In Isaiah, chapter fifty-three, verse four, “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.” This verse is quoted in Matthew eight, verse seventeen, “That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.” The scripture refers to Jesus’ ministry of healing the sick, both physically and spiritually. The word translated “griefs” is literally “sickness” or “infirmities.”
Therefore, the Messiah would endure punishment that we may be delivered from our diseases and sicknesses, as well as from our sins. It is, therefore, right and good for us to pray for physical healing. As He bore our sins, He also took upon Himself the infirmities and diseases that belong to us, and carried them so that we can be freed and healed.
It was for our sins, and in our stead, that our Lord Jesus suffered. We have all sinned and have come short of the glory of God. Sinners have their beloved sin, their own evil way, of which they are fond. Our sins deserve all griefs and sorrows, even the most severe. We are saved from the ruin, to which by sin we become liable, by laying our sins on Christ. This atonement was to be made for our sins. And this is the only way of salvation.
Our sins were the thorns in Christ’s head, the nails in his hands and feet, the spear in his side. He was delivered to death for our offences. By his sufferings, He purchased for us the Spirit and grace of God, to mortify our corruptions, which are the distempers of our souls. We may well endure our lighter sufferings, and to love him who has first loved us.