The Suffering and Victory of the Messiah

Preached at Braswell Baptist Church at 5021 GA-83, Good Hope, GA. 30641

Sermon Title: "The Suffering and Victory of the Messiah"

Text of Sermon: Psalm 22

Subject: Redemption

Central Idea of the Text (CIT): The psalmist's vivid portrayal of suffering and ultimate triumph anticipates the redemptive work of the Messiah.

Proposition: Today, we will explore how Psalm 22 reveals the suffering and victory of the Messiah, offering us hope and redemption.

Objective: By the end of this sermon, you will gain a deeper understanding of the redemptive message in Psalm 22 and be inspired to embrace the hope it offers.

Main Point of the Sermon (MPS): In Psalm 22, we witness the Messiah's profound suffering and triumphant victory, which serves as a source of hope and redemption for all believers.

Introduction (5 minutes)

Ladies and gentlemen, brothers and sisters in faith, today we gather in the presence of the Almighty to embark on a profound journey through Psalm 22. In these sacred verses, we will uncover a tapestry of emotions, a profound revelation of the suffering and triumph of Christ, and a message of hope and redemption that resonates through the ages.

Psalm 22, attributed to King David, is unlike any other in the Book of Psalms. It is a prophetic masterpiece that paints a vivid picture of Christ’s suffering - a portrayal so striking that it resonates deeply with every soul that encounters it. But it doesn't stop there; it propels us forward into the glorious victory of Christ, offering a glimpse into the redemptive plan of God.

As we immerse ourselves in the words of this psalm, we're not merely exploring ancient verses; we are embarking on a journey that connects the Old Testament to the New, the suffering to the triumph, and despair to hope. It's a journey that takes us from the depths of anguish to the heights of redemption, and it's a journey that calls us to reflect on our own trials, our own suffering, and our own hope.

So, my dear friends, prepare your hearts, open your minds, and ready your spirits as we dive into the depths of Psalm 22. In this sacred exploration, may we discover the transformative power of the Jesus' journey and how it offers us a beacon of hope, a promise of redemption, and a source of enduring strength in the midst of life's trials. Let us journey together into the heart of Psalm 22, where we'll find the suffering and triumph of the Messiah, and in doing so, may we find hope and redemption for our own lives.

I. Christ’s Suffering (Verses 1-21) (15 minutes)

Verse 1-2: The Cry of Abandonment

Explanation: These opening verses contain a heart-wrenching cry that resonates through the ages, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" We dive into the historical context and the emotional and spiritual suffering they convey. Application: How have you felt forsaken or distant from God in your own life? Share a moment of personal reflection with the congregation.

Verses 6-8: The Mockery of the Messiah

Explanation: We explore the vivid descriptions of the Messiah's mockery and taunting, parallel to the treatment Jesus received during His crucifixion. Illustration: Share a historical account of a famous mocking incident and connect it to the mockery endured by Jesus, illustrating the pain and humiliation He endured.

I. The Messiah's Suffering (Verses 1-21): Verses 6-8: The Mockery of the Messiah In verse 6, the psalmist laments being "scorned by everyone, despised by the people." These words transport us to the scene of the crucifixion, where Jesus endured not only physical suffering but also emotional and verbal abuse. His suffering mirrored the very words penned in this ancient psalm. Illustration: Let me take you back in time to a period in history that reveals a stark parallel to the mockery suffered by our Savior. In the 19th century, during the dark days of American slavery, there was a remarkable individual by the name of Frederick Douglass. Born into the bondage of slavery, he endured the horrors of servitude but emerged as a powerful orator and advocate for freedom. One of the most poignant incidents from Douglass's life was a particular day when he was sent to work in the shipyards. It was a time when slave owners sought to break the spirit of those they enslaved. They set out to mock, ridicule, and humiliate Douglass in the most degrading way possible. They placed him on the whipping post, exposed him to the searing sun, and proceeded to lash him mercilessly. Yet, it was not just the physical pain; it was the emotional and psychological humiliation that Douglass endured. Much like our Savior, who was mocked by the crowd as He hung on the cross, Douglass was subjected to public ridicule and physical suffering. But what sets both of these stories apart is the unwavering spirit and faith that carried them through these darkest moments. Douglass, like Jesus, rose above the torment, found strength in his faith, and became a powerful voice for freedom.

one famous historical mocking incident that can be connected to the mockery endured by Jesus during His crucifixion is the story of the trial and mocking of King Louis XVI of France during the French Revolution.

In 1793, King Louis XVI, who was the last reigning monarch of France before the revolution, faced a trial by the revolutionary government. During the trial, he was subjected to intense public humiliation and mockery. Much like Jesus, he was brought before a crowd, in his case, a revolutionary tribunal, where he was accused of various charges.

The mocking and humiliation of King Louis XVI included:

Ridiculous Attire: King Louis XVI was stripped of his royal attire and forced to wear a simple white shirt, which was reminiscent of a prisoner's garment. This stark change in attire was intended to demean and dehumanize him.

Verbal Abuse: The revolutionaries verbally abused King Louis XVI during his trial. They hurled insults, curses, and accusations at him, making him a symbol of the old, oppressive regime.

Crown of Thorns: In a particularly cruel and symbolic act, the revolutionaries placed a crown of thorns on his head. This act drew a clear parallel to the crown of thorns placed on Jesus' head during His crucifixion, mocking Him as a supposed "king."

Public Ridicule: The trial was conducted in a public square, where the people could witness the humiliation of their former king. Like Jesus, who was crucified in a public place, King Louis XVI endured the mockery and jeers of the crowd.

Final Sentencing: King Louis XVI was ultimately sentenced to death by guillotine, a gruesome and very public form of execution. His death was a symbol of the end of the monarchy and the establishment of the French Republic.

Connecting this historical incident to the mockery endured by Jesus on the cross, we see a parallel in the public humiliation, cruel treatment, and the use of symbolism to belittle them. Both King Louis XVI and Jesus faced humiliation and mockery in a very public and degrading manner.

The comparison serves to highlight the depth of emotional and physical suffering that Jesus endured during His crucifixion. His experience, like that of King Louis XVI, shows us the capacity for cruelty that human beings can exhibit. However, in the case of Jesus, His suffering had a redemptive purpose, offering salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in Him. This connection reminds us of the immense pain and humiliation Jesus endured on the cross for the sake of our redemption.

Verses 14-18: The Graphic Description of Suffering

Explanation: These verses offer a graphic depiction of the Messiah's physical suffering, mirroring the crucifixion of Jesus and foretelling His redemptive sacrifice.

In Psalm 22:14-18, we encounter a vivid and prophetic description of the Messiah's physical suffering, which remarkably parallels the crucifixion of Jesus. These verses provide a graphic depiction of the Messiah's physical anguish, foretelling His redemptive sacrifice. Notably:

1. Psalm 22:14 portrays the Messiah's distress, with the phrase "all my bones are out of joint," signifying extreme suffering and pain. This description mirrors the physical strain Jesus endured on the cross, where the act of crucifixion exerted immense pressure on His bones. Cross-references to the Gospel accounts (e.g., Matthew 27:46; Luke 23:44-46) reveal the depth of Jesus' suffering and His feeling of abandonment by God. 2. In Psalm 22:15, the Messiah's weakened state is described, with an emphasis on extreme thirst. The phrase "you lay me in the dust of death" suggests a state of near-death or imminent mortality. This aligns with Jesus' statement on the cross, "I thirst," as recorded in the Gospel of John (John 19:28). 3. Psalm 22:16 contains an extraordinary prophecy of the crucifixion. It speaks of the Messiah being surrounded by "dogs" and "evildoers" and mentions that "they have pierced my hands and feet." This specific reference to the piercing of hands and feet perfectly foretells the crucifixion method used in Jesus' time, where nails were driven through the hands and feet of the condemned. The fulfillment of this prophecy is evident in the Gospel accounts of Jesus' crucifixion (Matthew 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:33; John 19:18), confirming the accuracy of the prophetic description in Psalm 22.

These cross-references highlight the remarkable connection between Psalm 22 in the Old Testament and the crucifixion of Jesus in the New Testament. They underscore how the suffering depicted in Psalm 22 foretells the physical agony experienced by our Savior, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the life of Jesus.

Application: Invite the congregation to reflect on the immense physical pain Jesus endured and the significance of His sacrifice for our sins, creating a moment of deep contemplation.

Verses 19-21: The Shift to a Plea for Deliverance

Explanation: We witness a shift from despair to a plea for deliverance in these verses. Discuss the Messiah's trust in God even in the midst of suffering, mirroring the resilience of Christ on the cross.

In these verses, Psalm 22 shifts from a tone of despair to a plea for deliverance. It reflects a pivotal moment in the text where the psalmist, representing the Messiah, transitions from expressing anguish and sorrow to expressing trust in God. This shift mirrors the resilience of Christ on the cross, as it highlights how, even in the depths of suffering, Jesus maintained unwavering trust in God's plan. It serves as a powerful reminder that just as the psalmist found hope in God's deliverance, so did Jesus continue to trust God's purpose even in His darkest hours of suffering on the cross

Illustration: Share a personal story or a biblical example of someone who maintained their faith in challenging circumstances, highlighting the importance of trust during trials.

Illustration: Daniel in the Lion's Den - A Testament to Unshakable Faith One of the most compelling examples of unwavering faith amidst daunting trials can be found in the biblical account of Daniel in the lion's den. Daniel, a devout servant of God, lived during a time when he faced the ultimate test of his faith. In the book of Daniel, we read of a jealous group of officials who conspired against Daniel, persuading King Darius to issue a decree that no one should pray to any god or man except the king for thirty days. But Daniel, faithful to his God, continued to pray three times a day, as he had always done. When he was discovered praying to God, King Darius was forced to uphold his own decree and ordered Daniel to be cast into a den of hungry lions. Imagine the dire circumstances: Daniel, a faithful servant of God, found himself thrown into a pit with ferocious beasts, facing the prospect of imminent death. In this perilous situation, where most would be consumed by fear, Daniel's faith remained unshaken. The following morning, as the king rushed to the lion's den, he cried out in anguish, fearing the worst for Daniel. But to the astonishment of all present, including the envious officials who had plotted against Daniel, they found him unharmed, with the lions at peace by his side. It was a miraculous demonstration of God's protection and Daniel's unyielding faith. Daniel's story reminds us that trust in God during trials can lead to remarkable outcomes. His steadfast devotion and unwavering faith in the face of certain death serve as an inspiring testament to the power of trust and faith in God. In our own lives, when we encounter trials and tribulations that seem insurmountable, we can draw strength and inspiration from the example of Daniel. Just as God delivered Daniel from the jaws of the lions, our faith can sustain us through the most challenging circumstances, reminding us that when we place our trust in the Almighty, we, too, can emerge from the lion's den of life's trials unscathed and victorious. The story of Daniel in the lion's den underscores the importance of maintaining trust in God, even when facing seemingly impossible challenges.

II. The Messiah's Victory (Verses 22-31) (12 minutes)

Verse 22: The Turning Point of Praise

Explanation: We explore the turning point in the psalm where the tone shifts from lament to praise. This verse signifies the Messiah's ultimate triumph and the invitation to praise God.

The shift occurs in verse 22 and represents the Messiah's ultimate triumph. It is an invitation to praise God for the victory that is to come, signifying that even in the midst of suffering and despair, there is a promise of ultimate triumph and a reason to offer praise and worship to the Almighty. This transformation from lament to praise reminds us that no matter how challenging our circumstances, there is hope for a brighter future through our faith and trust in God.

Application: Encourage the congregation to find moments of praise in their own lives, even in times of hardship, and invite them to sing a hymn of praise together.

Verses 23-26: The Message of God's Sovereignty

Explanation: Dive into the universal message of God's sovereignty and the spread of His reign. Connect these verses to the fulfillment in the New Testament.

In these verses, we delve into the universal message of God's sovereignty and the expansion of His reign over all nations. The text emphasizes the inclusivity of God's salvation, reaching far beyond the immediate audience. This message finds fulfillment in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus and the spread of the Gospel to all corners of the world. It highlights the timeless truth that God's lordship extends to all nations and that His redemptive plan encompasses people from every background, reflecting the global reach of Christianity as it spread throughout the world.

Argumentation: Discuss how the message of Christ's lordship extends to all nations, as seen in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), inspiring the congregation to be ambassadors of this message.

The message of Christ's lordship extending to all nations is a fundamental teaching in Christianity. It is beautifully exemplified in the Great Commission, as found in Matthew 28:19-20. In these verses, Jesus instructs His disciples to "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."

This Great Commission embodies the universal scope of Christ's lordship. It conveys the idea that His authority and message are not confined to a specific group or location but are meant for all people, in every corner of the world. It's an invitation for believers to actively participate in spreading the good news of Christ's lordship to the entire human family.

In practical terms, this means that as Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ's message, sharing His teachings and the hope of salvation with people from all nations and backgrounds. We are tasked with not only proclaiming His lordship but also living out His teachings in our own lives. This global perspective challenges us to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, embracing the diversity of God's creation, and carrying the message of Christ's love and redemption to all, just as He intended.

Therefore, when discussing how the message of Christ's lordship extends to all nations and connecting it to the Great Commission, the congregation is inspired to take an active role in fulfilling this divine mission by being ambassadors of the message, making disciples, and sharing the transformative power of Christ's lordship with people from every part of the world.

Verses 27-28: The Vision of Future Generations

Explanation: Explore the psalmist's vision of future generations worshiping the Lord. Discuss how this anticipates the growth of the Church through the ages.

In verses 27-28 of Psalm 22, we encounter the psalmist's vision of future generations worshiping the Lord. These verses emphasize the anticipation of a time when not only the present generation but also future generations will come to recognize and worship God. It's a prophetic insight into the growth and expansion of the Church through the ages.

The vision expressed in these verses is significant for several reasons:

Inclusivity: The psalmist's vision extends beyond the immediate context and the people of their time. It encompasses people from all generations and backgrounds, highlighting the universal appeal of God's message. This inclusivity underscores the idea that the message of faith and worship is not limited to a specific time or group but is meant for all people throughout history.

Anticipation of the Church: These verses also anticipate the growth and perpetuity of the Church. The Church is seen as a community of believers, spanning generations, where the worship and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty continue to flourish.

Continuity of Faith: The psalmist's vision underscores the continuity of faith through the ages. It is a reminder that the faith of one generation can be passed on to the next, leading to an ever-expanding community of believers. This is a beautiful reflection of the generational aspect of faith, where the torch of belief is carried forward by each succeeding generation.

Connecting this vision to the growth of the Church through the ages, we can see how the message of faith, worship, and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty has indeed transcended time and place. It's a testament to the enduring nature of the Christian faith and the remarkable way in which believers from different generations have continued to embrace and worship the Lord. The vision in these verses reminds us that our worship and faith are part of a larger, timeless narrative that stretches across generations and continues to shape the Church.

Illustration: Share a contemporary example of the global reach of Christianity, emphasizing the enduring impact of faith across generations.

Christianity that emphasizes the enduring impact of faith across generations is the story of the annual "Hillsong Conference" in Sydney, Australia.

The Hillsong Conference is a large-scale Christian event that attracts tens of thousands of attendees from all over the world. What makes this event particularly noteworthy is its impact on a wide range of generations, from young children to the elderly, and its ability to unite people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Here's how it demonstrates the enduring impact of faith across generations:

Multigenerational Attendance: The Hillsong Conference is known for its multigenerational appeal. It's not uncommon to see grandparents, parents, and children attending together. The conference features sessions and activities tailored to different age groups, ensuring that every generation can engage with their faith in a meaningful way.

Global Participation: People from various corners of the world converge on Sydney for this event. They bring with them their unique cultural perspectives, languages, and backgrounds, emphasizing the global reach of Christianity. This international gathering highlights how the message of Christ transcends geographical boundaries.

Worship Through Music: The Hillsong Church, which organizes the conference, is renowned for its contemporary Christian music. Their worship songs have become a global phenomenon, resonating with believers across generations. The lyrics and melodies serve as a unifying force, fostering a shared experience of faith and worship.

Enduring Impact: The Hillsong Conference has been taking place for several decades, and its continued success underscores the enduring impact of faith across generations. Families have been attending for years, passing down their faith traditions to their children and grandchildren. The conference serves as a symbol of the enduring nature of Christianity and its ability to inspire and shape the lives of multiple generations.

The Hillsong Conference is just one of many contemporary examples that illustrate how Christianity's message has an enduring impact across generations and continues to reach people worldwide. It showcases the power of faith to unite people from diverse backgrounds and age groups in a shared experience of worship and spiritual growth.

Verses 29-31: The Inclusivity of God's Salvation

Explanation: Conclude by discussing the inclusivity of God's salvation and the future generations who will serve Him, solidifying the message of hope and redemption. Application: Invite the congregation to consider their role in passing on the message of Christ's redemption to future generations, urging them to be a part of this legacy.

In verses 29-31 of Psalm 22, we find a powerful message of inclusivity regarding God's salvation. The psalmist's words reach far beyond the immediate audience and resonate with a future that is filled with hope and redemption. These verses emphasize that God's salvation isn't limited by time, place, or heritage, and it's a message that transcends generations.

Elaboration:

A Message for All People: These verses convey the universal appeal of God's salvation. God's grace extends to every nation and every generation, offering redemption to anyone who seeks it. It's a timeless message of hope that knows no boundaries.

The Promise of a Bright Future: The psalmist's words point to a future where people from diverse backgrounds will worship the Lord. This future generation represents the enduring legacy of faith, where the message of Christ's redemption continues to be proclaimed.

Application: Passing on the Legacy of Faith

Now, let's delve into how we can apply these profound principles in our lives and within the congregation:

Elaboration:

Be Part of the Legacy: We are invited to be part of this legacy of faith that spans across generations. Just as the psalmist looked forward to future generations serving the Lord, we, too, have a role in passing on the message of Christ's redemption to the next generation.

Mentoring and Discipleship: In practical terms, this means engaging in mentoring and discipleship. We can impart our knowledge and experiences of God's grace to those who are younger in the faith, ensuring that the message of hope and redemption is carried forward.

Examples:

Sunday School Programs: Many churches have vibrant Sunday School programs where the younger generation is nurtured in the faith. Adults in the congregation can volunteer to teach, guide, and share their faith with the children and young people.

Youth Groups: Youth groups and ministries offer a platform for older members of the congregation to engage with and mentor the younger generation. It's a place where the message of Christ's redemption can be reinforced and passed on.

Family Devotions: Within our families, we can establish a tradition of family devotions, where faith is discussed, and the message of hope is shared. It's an opportunity to teach the younger members of our families about God's enduring love.

Conclusion (3 minutes)

In conclusion, we have journeyed through the profound and prophetic words of Psalm 22, dissecting each verse to understand the depth of the Messiah's suffering and the height of His victory. We've witnessed the parallel between the Old and New Testaments and found hope and redemption in the midst of suffering. As we leave this sanctuary today, may we take with us the timeless truth of Psalm 22. These verses in Psalm 22 inspire us to recognize our part in the legacy of faith. We have the privilege and responsibility of ensuring that the message of Christ's redemption is carried forward to future generations, securing a future filled with hope and an enduring impact of God's salvation. It's an invitation to actively engage in mentoring, teaching, and discipleship, fostering a faith that spans generations and unites us in the message of hope and redemption.

Let us remember that no matter how deep our suffering, how heavy our burdens, or how intense our trials may be, there is victory on the other side. Our Messiah has triumphed, and through Him, we can find hope and redemption.

I encourage each one of you to embrace this message, to place your trust in the Messiah's victory, and to share this hope with a world that so desperately needs it. As we depart, may our hearts be filled with the assurance that our Redeemer lives, and through Him,