For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. –
Isaiah 9:6
This is one of the most quoted prophecies concerning the birth of Christ. A couple of chapters earlier, Isaiah had declared that a ‘virgin shall conceive’ and give birth to a son called, ‘Immanuel’.Isaiah 9:6
In this prophecy, he talks a bit more about the birth and mission of the Messiah.
Let’s look at what Isaiah said about the birth and nature of the Messiah.
His humanity:
A child is born. This refers to the human birth of Christ. The key word here is the word, ‘born’. It is the normal word used for natural human birth. Jesus came to the earth through a natural birth. He started life on earth as a baby and grew normally into adulthood. The Lord’s mission as the Saviour of mankind required that He should be clothed in flesh as all human beings are.
His Deity:
A Son is given. This refers to His divine nature and calling. The key word here is, ‘given’. It means ‘to be specially appointed or anointed’. The giving of the Son was an act of God. Isaiah declared that the Messiah would be both, ‘born’ and ‘given’. Son of man; Son of God.
Jesus is our source of Wisdom:
Wonderful Counselor. He is the source of all wisdom. He is our ‘Expert Advisor’. Jesus has the credentials to be our advisor because he is completely trustworthy and wise. His words teach us how to handle all the pressures of life. Let Christ be your Counsellor in every important choice in your career, finances or marriage. May He order your steps in every area of your life.
Jesus is our source of Power:
Mighty God. Jesus demonstrated supernatural power through His life and ministry. He healed the sick. He calmed the wind. He raised the dead. He cast out demons. He had power. He is our source of power. If you want real power, go to Jesus.
The word “mighty” was commonly associated with warfare and has to do with the strength and vitality of a successful warrior. Calling this child “God” in this prophecy is a reference to the divinity of Jesus Christ. Jesus was fully man and fully God.
May the Lord be your Wonderful Counselor and Mighty God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I receive wisdom and power from You today. In Jesus’ name, Amen!Scripture Reading:
Isaiah 9:1-7
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