Wounded for Our Sins

Jesus took our punishment when He was wounded for our sins on the cross.

“Pilate … scourged Him. And the soldiers twisted a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and they put on Him a purple robe. Then they said, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ And they struck Him with their hands.”—John 19:1–3 NKJV

Standing before Pilate, Jesus endured horrible humiliation, fulfilling an earlier prophecy: “They will mock Him and scourge Him, and spit on Him, and kill Him” (Mark 10:34). After a brief trial, Jesus was beaten. Then Roman soldiers inflicted even greater pain and discomfort on Him. They reveled in their opportunity to torment this “King.” They had their fun as they mocked and taunted Him, slapping Him in the face.

But Jesus endured all their taunts and torture, even to the point of death on the cross. He was fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be “wounded for our transgressions…bruised for our iniquities … by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). He was our perfect Passover Lamb, suffering for us, dying that our sins might be forgiven.

But Jesus also was giving us an example. Yes, the world might mock and ridicule, persecute and oppress His followers. Yet Jesus is the ultimate victor, and we will be victorious in Him if we remain faithful.

Don’t be surprised if you are persecuted for your faith. You may experience opposition, trials, or tribulation, or you may be wounded emotionally, financially, or even physically. But in every situation you face, never give in to fear. Never compromise or give up hope.

Instead, be bold to stand for the Gospel. Seek God’s Kingdom first in your life. Because of Jesus, you can have victory over every foe!

Reflection Question: Have you ever been mocked for your faith?