Jesus as a young man

Today’s reading takes us out of the Gospels and into the Old Testament, where we’ll explore a powerful Messianic prophecy. These passages, scattered throughout the Hebrew Scriptures, give glimpses of the coming Messiah long before his birth. They reveal God shining a light forward—showing his people what was to come.

From time to time, this plan will pause in places like this, because truly, the whole Bible points to Jesus. And in Isaiah, we find a description of the Messiah that might be nothing like what’s expected. It’s a rare window into the life Jesus would live—especially his growing-up years—and it offers profound insight. There’s so much to discover here, so let’s dive in.

Questions from your reading

• What were some of Jesus’ physical characteristics? In what other ways does this passage highlight his humanity?
• Where do you see the divinity of Jesus in these verses?
• How did Jesus suffer, perhaps even in his younger years?
• What other questions does this passage raise for you?

Reflecting on your reading

Did you notice the unique name for Jesus in the first verse of chapter 53? He’s called the “arm of the Lord”—what an image! Picture God reaching down to earth, extending his arm—and that arm is Jesus. The Creator extends himself toward humanity, offering friendship and reconciliation. When people were still far off, God made the first move in love.

This chapter begins by saying that Jesus would grow up “like a root out of dry ground.” Israel was spiritually dry—hardened soil, hardened hearts. And right in the middle of it all, Jesus grew up.

And then comes the surprising part: this Messiah wouldn’t be impressive to look at. Go back and read Isaiah 53:2 again:

“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him.”

Jesus didn’t come with physical grandeur. He didn’t walk with a royal strut or carry the look of someone raised in a palace. He was ordinary. The King of Kings came into the world looking completely unremarkable.

Hebrews 2:17 says, “Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in all things.” That included growing up from a baby, experiencing puberty, and living through the equivalent of school years. Jesus was extraordinary—but his appearance was not. He had the everyday body of a Jewish male.

Isaiah goes on: “Nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.” Not exactly the image portrayed in films—no flowing blond hair, blue eyes, or perfectly toned physique. Jesus probably looked like Mary, but what about Joseph? Perhaps he resembled his mother more than his earthly father. And in a small-town setting, that wouldn’t go unnoticed—especially among teenage boys. It’s not hard to imagine the teasing or rejection Jesus might have endured for how he looked.

But why? Why would God’s Son be so physically unremarkable? Why not give him striking features or a commanding presence?

Perhaps the answer is in 1 Samuel 16:7:

“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

In a world obsessed with looks and image, God chose to remind us what truly matters.

Applying what you’ve read

Take a few moments to thank Jesus for coming into the world in such an ordinary way—and for enduring hardship, even as a young man. Then, share one thing you’ve discovered today with at least two other people.