The Jesus Prophesies

Born of a Virgin

She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,because he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" --which means, "God with us." Matthew 1:21-23

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary....You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.  Luke 26-27,31-35

In the first place, there is contention whether the word translated "virgin" from Isaiah 7 indeed refers to a virgin or just a young woman with unspecified virginity.  According to many, the Hebrew word used in the texts is "Almah", which is supposed to mean "young woman".  The Hebrew word for "virgin" is "betulah", which is not used.  However Christian apologists dispute this and say that "Almah" actually means a young, unmarried woman (like a maiden), and in those days a young unmarried woman would have also been a virgin.  The apologists say that "betulah" actually means an older virgin, so would not have applied.

But regardless of whether the "virgin" translation is right or not, reading Isaiah 7 and 8 in context, it seems that the meaning has been distorted in the Gospels.  In the text, the people of Judah and their King Ahaz are worried about being defeated and crushed by the kingdoms of Aram and Ephraim.  Isaiah is reassuring King Ahaz that this would not happen, and to demonstrate tells the king to ask for a sign from God.  King Ahaz declines to ask for a sign because he doesn't want to put God to the test.  But Isaiah gives a sign anyway, saying that a virgin/young woman would give birth to a son, and before the boy knows to reject the wrong and choose the right (before he grows up), the land of the two kings (Aram and Ephraim) would be laid to waist, and this would be accomplished by Assyria, "the Lord's instrument".  And in chapter 8, a prophetess indeed gives birth to a son, and before he can say "my father" or "my mother" the wealth of the two kingdoms is carried off by Assyria.  Could this be referring to the birth of Jesus, when the birth of the boy is supposed to be a sign to the king and the people that Judah would not be defeated, and a sign would have to happen BEFORE this?  The birth of Jesus didn't happen until hundreds of years after the defeat of the kingdoms, and hundreds of years after all the the people to whom the sign is given are dead, so could this really be the sign?

In another issue, skeptics point out that the boy was supposed to be named "Immanuel", not "Jesus" (people calling him this today doesn't count since that would just be self-fulfilling prophesy- just like if people believed Elvis to be the Messiah then calling him Immanuel wouldn't be a valid fulfillment either).  Then again, the boy of chapter 8 wasn't named Immanuel either, he was named "Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz".  Yet, in Isaiah 8:8, he cries "Oh Immanuel", and in repetition in verse 10 cries "God is with us", referring back to verse 7:14, seemingly he is proclaiming  "God is on our side", which is why they were not defeated by Aram and Ephraim (or so they thought).  Christian apologists will say however that "Immanuel", meaning "God is with us" refers to the incarnation of God in Christ, making it LITERALLY mean "God is with us".

When Ahaz son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was king of Judah, King Rezin of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel marched up to fight against Jerusalem, but they could not overpower it. Now the house of David was told, "Aram has allied itself with Ephraim"; so the hearts of Ahaz and his people were shaken, as the trees of the forest are shaken by the wind..... Aram, Ephraim and Remaliah's son have plotted your ruin, saying, "Let us invade Judah; let us tear it apart and divide it among ourselves, and make the son of Tabeel king over it." Yet this is what the Sovereign LORD says:" 'It will not take place, it will not happen, ....Again the LORD spoke to Ahaz, "Ask the LORD your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. He will eat curds and honey when he knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right. But before the boy knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right, the land of the two kings you dread will be laid waste. The LORD will bring on you and on your people and on the house of your father a time unlike any since Ephraim broke away from Judah-he will bring the king of Assyria."... Then I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. And the LORD said to me, "Name him Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz. Before the boy knows how to say 'My father' or 'My mother,' the wealth of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria will be carried off by the king of Assyria." The LORD spoke to me again: "Because this people has rejected the gently flowing waters of Shiloah and rejoices over Rezin and the son of Remaliah, therefore the Lord is about to bring against them the mighty floodwaters of the River- the king of Assyria with all his pomp. It will overflow all its channels, run over all its banks and sweep on into Judah, swirling over it, passing through it and reaching up to the neck. Its outspread wings will cover the breadth of your land, O Immanuel!"... Raise the war cry, you nations, and be shattered! Listen, all you distant lands. Prepare for battle, and be shattered! Prepare for battle, and be shattered! Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us.  Isaiah 7:1-2, 5-7, 10-17, 8:3-9

Isaiah 7 in context  Isaiah 8 in context  Jewish translation of Isaiah 7

Isaiah 7:14 He Shall be Named (fill in the blank) by Brad, from "The Agnostic Review of Christianity"

Isaiah 7:14- Deception in the Name of Jesus another one by Brad, from "The Agnostic Review of Christianity"

On the Virginal Conception and Birth of Jesus Christ by J.P. Holding

Isaiah 7:14- Did Isaiah Prophecy the Virgin Birth of Christ? by the Christian Courier

A Virgin Birth Prophecy? by Kenneth E. Nahigian from "The Skeptical Review"

Does the Hebrew Word Alma Really Mean "Virgin"? from "Rabbi Singer answers your question

Response to the Fabulous Prophesies of the Messiah from the Christian Think Tank

Almah: Virgin or Young Maiden? and Does Almah mean Young Woman or Virgin? two essays from Jews for Jesus

How Do Missionaries Paint the Virgin Birth into the Mouth of Rashi? from Outreach Judaism

Isaiah 7:14 from anti-missionary web site

Isaiah 7:14, in Hebrew Means Maiden, not Virgin from Christian Apologetics Research Ministry

A Few Thoughts on Isaiah 7:14 from Reference Counter Missionary

Virgin Birth was not Prophesied by Joseph Alward

Born in Bethlehem

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ was to be born. "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: " 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.' " Matthew 2:1-6

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:4-7

* NIV footnote: "Or rulers"

The gospel writers mistakenly believed this referred to the town of Bethlehem, so they had Jesus being born there.  But the text actually refers to a CLAN of Bethlehem Ephrathah, and is translated as such in the NIV.  In support of this argument, it is translated as "thousands" in the KJV, NKJV, and ASV.  There certainly weren't thousands of towns in Israel, but there would have been thousands of clans.

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me, The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting." Micah 5:2 NKJV 

But thou, Beth-lehem Ephrathah, which art little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall one come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting. Micah 5:2 ASV

Micah 5 in context

However on a side note it was commonly accepted that the Messiah would indeed come from Bethlehem since that was King David's hometown.  So these verses may have been accepted by the Jews as Messianic.

However another issue is whether Jesus was truly born in Bethlehem, as claimed by the writers of Matthew and Luke, or if this was a fabrication in order to have Jesus fulfilling what they perceived to be a prophecy.  It is even acknowledged in the gospel of John to be a problem that Jesus was from Galilee and not Bethlehem.  The writer seems unaware of the claim that he was actually born there, or if he is aware makes no attempt to note it.

Others said, "He is the Messiah." Still others asked, "How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David's descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?" Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.  John 7:41-44

Was Bethlehem Birth Prophesied? by Joseph Alward

Will Come Out of Egypt

So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son."  Matthew 2:14-15

When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. But the more I called Israel, the further they went from me. They sacrificed to the Baals and they burned incense to images. It was I who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them. "Will they not return to Egypt and will not Assyria rule over them because they refuse to repent? Swords will flash in their cities, will destroy the bars of their gates and put an end to their plans. My people are determined to turn from me. Even if they call to the Most High, he will by no means exalt them. Hosea 11:1-7

Hosea 11 in context

Jews for Judaism FAQ question on "Out of Egypt"

Escape to Egypt commentary from freeingthespirit.org

Out of Egypt I Called My Son by Sion 

The Slaughter of the Innocents

When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: "A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more."  Matthew 2:16-18

This is what the LORD says: "A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because her children are no more." This is what the LORD says: "Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for your work will be rewarded," declares the LORD . "They will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future," declares the LORD . "Your children will return to their own land. "I have surely heard Ephraim's moaning: 'You disciplined me like an unruly calf, and I have been disciplined. Restore me, and I will return, because you are the LORD my God. After I strayed, I repented; after I came to understand, I beat my breast. I was ashamed and humiliated because I bore the disgrace of my youth.' Is not Ephraim my dear son, the child in whom I delight? Though I often speak against him, I still remember him. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I have great compassion for him," declares the LORD .  "Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take. Return, O Virgin Israel, return to your towns. How long will you wander, O unfaithful daughter? The LORD will create a new thing on earth- a woman will surround a man."  This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: "When I bring them back from captivity, the people in the land of Judah and in its towns will once again use these words: 'The LORD bless you, O righteous dwelling, O sacred mountain. 'People will live together in Judah and all its towns-farmers and those who move about with their flocks. I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."  Jeremiah 31:15-25

Jeremiah 31 in context

Herod's Slaughter of the Innocents from Rejecting Pascals Wager

He Will be Called a Nazarene

But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene."  Matthew 2:22-23

because you will conceive and give birth to a son...... the boy is to be a Nazirite... Judges 13:5

Others say that Isaiah 11:1 applies, that the word "Nazarene" was the Helenized form of the word for "branch", or has a second/double meaning of  "branch":

A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD  Isaiah 11"1-2

The angel of the LORD appeared to her and said, "You are sterile and childless, but you are going to conceive and have a son. Now see to it that you drink no wine or other fermented drink and that you do not eat anything unclean, because you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor may be used on his head, because the boy is to be a Nazirite, set apart to God from birth, and he will begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines.... The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the LORD blessed him," Judges 13:3-5, 24

Judges 13 in context

Was Matthew Mistaken in the Nazarene Prophecy? by the Christian Courier

Jesus Would be called a Nazarene-- NT/OT Contradiction? by Apologetics Press

Spoken Verses Written Prophesy from "Devoted to Truth"

Nazarene from the Catholic Encyclopedia

The Nazarene by Joseph Alward

Question from the Jews for Judaism FAQ

Lesson 9 from the Bnai Noach Torah Institute

Nazarene Savior Prophecy by Joseph Alward

Messiah's First Spiritual Work to be in Galilee

When Jesus heard that John had been put in prison, he returned to Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali-- to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles-- the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned."  Matthew 4:12-16

Isaiah 9 in context    Jewish Translation of Isaiah 9

Isaiah 9 Historical Event or Prophecy? from Messiah Truth Counter-Missionary Education

Isaiah 9:6 Mistranslations to Support the Trinity from "YHWH our Banner", a

Jews for Judaism FAQ question on Isaiah 9:5-6

Does Isaiah 9:6 Speak of the Messiah? from Heart of Israel, a Jewish/Gentile messianic group

Isaiah 9 from "The Truth Is"

He Took Up Our Infirmities

When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:
   "He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases."  Matthew 8:16-17

He Will Proclaim Justice to the Nations, Will Not Cry Out, a Bruised Reed He Will not Break

 But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.  Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick, warning them not to tell who he was. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:
    "Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope."  Matthew 12:14-21

Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they were fine dust... "Be silent before me, you islands! Let the nations renew their strength! Let them come forward and speak; let us meet together at the place of judgment....The islands have seen it and fear; the ends of the earth tremble. They approach and come forward; In his law the islands will put their hope... "But you, O Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend,  I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you..... "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight;
I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope.... Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise from the ends of the earth, you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, you islands, and all who live in them.... Let them give glory to the LORD and proclaim his praise in the islands.  Isaiah 40:15, 41:1, 5, 8-9, 42:1-4, 10, 12

Isaiah 40 in context  Isaiah 41 in context  Isaiah 42 in context

Isaiah 42 Describes Muhammad from Jews for Allah

Outreach to Judaism- the Two Servants of Isaiah 

He Will Speak in Parables (#1)

The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: " 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.'  Matthew 13:10-15

'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' Make the heart of this people calloused;
make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."  Isaiah 6:8-10

Then I said, "For how long, O Lord?" And he answered: "Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left deserted and the fields ruined and ravaged, until the LORD has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken. And though a tenth remains in the land, it will again be laid waste. But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land."  Isaiah 6:11-13

Isaiah 6 in context

He Will Speak in Parables (#2)

Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet:  "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."  Matthew 13:34-35

O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old- what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD , his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands. They would not be like their forefathers- a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to him.  Psalm 78:1-8

Psalm 78 in context

Will Ride on a Donkey

As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, tell him that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away."  This took place to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet:
"Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.' " Matthew 21:1-5

The disciples went and did as Jesus had instructed them. They brought the donkey and the colt, placed their cloaks on them, and Jesus sat on them.  Matthew 21:6-7

Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written  John 12:14

I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the war-horses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth. As for you, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will free your prisoners from the waterless pit. Return to your fortress, O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you. I will bend Judah as I bend my bow and fill it with Ephraim. I will rouse your sons, O Zion, against your sons, O Greece, and make you like a warrior's sword. Then the LORD will appear over them; his arrow will flash like lightning. The Sovereign LORD will sound the trumpet; he will march in the storms of the south, and the LORD Almighty will shield them. They will destroy and overcome with slingstones. They will drink and roar as with wine; they will be full like a bowl used for sprinkling the corners of the altar. The LORD their God will save them on that day as the flock of his people. They will sparkle in his land like jewels in a crown. How attractive and beautiful they will be! Grain will make the young men thrive, and new wine the young women.  Zechariah 9:10-17

Zechariah 9 in context

A Tale of Two Donkeys from Agnostic Review of Christianity

The Triumphial Entry into Jerusalem from Rejection of Pascal's Wager

Jesus With Two Donkeys or One? from Tektonics.org

Did Matthew Misinterpret Zechariah 9:9? from AboutBibleProphecy.com

Triumphal Entry? by Joseph Alward

30 Pieces of Silver Betrayal Money Will be Used to Buy the Potter's Field

The chief priests picked up the coins and said, "It is against the law to put this into the treasury, since it is blood money." So they decided to use the money to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners. That is why it has been called the Field of Blood to this day. Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: "They took the thirty silver coins, the price set on him by the people of Israel, and they used them to buy the potter's field, as the Lord commanded me."  Matthew 27:6-10

This is what the LORD says: "Go and buy a clay jar from a potter. Take along some of the elders of the people and of the priests  Jeremiah 19:1

Jeremiah said, "The word of the LORD came to me: Hanamel son of Shallum your uncle is going to come to you and say, 'Buy my field at Anathoth, because as nearest relative it is your right and duty to buy it.'  Jeremiah 32:6-7

Zechariah 11 is possibly the Old Testament verse that Matthew had in mind instead of Jeremiah.  But this is yet again not a prophesy of a a field being bought for 30 pieces of sliver but a threat/prophesy that the Jews would be forsaken and handed over to their neighbors.  Included here is allegory of the flock (Israel) being marked for slaughter, of God breaking favor with Israel (breaking the staff called favor), and breaking the brotherhood between Israel and Judah (breaking the union staff).  God is saying he would no longer be Israel's shepherd (breaking the covenant), and seems to be asking for his pay from the people, a paltry 30 pieces of silver.  The people are to throw it into the house of the Lord to the potter (possibly God is here referring to himself as the potter?).   If there seems to be any Jesus type prophesy here, it could be the last part of the chapter, where God is speaking of raising a new shepherd for the land.  This breaking the covenant with Israel and sending a new shepherd fits well with Christian theology.  However I'm sure that Christians wouldn't want to claim this verse applies to Jesus, since the shepherd is to be foolish and worthless and not care for the lost, or seek the young, or heal the injured. So to summarize this chapter, the writer of Zechariah 11 has God saying" You don't want me to be your shepherd?  Fine!  I'll just take my pay and leave! 30 pieces of silver?  Is that all I was worth to you? You'll get a foolish and worthless shepherd instead!" 

So I pastured the flock marked for slaughter, particularly the oppressed of the flock. Then I took two staffs and called one Favor and the other Union, and I pastured the flock. In one month I got rid of the three shepherds. The flock detested me, and I grew weary of them and said, "I will not be your shepherd. Let the dying die, and the perishing perish. Let those who are left eat one another's flesh." Then I took my staff called Favor and broke it, revoking the covenant I had made with all the nations. It was revoked on that day, and so the afflicted of the flock who were watching me knew it was the word of the LORD . I told them, "If you think it best, give me my pay; but if not, keep it." So they paid me thirty pieces of silver. And the LORD said to me, "Throw it to the potter"-the handsome price at which they priced me! So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD to the potter. Then I broke my second staff called Union, breaking the brotherhood between Judah and Israel. Then the LORD said to me, "Take again the equipment of a foolish shepherd. For I am going to raise up a shepherd over the land who will not care for the lost, or seek the young, or heal the injured, or feed the healthy, but will eat the meat of the choice sheep, tearing off their hoofs. "Woe to the worthless shepherd, who deserts the flock! May the sword strike his arm and his right eye! May his arm be completely withered, his right eye totally blinded!"  Zechariah 11:7-17

This is what the LORD says: "Go and buy a clay jar from a potter. Take along some of the elders of the people and of the priests and go out to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, near the entrance of the Potsherd Gate. There proclaim the words I tell you, and say, 'Hear the word of the LORD , O kings of Judah and people of Jerusalem. This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Listen! I am going to bring a disaster on this place that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle. For they have forsaken me and made this a place of foreign gods; they have burned sacrifices in it to gods that neither they nor their fathers nor the kings of Judah ever knew, and they have filled this place with the blood of the innocent. They have built the high places of Baal to burn their sons in the fire as offerings to Baal-something I did not command or mention, nor did it enter my mind. So beware, the days are coming, declares the LORD , when people will no longer call this place Topheth or the Valley of Ben Hinnom, but the Valley of Slaughter. " 'In this place I will ruin the plans of Judah and Jerusalem. I will make them fall by the sword before their enemies, at the hands of those who seek their lives, and I will give their carcasses as food to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth. I will devastate this city and make it an object of scorn; all who pass by will be appalled and will scoff because of all its wounds. I will make them eat the flesh of their sons and daughters, and they will eat one another's flesh during the stress of the siege imposed on them by the enemies who seek their lives.'  Jeremiah 19:1-7

Now Zedekiah king of Judah had imprisoned him there, saying, "Why do you prophesy as you do? You say, 'This is what the LORD says: I am about to hand this city over to the king of Babylon, and he will capture it. Zedekiah king of Judah will not escape out of the hands of the Babylonians but will certainly be handed over to the king of Babylon, and will speak with him face to face and see him with his own eyes. He will take Zedekiah to Babylon, where he will remain until I deal with him, declares the LORD . If you fight against the Babylonians, you will not succeed.' " Jeremiah said, "The word of the LORD came to me: Hanamel son of Shallum your uncle is going to come to you and say, 'Buy my field at Anathoth, because as nearest relative it is your right and duty to buy it.' "Then, just as the LORD had said, my cousin Hanamel came to me in the courtyard of the guard and said, 'Buy my field at Anathoth in the territory of Benjamin. Since it is your right to redeem it and possess it, buy it for yourself.' "I knew that this was the word of the LORD ; so I bought the field at Anathoth from my cousin Hanamel and weighed out for him seventeen shekels of silver. I signed and sealed the deed, had it witnessed, and weighed out the silver on the scales. I took the deed of purchase-the sealed copy containing the terms and conditions, as well as the unsealed copy- and I gave this deed to Baruch son of Neriah, the son of Mahseiah, in the presence of my cousin Hanamel and of the witnesses who had signed the deed and of all the Jews sitting in the courtyard of the guard. "In their presence I gave Baruch these instructions: 'This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Take these documents, both the sealed and unsealed copies of the deed of purchase, and put them in a clay jar so they will last a long time. For this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Houses, fields and vineyards will again be bought in this land.' "After I had given the deed of purchase to Baruch son of Neriah, .... though the city will be handed over to the Babylonians, you, O Sovereign LORD , say to me, 'Buy the field with silver and have the transaction witnessed.' "  Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah: "I am the LORD , the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me? Therefore, this is what the LORD says: I am about to hand this city over to the Babylonians and to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, who will capture it... The people of Israel and Judah have provoked me by all the evil they have done... You are saying about this city, 'By the sword, famine and plague it will be handed over to the king of Babylon'; but this is what the LORD , the God of Israel, says:  I will surely gather them from all the lands where I banish them in my furious anger and great wrath; I will bring them back to this place and let them live in safety  Jeremiah 32:3-32, 36-37

Zechariah 11 in context  Jeremiah 19 in context  Jeremiah 32 in context

Potters Field Prophecy and 30 Pieces of Silver by Joseph Alward

They Will Cast Lots for His Clothing/ His Hands and Feet Will be Pierced (He Will be Crucified)

When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots.* NIV footnote^: A few late manuscripts lots that the word spoken by the prophet might be fulfilled: "They divided my garments among themselves and cast lots for my clothing" (Psalm 22:18) Matthew 27:35

When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. "Let's not tear it," they said to one another. "Let's decide by lot who will get it."  This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled which said, "They divided my garments among them and cast lots for my clothing." So this is what the soldiers did.  John 19:23-24

... a band of evil men has encircled me, they have pierced my hands and my feet.  Psalm 22:16

Part 1 They will cast lots for his clothes:

This is a psalm from the point of view of the writer, supposedly David (identified as such in the title of most translations).  He is poetically expressing feelings of abandonment and isolation, surrounded by evil-doers and oppressors, being pursued and tormented, feeling forsaken by God, but yet still praising God and looking to him for salvation.

The casting of lots for his (David's) clothing shows how destitute he is.  If we are to take this part literally and as a future prophesy of Jesus, then what about the bulls surrounding him and the roaring lions opening their mouths against him?  What about all his bones being out of joint?  And if Psalm 22 applies to Jesus, what about verse 10?: "From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother's womb you have been my God".  That kind of goes against the orthodox Christian doctrine of Jesus eternally co-existing with God, doesn't it?

Part 2 Verse 16- "They have pierced my hands and feet":

There is contention over the translation of "pierced". The Jewish/skeptical position is that this part of the text has been altered or mistranslated and instead should read "like a lion they are at my hands and my feet".  Now if you are Christian this might seem like a desperate speculation in order for skeptics & Jews to explain away a clear allusion to the crucifixion.  Yet, in support of this lion translation, the New International Version of the Bible (as well as several others), has the following footnote at verse 16:  Some Hebrew manuscripts, Septuagit and Syriac; most Hebrew manuscript/ like the lion  (the same word is supposed to be used in Isaiah 38:13).

So whether this verse could be a prophesy of crucifixion entirely hinges on the translation.  Supposedly, the Hebrew word for "pierced" and "like a lion" differ by only one stroke at the end of the word.  

In support of the "like a lion" translation, the Psalm is entirely of a metaphorical style, where the writer is using non-literal motifs to poetically describe his oppressors and tormentors, often using an animal theme.  His is not literally threatened by lions, bulls, and dogs, his heart is not literally turning to wax.  For there to suddenly be a description of hands and feet being literally pierced goes against the style.  Its also hard to see why this was not quoted as a prophesy by the Gospel writers if the pierced translation is indeed valid.  If so you would think that especially Matthew was have used it.  But read the links below and decide for yourself.

Psalm 22 in context  Jewish Translation of Psalm 22

Does Psalm 22 Prophesy the Crucifixion of Christ? from the Christian Courier

http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Prairie/1551/writings/ps22.htm

http://www.jewsforjudaism.org/web/faq/faq057.html

http://outreachjudaism.org/like-a-lion.html

Why Psalm 22 Has Nothing to do With Jesus' Death from the Gospel According to PD

Psalm 22 from anti-missionary web site

He Will be Numbered With the Transgressors

They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right and one on his left.  Mark 15:27 NIV footnote: 'Some manuscripts left, 28 and the scripture was fulfilled which says, "He was counted with the lawless ones"  (Isaiah 53:12)'

It is written: 'And he was numbered with the transgressors'; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment."  Luke 22:37

He Will Give Sight to the Blind

The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."  Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him, and he began by saying to them, "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing."  Luke 4:17-21

And once again, reading the Old Testament verses in context shows that this is about the people of Israel.  The writer is giving hope, promising that Israel's favor with God would return, and their land and ruined cities would be restored. They would again dominate their neighbors, instead of being subservient to them.  This certainly wasn't fulfilled in Jesus, since a mere 40 years later the Romans would totally destroy Jerusalem and send the Jews into exile.

They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. Aliens will shepherd your flocks; foreigners will work your fields and vineyards. And you will be called priests of the LORD , you will be named ministers of our God. You will feed on the wealth of nations, and in their riches you will boast. Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.  "For I, the LORD , love justice; I hate robbery and iniquity. In my faithfulness I will reward them and make an everlasting covenant with them. Their descendants will be known among the nations and their offspring among the peoples. All who see them will acknowledge that they are a people the LORD has blessed."  Isaiah 61:4-9

Isaiah 61 in context 

He Will Suffer, Die, and Rise on the Third Day

Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him, spit on him, flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again."  Luke 18:31-33

He said to them, "This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms." Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.  Luke 24:44-47

What Third Day Prophecy? from the Skeptical Review

The Jews Would Not Believe in Him

Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet: "Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?" For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: "He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn--and I would heal them. "Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus' glory and spoke about him.  John 12:37-41

Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull
and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."  Isaiah 6:10

Then I said, "For how long, O Lord?" And he answered: "Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left deserted and the fields ruined and ravaged, until the LORD has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken. And though a tenth remains in the land, it will again be laid waste. But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land." Isaiah 6:11-13

Isaiah 6 in context 

For Isaiah 53, the contention is over whether this applies to Israel or to Jesus. "Who has believed OUR message" could be Israel/the prophets speaking (they are wondering who, of the heathen nations has believed their message about their God Yahweh).  "To whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?" shows the the subject is Israel of course, since they believed it was to Israel that God/Yahweh had been revealed.  See also the section on Isaiah 53 below.  In any event this is certainly no unambiguous "the Jews will not believe in the Messiah" prophesy as is alluded to. 

He Will be Betrayed by a Friend

The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus..... For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.... "I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: 'He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.'.... After he had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, "I tell you the truth, one of you is going to betray me."  John 13:2,11,18,21

Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the LORD delivers him in times of trouble. The LORD will protect him and preserve his life; he will bless him in the land and not surrender him to the desire of his foes. The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness. I said, "O LORD , have mercy on me; heal me, for I have sinned against you." My enemies say of me in malice, "When will he die and his name perish?" Whenever one comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it abroad. All my enemies whisper together against me; they imagine the worst for me, saying, "A vile disease has beset him; he will never get up from the place where he lies." Even my close friend, whom I trusted, he who shared my bread, has lifted up his heel against me. But you, O LORD , have mercy on me; raise me up, that I may repay them. I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not triumph over me. In my integrity you uphold me and set me in your presence forever. Praise be to the LORD , the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and Amen.  Psalm 41

If this applies to Jesus, then what about verse 4?: ^"I said, "O LORD , have mercy on me; heal me, for I have sinned against you."  Did Jesus, who is supposed to be without sin, sin against God? 

He Will be Hated for No Reason

If I had not done among them what no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen these miracles, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: 'They hated me without reason.'  John 15:24-25

Those who hate me without reason outnumber the hairs of my head;
many are my enemies without cause, those who seek to destroy me. I am forced to restore what I did not steal.  Psalm 69:4

Contend, O LORD , with those who contend with me;
fight against those who fight against me. Take up shield and buckler;
arise and come to my aid. Brandish spear and javelin against those who pursue me. May those who seek my life be disgraced and put to shame; may those who plot my ruin be turned back in dismay.... O Lord, how long will you look on? Rescue my life from their ravages, my precious life from these lions. I will give you thanks in the great assembly; among throngs of people I will praise you.... Let not those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; let not those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. Psalm 35:1-4,17,18,19

Psalm 35 in context

Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me. I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God. Those who hate me without reason outnumber the hairs of my head; many are my enemies without cause, those who seek to destroy me. I am forced to restore what I did not steal. You know my folly, O God; my guilt is not hidden from you..... The LORD hears the needy and does not despise his captive people. Let heaven and earth praise him, the seas and all that move in them, for God will save Zion and rebuild the cities of Judah. Then people will settle there and possess it; the children of his servants will inherit it, and those who love his name will dwell there.  Psalm 69:1-5, 33-36

Psalm 69 in context

He Will be Given Vinegar to Drink

Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips.  John 19:28-29

Psalm 69 in context 

Not One of His Bones Will be Broken/ He Will be Pierced

But when they came to Jesus and found that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water. The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled: "Not one of his bones will be broken," and, as another scripture says, "They will look on the one they have pierced." John 19:33-37

They are to celebrate it on the fourteenth day of the second month at twilight. They are to eat the lamb, together with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. They must not leave any of it till morning or break any of its bones. When they celebrate the Passover, they must follow all the regulations.  Numbers 9:11-12

he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.  Psalm 34:20

... They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.  Zechariah 12:10

The LORD said to Moses and Aaron, "These are the regulations for the Passover: "No foreigner is to eat of it. Any slave you have bought may eat of it after you have circumcised him, but a temporary resident and a hired worker may not eat of it. "It must be eaten inside one house; take none of the meat outside the house. Do not break any of the bones. The whole community of Israel must celebrate it.  Exodus 12:43-47

Psalm 34 is not a prophecy of a messiah either.  It is a call for people to be righteousness, promising that God will give them protection, extend their days, deliver them from their troubles (and protect their bones):

I sought the LORD , and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. This poor man called, and the LORD heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles... Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.... The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.  Psalm 34:4-6,12-14, 17-20

For Zechariah 12, the contention is over WHO is the one pierced.  A plain reading of the text implies that it is God who is pierced.  The text has God speaking in the first person, saying figuratively that he has been pierced by the people, they have pierced/hurt him by their rejection of him, worshipping other gods, the usual stuff. Notice that the text of Zechariah says "they will look upon me, the one they have pierced", while the text of John says "they will look upon the one they have pierced" (some Bible versions, like the KJV, translate "they will look upon him").

In support of the Jesus interpretation, the text then suddenly switches to the third person and speaks of the people grieving and mourning "for him" as one grieves over an only child/firstborn son.  And even some Jewish interpretations consider that there is someone killed here.  Yet the text could still be referring to the people mourning over their iniquity to God, saying that the mourning would be so great it would be as if they were mourning over a firstborn. 

On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves. On that day I will strike every horse with panic and its rider with madness," declares the LORD . "I will keep a watchful eye over the house of Judah, but I will blind all the horses of the nations. Then the leaders of Judah will say in their hearts, 'The people of Jerusalem are strong, because the LORD Almighty is their God.' "On that day I will make the leaders of Judah like a firepot in a woodpile, like a flaming torch among sheaves. They will consume right and left all the surrounding peoples, but Jerusalem will remain intact in her place. "The LORD will save the dwellings of Judah first, so that the honor of the house of David and of Jerusalem's inhabitants may not be greater than that of Judah. On that day the LORD will shield those who live in Jerusalem, so that the feeblest among them will be like David, and the house of David will be like God, like the Angel of the LORD going before them. On that day I will set out to destroy all the nations that attack Jerusalem.  "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.  Zechariah 12:3-10

Exodus 12  Numbers 9  Psalm 34  Zechariah 12

A Piercing Look at a False Claim from Messiah Truth, a counter-missionary group

Zechariah 12:10 another one from Messiah Truth

Jewish Messianic Interpretations of Zechariah 12:10 from Jews for Jesus

Question on Zechariah 12 from the Jews for Judaism FAQ

Today You Have Become My Son/ He Will be Resurrected/Not See Decay

he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: " 'You are my Son; today I have become your Father.' The fact that God raised him from the dead, never to decay, is stated in these words: " 'I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.' So it is stated elsewhere:  " 'You will not let your Holy One see decay.'  Acts 13:33-35

because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay.  Psalm 16:10

Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the LORD and against his Anointed One. "Let us break their chains," they say, "and throw off their fetters." The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. Then he rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, "I have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill." I will proclaim the decree of the LORD : He said to me, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father. Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. You will rule them with an iron scepter; you will dash them to pieces like pottery."  Psalm 2:1-9

Psalm 16 is yet another Psalm that is supposed to be authored by David, and his from his point of view.  Here he is expressing confidence that God would preserve his life, not let him be killed.  But does the 2nd part of verse 10 anticipate the resurrection of the Messiah, or is David still saying that God would protect him (David) from death?  There is contention over the translation of "Holy One".  First, note that the capitalization of "Holy One" implies some type of title, that presumably would apply to Jesus.  Yet remember there was no capitalization in the original text, this would be a modern, Christian interpretation.  Also, the NIV has a footnote that an alternate translation is "your faithful one".  And the Jewish translation of verse 10 portrays an entirely different picture, that David is referring to himself as the godly one: "For Thou wilt not abandon my soul to the nether-world; neither wilt Thou suffer Thy godly one to see the pit".

The sorrows of those will increase who run after other gods. I will not pour out their libations of blood or take up their names on my lips. LORD , you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay.  Psalm 16:4-10

Psalm 2 in context   Psalm 16 in context

Question: The respective Jewish and Christian translations of nash-ku bar (Psalms 2:12) differ from each other. What is the proper translation? from Jews for Judaism FAQ

The Use of Psalm 16:8-11  in Acts 2:25-28 from The Biblical Studies Foundation

Psalm 16 a study from a Christian perspective

Jewish Translation of Psalm 16

Isaiah 53: The Suffering Servant

When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: "He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases."  Matthew 8:16-17

They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right and one on his left.  Mark 15:27 NIV footnote: 'Some manuscripts left, 28 and the scripture was fulfilled which says, "He was counted with the lawless ones"  (Isaiah 53:12)'

It is written: 'And he was numbered with the transgressors'; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment."  Luke 22:37

Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him, spit on him, flog him and kill him. On the third day he will rise again."  Luke 18:31-33

One view is that the suffering servant is Israel.  Isaiah 52, and 53 are connected and both speak of the same suffering servant (remember there were no chapter divisions in the original text).  The servant is identified as Israel in Isaiah 52.  Note also that many of the modern translations place a title heading of "the suffering servant" (or something similar) in chapter 52 between verse 12 and 13.  This serves as an artificial break, dividing the text that is about the servant (verse 13 and beyond) from the text that is about Israel (up to verse 12), when again the title headings are a modern device and did not exist in the original text (the Jewish translation does not include such a break).

Awake, awake, O Zion, clothe yourself with strength... Shake off your dust; rise up, sit enthroned, O Jerusalem. Free yourself from the chains on your neck, O captive Daughter of Zion... "You were sold for nothing, and without money you will be redeemed.... For my people have been taken away for nothing, and those who rule them mock," declares the LORD . "And all day long my name is constantly blasphemed... Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem. The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.... See, my servant will act wisely ; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted. Just as there were many who were appalled at him (NIV footnote: 'Hebrew you') his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness- so will he sprinkle many nations, and kings will shut their mouths because of him. For what they were not told, they will see, and what they have not heard, they will understand.  Isaiah 52:1-3, 5, 9-10, 13-15

Even if it is conceded that Isaiah 53 is not about Israel but is about an individual who is punished for the sins of others, then it fits Jesus only if you first believe that he indeed was punished for the sins of others.

There is also contention over the translation of  Isaiah 53 verse 5.  It is translated "he was pierced FOR our transgressions" in Christian translations, yet the Jewish position is that it should be translated "he was WOUNDED BY our transgressions".  Also, skeptics/Jews will point out that verse 10 says "he will see his offspring and prolong his days", since Jesus had no offspring and didn't have a long life.  Of course the Christians can say that "offspring" was referring to some kind of spiritual offspring (his followers) and the prolonged days part was fulfilled by his resurrection and ascension into heaven (eternity sure IS a prolonging of days!)  Another thing pointed out by the skeptics/Jews as not fitting Jesus, is that according to the gospels Jesus was not silent before his accusers as the suffering servant of Isaiah 53 is described, but engaged in a verbal exchange with Pilate. 

As a side note with verse 11, in the New International Version the text "After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life"  sounds like a DEFINITE reference to the resurrection.  Yet, the NIV is the only version that seems to have this reference, other translations are not so "resurrection friendly"-  see here.

Isaiah 52 in context  Isaiah 53 in context  Jewish translation of Isaiah 53

Is Isaiah 53.10 More Likely Referring to Israel than to Jesus? from the Christian Think Tank

Isaiah 53 Did Jesus Have a Long Life? from Outreach Judaism

Was Jesus the "Suffering Servant" of Isaiah 53? from the Christian Courier

The Suffering Servant: Isaiah 53 from Chaim (Christians Announcing Israel's Messiah)

Questions of the Skeptics Weighed: The Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53 from Gospelcom.net

FAQ on the Suffering Servant from Jews for Judaism

A Jewish View of the Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53 by Alyza

Who is the Suffering Servant of Isaiah 53? Index Page from The Hope of Israel

The Suffering Servant in Isaiah 53 from Messiah Truth Project, a counter-missionary group

A Study of Isaiah's Servant from Christian steps.com

The Suffering Servant of Isaiah 52 and 53 from Light of Mashiach, Torah Observant Messianic Judaism

Even if it WERE saying that the Messiah would be a descendant of Abraham, is it all that remarkable that the JEWISH Messiah would be a descendant of Abraham, since ALL Jews are descendants of Abraham? 

Psalm 68 in context

Psalm 72 in context

So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed. I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place.  Isaiah 28:16-17

"The days are coming," declares the LORD , "when I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness Jeremiah 23:5,6; 

'The days are coming,' declares the LORD , 'when I will fulfill the gracious promise I made to the house of Israel and to the house of Judah. 'In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The LORD Our Righteousness.' For this is what the LORD says: 'David will never fail to have a man to sit on the throne of the house of Israel, nor will the priests, who are Levites, ever fail to have a man to stand before me continually to offer burnt offerings, to burn grain offerings and to present sacrifices.'
Jeremiah 33:14-18

Jeremiah 33 in context 

Isaiah 35 in context

They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.  Matthew 27:30-31

Isaiah 50 in context

Isaiah 60 in context

In any event, not exactly a compelling prophesy that's specific to Jesus.  What about God turning his hand against the little ones?

Zechariah 13 from Messiah Truth.com

Behold I am Going to Send My Messenger from The Expository Files

Malachi

Malachi 3 in context

Others prophesied on the OT

Martha Stewart Fulfills Old Testament Prophecy

Debates

The Fabulous Prophecies of the Messiah by Jim Lippard

A Response to Jim Lippard's Fabulous Prophecies of the Messiah from the Christian Think Tank (interestingly, this essay provides no link to the one it is rebutting).

Another Response to Jim Lippard's "The Fabulous Prophecies of the Messiah" by James D. Price. This one is available from Internet Infidels (hmm, interesting that they give space for the opposing view)

Links

Examination of the Prophesies by Thomas Paine

Prophecies of the Old Testament Fulfilled in Jesus Christ from biblia.com- says there are 1093 prophesies fulfilled!

Immanuel from Reading the Old Testament

The Messiah View from the Jewish Virtual Library

Did  the Messianic Jewish Believers use the OT deceitfully or Ignorantly in the New Testament?  from the Christian Think Tank

Messianic Prophesy- Compelling Predictions from "All About God"

Phony Fulfillments by Kyle Williams

Messianic Prophesies from Rejection of Pascal's Wager

A Christian Defends Matthew by Insisting That the Author of the First Gospel Used the Septuagint in His Quote of Isaiah to Support the Virgin Birth by Outreach Judaism

An Explanation of Prophesies Cited by Christians by Tal Zahav, a former Messianic Jew and now a devoutly observant Jew

324 Messianic Prophesies by Hope of Israel

Prophecy Fulfillment: An Unprovable Claim by Farrell Till

Messiah Truth Project: A Jewish Response to Missionary Groups

Christian Misinterpretation of Psalms by Messiah Truth Project

Prophesies Fulfilled by Jesus from thebrownhouse.net, gives one of those "against incredible odds" arguments

Mathematical Probability of Messianic Prophesies Fulfilled- What are the Odds? from Westfield Alliance Church

Messianic Prophesies that Jesus Fulfilled by Denis Schmidt

Is Jesus Really the Son of God and the Promised Messiah? from Prophesy and Current Events

Annie's Jesus Messiah Fulfillment of Prophesy Page from Annie's home page

Figurative Fingerprints: Do They Prove Jesus is the Messiah? from Butterflies for Jesus

Bible Prophecy by Christian Apologetics Research Ministry, includes one of those "against incredible odds" arguments

Mathematical Probabilities of Fulfilled Prophesies  from Family Bible.org

Prophesy Fulfillment and Probability from The Skeptical Review

Did "Top Psychics" Predict Jesus? by Robert M. Price

Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus  from End Times.org

Messianic Prophecies from Clarifying Christianity

Prophecies of Jesus Christ as Messiah from God and Science.org

Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus from Biblical Prophecy Resource Center

Chapter 13- The "Prophesies" of Jesus Christ from "Is it God's Word?" by Joseph Wheless

Mathew's Errors, Distortions, and Misquotes by Hugh Fogelman

Why Don't Jews Believe in Jesus? from aish.com

Counter-Missionary Articles including Messianic Prophecies Refuted, from Ancient Paths

Did Jesus Fulfill the Messianic Prophecies? an honest question from Douglas Rohde on the Christian Inquiry Forum

Messiah Truth Project a Jewish counter-missionary group

300 Prophecies? includes "42 prophesies of a messianic rooster

Messianic Monkeyshines from Tektonics.org

Reader Essays on the Subject

Nothing here yet...... C'mon, anyone?