Isaiah 53:12
Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
ISAIAH 53:12
Verse 12 rounds out the servant’s missionary work with vivid verbs: “Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong.” This underscores paradoxical exaltation following humble service. The servant’s “poured out his soul unto death” and “numbered with the transgressors” reflect the depth of sacrifice and association with sinners. Yet the outcome is triumph: he bears sin for many and intercedes for transgressors. The imagery of spoils and division with the strong aligns with victory language—though the servant has suffered, he is exalted, and the benefits of his work are distributed widely. The passage emphasizes both the servant’s sacrifice and his ongoing intercession. The verse functions as a hinge: the cross’s sorrow yields a victorious mission that continues through intercession.
This verse deepens the understanding of intercession and atonement. Intercession is not a passive pleading but an active, ongoing work that continues in heaven. The “great” and “strong” reference signals victorious status and authoritative access to divine resources. Division of spoils implies triumph shared with those who belong to the servant’s cause—believers receive the fruits of his obedience. The repeated theme of bearing sin for many reinforces substitutionary atonement as the central mechanism of salvation. The servant’s intercession connects his atonement with ongoing relationship between God and humanity.
Consider how you participate in a similar pattern: sacrificing for others while working toward collective good. Practically, this could mean giving financially to support mercy ministries, stepping into leadership to defend the vulnerable, or interceding for friends and neighbors in prayer. The image of interceding for transgressors invites you to be a peacemaker who prays for enemies or those who disagree with you. In daily life, share your “spoils” of grace—encourage, mentor, or invest in others, recognizing that your small acts can contribute to a larger healing narrative. Embrace the paradox of humble service leading to empowered impact.
Cross-References: Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; Acts 5:31; Psalm 68:18; Ephesians 4:8