Scripture References:
- Isaiah 53:4-6
- 2 Corinthians 5:17
- 1 John 4:17-19
When we reflect on Christ’s sacrifice, two pairs of words stand out: transgressions and wounds, iniquity and bruises. These words hold deep meaning in understanding what Jesus has done for us.
Transgressions and Iniquity: The External and Internal Struggle
Transgressions refer to acts of trespassing—stepping over a boundary. These are external, visible sins, actions that people can see.
Iniquity, on the other hand, is the internal root—immoral or unjust behaviour hidden within us. It is the desire to cross the line before the act even happens.
If we think of transgressions as actually breaking a law, iniquity is the temptation that leads us there. The internal battle always precedes the outward sin.
Wounds and Bruises: The Price Paid for Our Redemption
Wounds are external—they appear on the skin and are visible to others. Bruises, however, are internal—they happen beneath the surface, affecting us inwardly.
Isaiah 53:5 says:
“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities…”
The Bible is precise in its wording. Jesus was wounded (externally hurt) for our transgressions (external sins) and bruised (internally hurt) for our iniquities (internal sins).
This means Christ didn’t just suffer for our visible sins—He bore the cost of our hidden struggles, the deep desires we battle with. If lust is an iniquity, the transgression is acting on that lust. Jesus’ suffering covered both.
A New Creation in Christ
Through Jesus, we are not only forgiven but transformed. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
This is the beauty of salvation—Christ didn’t just deal with what people see; He cleanses what only we and God know about. Even in our deepest sins, He still loves us completely.
The only sin left uncovered is rejecting Him. But as long as we accept His sacrifice, we are washed clean.
As He Is, So Are We
Jesus died for our imperfections so that in Him, we could be made perfect. 1 John 4:17 reminds us:
“As He is, so are we in this world.”
Because of Christ, we are not just saved—we are new, whole, and loved beyond measure.