Identity Crisis

Isa. 53:12 - "Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors."

The verse from Isaiah is recored about 700 years before Jesus. It is a prophecy of the Cross.

It is an astounding prediction. So perfectly fulfilled by Jesus down to the minute detail.

It is the best news the saved or sinner could ever hear.

Jesus came and hung out with the likes of us. He sought us out. He purposely wanted to be around us.

Then He died for us.

Matt. 11:19 - "The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds."

He suffered accusations because of His association with sinners.

He identified with you.

Jesus. Friend of sinners. Jesus. Friend forever.

Sounds a lot better than "You'll burn in hell for that!" That may be no less true a statement, but it doesn't win a lot of people over to Jesus.

I am glad He came and hung out with me one night. I have never left His side since. I will be with Him forever.

He won me with His love.

He is your friend today.

Keepin' it Real,

Pastor Kevin <><