About the Cover: The Lord’s judgment against rebellious people took the form of fiery serpents. But His mercy also took the form of that fiery serpent raised upon a pole for all to see and live. As sinners under God's good Law, our sin brings biting affliction and judgment. But the Son of Man was lifted up upon the cross where God's judgment was poured out against sin. By His Word, we see that the One who was stricken, smitten, and afflicted is our forgiveness, life, and salvation.