Exalted, Despised, and Rejected

Sermon on Isaiah 52:13-53:3 from Pastor Jason Van Bemmel Forest Hill Presbyterian Church www.foresthillpca.org This sermon, based on Isaiah 52:13-53:12, focuses on the "Fourth Servant Song" and its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It highlights the themes of humiliation and exaltation, disbelief and rejection, and their application to believers. The sermon is structured around five stanzas, with a central focus on Isaiah 53:5: "he was pierced for our transgressions". The sermon begins with the servant's exaltation, noting that he will act wisely and be lifted up. However, this exaltation is connected to his suffering and disfigurement. The "lifting up" refers to both his glorification and crucifixion, emphasizing the paradox of victory through humiliation. The servant’s suffering leads to the cleansing and redemption of many nations. Despite this, the sermon acknowledges widespread disbelief. The servant grew up humbly, without beauty or majesty, and was despised and rejected. This rejection stemmed from people's desire for a different kind of Messiah. The sermon concludes with applications for believers. Believers should not reject God’s gifts based on their form, and they should find comfort in knowing that Jesus understands suffering. The sermon also stresses that Christians should follow Jesus' example of self-denial, rather than seeking worldly comfort or glory.