"He was numbered with the transgressors" (Isaiah 53: 12).
This wonderful condescension was justified by many powerful reasons. In such a character He could better become their advocate. In some trials there is an identification of the counselor with the client. Now, when the sinner is brought to the court, Jesus appears there Himself. He stands to answer the accusation. He points to His side, His hands, His feet and challenges Justice to bring anything against the sinners whom He represents. He pleads His blood so triumphantly that the Judge proclaims, "Let them go their way; deliver them from going down into the pit, for He hath found a ransom." Our Lord Jesus was numbered with the transgressors in order that they might feel their hearts drawn toward Him. Who can be afraid of one who is written in the same list with us? Surely we may come boldly to Him and confess our guilt. He who is numbered with us cannot condemn us. He was holy, while we were guilty. He transfers His name from the list of the holy to this black indictment, and our names are taken from the indictment and written in the roll of acceptance. There is a complete transfer made between Jesus and His people. All out estate of misery and sin Jesus has taken, and all that Jesus has comes to us. Rejoice, believer, in your union to Him who was numbered among the gransgressors. Prove that you are truly saved by beiing manifestly numbered with those who are new creatures in Him.