For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. 1 Peter 2:21-25

If there is any question, who the prophecy of Isaiah 53 is about, the Apostle Peter , under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, makes it very clear that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the suffering servant in Isaiah. Those who claim the Messiah would never die for the sins of the world, don’t understand God’s salvation plan for humanity and they also don’t understand their state of depravity.

And as we reflect on the cross, and all the suffering that Christ endured for us, only because he loves us, the Apostle Peter makes a profound statement “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow his steps” So much for prosperity gospel, so much for Christian nationalism, no you are going to suffer for Christ because Christ suffered for you!

This idea that we are going to escape any suffering or persecution in Christ is not Biblical. In fact Jesus taught completely the opposite , Christ said “If anyone wants to be my disciple, they must deny themselves, carry their cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24) or Jesus taught “Anyone who endures to the end , shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13) This idea that you are going to “live your best life now” is not only not Biblical, its blasphemy to be honest. You woulds have to deny all the teachings of Christ and the Apostles to come to that conclusion

Now before we end this devotional, I want you to reread the words of Peter here , over and over. Understand the suffering Christ endured for your soul, understand Christ only did this because he loves you and wants to set you free from the wrath to come. If you understand this, why wouldn’t you be willing to give your life to Jesus Christ? This world has nothing to offer that is greater than the love of Jesus Christ

Who his own self bore our sins in his body on the tree (cross), that we, being dead to sin, should live unto righteousness. Christ paid the penalty for your sins, for my sins, can you grasp a God who would do this? Can you grasp the love your Creator has for his rebellious creation? That we may be declared righteous before our Heavenly Father, only because of the precious blood of Jesus Christ and the sanctification of the Holy Spirit

What would Jesus do? Christ is our example, learn from him by his word, live for him by your actions, be obedient to him because Christ is your Lord and God, Amen!