The picture painted in this scripture is one of mediation, redemption and damnation. It presents the story of salvation, as Jesus hung between two accused individuals. One received eternal life. The other did not. A mediator is a person who “goes between” to resolve conflict. Christ is the ultimate mediator, for Isaiah saw a vision of the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted and His royal robe filled the temple (Isaiah 6:1). Although Jesus was viewed as simply one who had also been accused, He was very much Lord, Savior and mediator on the cross.   

This image should bring us to a point of humility, repentance and great love for Christ. Jesus was in His most vulnerable state, yet still all-powerful and almighty. It is this juxtaposition of humility and surrender with power and authority, compassion and empathy with justice and deliverance, and love and admiration with pain and death that allows us to approach the throne with confidence. Proof that Christ is forever our all-in-all is found in His death, which grants us paradise and immortality. He fearlessly and lovingly stands between us and eternal damnation.

This is the most epic love story in all of history that The Image of the Invisible God, The Master, The Holy One, The Prince of Peace, The Resurrection and The Life, The Messiah thinks that we’re to die for, that our brokenness is worthy to be mended, and that our sins are worthy of forgiveness. This shouldn’t result in an inflated ego or a proud stance, but should bring us to submission and surrender. We should live in awareness of the significance of what Christ has done for us by fostering the mind of Christ, by being more Christ-like in our actions and speech and by extending forgiveness to others.    

Here is Christ nailed, bloody, battered and in agony between two accused. One was verbally abusive, condescending and arrogant. The other confessed with his mouth that Jesus is Lord, acknowledged His power, authority and majesty and believed that His death on the cross was not the end (Romans 10:9). One had faith in Christ; the other lacked faith in Christ. One had hope; the other was hopeless. One accepted the gift of salvation; the other refused the gift of salvation. Which accused are you?