he was brought as a lamb to the slaughter
William MacDonald vividly portrays Christ as the innocent Lamb of God who willingly suffered and died as a perfect sacrifice for sinners.
In this moving sermon, William MacDonald reflects on the profound imagery of Christ as the Lamb brought to the slaughter, drawing from Isaiah 53:7. He vividly contrasts the innocence of a lamb with the holiness and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. MacDonald invites listeners to a heartfelt response of gratitude and worship for the Lamb of God who died for sinners.
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“…he was brought as a lamb to the slaughter.” (Isa. 53:7b)
I once saw a lamb die. It was a most moving, most awful sight.
As it was brought to the place of execution, it looked especially lovable. Children would have loved to cuddle it. The young of every species are darling—kittens, puppies, chicks, calves and colts—but a lamb is especially appealing.
As it stood there, it was a picture of innocence. Its white fleece, without blemish, gave the appearance of purity. It was gentle and mild, helpless and defenseless. It’s eyes were especially expressive; they spoke of fear, of pathos and poignancy. There seemed to be no reason why anything so young, so beautiful should have to die.
Now the legs were tied and the pathetic lamb was lying on its side, breathing heavily, as if aware of impending death. With one deft motion, the butcher moved the knife across the throat. The blood poured out over the ground. The little body was convulsed by the death throes, then shortly it lay still. The gentle lamb had died.
Some of the spectators had turned away from the sight; it was too sad to watch. Others were wiping away the tears. No one wanted to speak.
By faith I see another Lamb dying—the Lamb of God. It is a most blessed, most awful sight.
This Lamb is altogether lovely, the chief among ten thousand, the fairest of the fair. As He is brought to the place of execution, He is in the prime of life.
He is not only innocent—He is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, without spot and without blemish. There seems no reason why anyone so pure should ever be put to death.
But the executioners take Him and nail Him to the Cross, hands and feet. There He suffers the concentrated torments and horrors of hell as a Substitute for sinners. Through it all His eyes are filled with love and forgiveness.
Now His suffering time is ended. He dismisses His spirit and His body hangs limp on the Cross. A soldier pierces His side and out gushes blood and water. The Lamb of God has died.
My heart is filled. Scalding tears flow freely. I fall to my knees and thank Him and praise Him! Just to think—He died for me! I will never cease to love Him.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Lamb's Innocence
- The lamb's gentle and pure nature
- Its innocence and defenselessness
- The emotional impact of the lamb's death
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II. The Lamb of God
- Christ as the perfect, spotless Lamb
- His holiness and separation from sin
- The reason for His suffering and death
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III. The Crucifixion and Its Significance
- Christ's suffering as a substitute for sinners
- The physical and spiritual torment endured
- The outpouring of blood and water confirming His death
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IV. The Response of the Believer
- Gratitude for Christ's sacrifice
- Personal love and devotion to the Lamb
- The call to continual praise and worship
Key Quotes
“By faith I see another Lamb dying—the Lamb of God. It is a most blessed, most awful sight.” — William MacDonald
“He is not only innocent—He is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, without spot and without blemish.” — William MacDonald
“My heart is filled. Scalding tears flow freely. I fall to my knees and thank Him and praise Him! Just to think—He died for me!” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Reflect on the purity and innocence of Christ and what His sacrifice means for your life.
- Respond to Jesus' sacrifice with heartfelt gratitude and worship.
- Live a life devoted to honoring the Lamb who died for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Christ called the Lamb of God?
Christ is called the Lamb of God because He is the perfect, sinless sacrifice who takes away the sins of the world through His death.
What does Isaiah 53:7 tell us about Jesus?
Isaiah 53:7 describes Jesus as being led like a lamb to the slaughter, emphasizing His innocence and willing sacrifice.
How does the imagery of a lamb help us understand Jesus' sacrifice?
The lamb symbolizes innocence, purity, and submission, helping us grasp the nature of Jesus' selfless and pure sacrifice for humanity.
What is the significance of the blood and water that flowed from Jesus' side?
The blood and water signify the completeness of Jesus' sacrifice and fulfill Old Testament symbolism related to cleansing and life.
How should believers respond to Jesus' sacrifice?
Believers should respond with gratitude, love, worship, and a commitment to live in devotion to Christ.