by Dr. Al Hearne II 

 

Shore Excursion 17 - Who Is the Child Born to Us?

Isaiah 9:6: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

This prophecy in Isaiah 9:6 captures the hope and promise of the Messiah, a child born to deliver humanity from sin and establish God's eternal kingdom. This verse, written during a time of political turmoil and spiritual rebellion, reminds us that God's plan for salvation was centered on the coming of His Son. Isaiah paints a vivid picture of the Messiah's divine nature, eternal role, and transformative impact on the world.

The prophecy begins with the declaration: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given." The Messiah is fully human (a child is born) and fully divine (a son is given). The child is a gift from God to the world as the ultimate expression of His love and faithfulness. This child would carry the world's weight on His shoulders, bringing lasting significance and reshaping the very structure of human life and destiny. Isaiah then reveals four extraordinary names for the Messiah, each describing an essential aspect of His character and mission.

First, the Messiah is called Wonderful Counselor, emphasizing His unparalleled wisdom and divine guidance. In John 1:1, Jesus is identified as the Word of God, the ultimate source of wisdom and truth. Colossians 2:3 describes Jesus as the one "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, provides guidance not just for individuals but for all humanity, leading us out of the darkness of sin and into the light of redemption.

Second, the Messiah is called Mighty God, affirming His divine power and authority. The Messiah is not merely a human leader but fully God, possessing the power to defeat sin, death, and all forces of evil. Jesus demonstrated His divine might through His miracles (Luke 7:22), authority over nature (Mark 4:39-31), and ultimate victory over death in His resurrection (1 Cor. 15;3-4). In John 10:30, He declares, "I and the Father are one," affirming His unity with God.  

Third, the Messiah is called Everlasting Father, reflecting His eternal care and protection. Jesus embodies a fatherly role as the Good Shepherd, who knows and loves His sheep (John 10:11). In John 8:58, He declares His eternal nature: "Before Abraham was, I am." The Messiah's care is not limited to one moment in history; it extends throughout eternity, providing comfort and assurance to all who trust in Him.

Fourth, the Messiah is called Prince of Peace, signifying His role in bringing harmony and restoration. Jesus reconciles humanity with God through His death and resurrection, breaking down the barriers of sin and death (Rom. 5:1, Eph. 2:14). His rule establishes a kingdom of lasting peace, where all relationships are restored, and God's will is fully realized.

 

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

Isaiah 9:6 reveals the identity of the Messiah: He is both God and Savior, offering wisdom, strength, protection, and peace to all who follow Him. Accepting this truth means recognizing Jesus as fulfilling God's promise and embracing Him as the foundation of our lives.

The Messiah offers clarity, power, comfort, and peace in a world often marked by confusion, weakness, fear, and conflict. To follow Him is to experience the transformation He brings: guidance for our decisions, strength in our struggles, assurance in His eternal care, and harmony in our relationships.

Living in the reality of the Messiah's reign means letting Him carry the weight of our lives on His shoulders, trusting Him as our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

 

Reflective Practice

In what areas of your life do you need Jesus' wisdom as your Wonderful Counselor?

How has the power of the Mighty God been evident in your life, especially in times of struggle or weakness?

In what ways have you experienced the everlasting care of the Messiah in your daily walk with Him?

How can you allow the Prince of Peace to bring harmony and restoration to your relationships and circumstances?

 

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Your Son, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Help us to embrace the truth of who He is and to live in the light of His wisdom, strength, care, and peace. Guide us to trust Him in every aspect of our lives, allowing Him to transform our hearts and minds. May we reflect His character in all we do, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

 

 

[image, A Son Is Given, was created by DALL·E.]