“When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, ‘Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.’ ” (Mat 8:16-17 KJV-citation of Isaiah 53:4)
The Jewish society of the 1st century needed evidence. For centuries they had been conditioned to demand evidence of anyone who attempted to lead them. In today’s passage, Matthew simply relates how Jesus of Nazareth fulfills a prophecy thus giving evidence that he is Messiah, the Anointed One. He had previously healed a Roman Centurion’s servant and Peter’s mother-in-law. This sort of news cannot be kept secret.
Soon everyone, families and friends, brought their loved ones to him for healing. Note that Jesus “cast out” evil spirits and “healed all that were sick.” He took upon himself the weaknesses and diseases! We would not normally have thought of this prophecy in relation to healing, yet the Holy Spirit led Matthew to interpret it this way. Perhaps Jesus explained it this way when He “opened their understanding” concerning Scripture after his resurrection (Luke 24:45-47).
We may properly conclude that this prophecy and its fulfillment includes all of the weaknesses and diseases of mankind whether mental, emotional, psychological, physical, or spiritual. Sinful weakness is included. Sin’s disease is included. Jesus, our Savior and Lord takes them all upon himself and delivers those who come to him, morning, noon, and night. After the Resurrection, how much more evidence do we need?
Dear Father, thank you for your Son who took all our weaknesses, diseases, and sins upon himself on Calvary. Empower everyone who reads these words to go to him for deliverance. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in Jesus your deliverer,