Jesus Was Smitten by God for Us
John Piper explains that Jesus was divinely smitten and suffered death on our behalf, fulfilling God's will for our salvation.
This sermon focuses on the suffering and death of Jesus, highlighting how he was stricken, smitten, afflicted, pierced, crushed, chastised, and wounded. It emphasizes that Jesus poured out his soul to death, emphasizing the sacrifice he made. The sermon also delves into the aspect that it was God who struck him and put him to death, as it was the will of the Lord to crush him.
Full Transcript
Second, he suffered and he died. Verse four, stricken, smitten, afflicted. Verse five, pierced, crushed, chastised, wounded.
Verse 12, at the end of the verse, he poured out his soul to death. He died, suffered and died. Third, it was God who struck him and put him to death.
Verse four, smitten by God. Verse 10, it was the will of the Lord to crush him.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Jesus was stricken, smitten, and afflicted
- He was pierced, crushed, chastised, and wounded
- These sufferings were foretold in prophecy
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II
- Jesus suffered and died for our sins
- His death was a pouring out of his soul to death
- This was necessary for our redemption
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III
- God Himself struck Jesus
- It was the Lord's will to crush Him
- Divine judgment was upon Jesus for our sake
Key Quotes
“Stricken, smitten, afflicted; pierced, crushed, chastised, wounded.” — John Piper
“He poured out his soul to death; He died, suffered and died.” — John Piper
“It was the will of the Lord to crush him.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Reflect on the depth of Jesus' suffering as an expression of God's love for you.
- Trust in God's sovereign plan even when facing trials or suffering.
- Live in gratitude for the sacrifice Jesus made by bearing divine judgment on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that Jesus was 'smitten by God'?
It means that Jesus endured God's judgment and suffering on our behalf to accomplish salvation.
Why was Jesus' suffering necessary?
His suffering and death were necessary to atone for humanity's sins and fulfill God's redemptive plan.
Which scripture passages are central to this sermon?
Isaiah 53:4-5, 10, and 12 are key passages describing Jesus' suffering and God's will.
How does this sermon help believers today?
It deepens understanding of Christ's sacrifice and encourages trust in God's sovereign plan.
Is this sermon focused on prophecy or practical application?
It is primarily an expository teaching on prophecy with practical implications for faith.