Isaiah 50

“He is near who justifies Me. Who will contend with Me? Let us stand together. Who is My adversary? Let him come near Me. Surely the Lord GOD will help Me. Who is he who will condemn Me?” (Isaiah 50:8–9, NKJV)

Who is speaking here? The translators of the New King James Version attribute this to Christ (which is why they capitalize “Me”). We believe that verses 4 though 9 are all speaking about Christ. And yet the apostle Paul applies verses 8 and 9 to the church.

“Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns?” (Romans 8:33–34, NKJV)

The LORD opened the ear of Christ, and He was not rebellious. He listened and then spoke words of encouragement to the weary (v. 4). He gave His back to those who struck Him and His cheeks to those who pulled out His beard (v. 6). Because He trusted the LORD to help Him, He knew that He would not be ashamed (v. 7). Therefore, He knew that no one could ultimately condemn Him.

This lesson applies to us all. If God justifies us, then who can condemn us? But people will try to bring charges against us. They will be judgmental and fault finding. They may insult or mock us. What does it matter? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Does this mean that we should possess a rugged individualism that doesn’t care a hoot about what others think? The problem with that attitude is that it usually leads to impertinence and isolation. Jesus was not conceited, aloof or careless. He was humble, compassionate and considerate toward others. But He also knew that despite what people said or did against Him, He was safe in the Father’s hands. He entrusted Himself and His cause completely to God because He knew that He would be justified, helped and vindicated before all.

Do we have this blessed assurance?