some died; and many went raving mad. Jesus stood that.”
Isaiah the prophet foretold of Messiah’s scourging hundreds of years before it occurred. He tells how Jesus’ piercing and crushing via of crucifixion for our sins: the nails driven in His hands and feet and the spear thrust into His side, would provide for our forgiveness of sin and being made right with God. And He adds, the punishment that Jesus took upon Himself, (the punishment you and I rightfully should have received), Jesus willingly received at the hand of God in your place and mine, so we could receive Jesus’ well-being (peace). And what a proclamation Isaiah includes in verse five, “And by His scourging we ARE healed.” Have you come to the cross for the forgiveness of sin and the healing of your soul? Jesus loves you! He bore the marks on His back, too! Go in His peace, and live joyously in Him!
Pastor Louie