2024-12-08
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Today we continue examining just two verses which are forever linked to this time of year. At Christmastime, we have the opportunity for a great reset in our thinking towards God and His greatest gift. We should determine to use this time to refocus our attention on the GIFT of God rather than being distracted by the gifts of the season.
Isaiah 9:6–7 (NKJV) 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. 7Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.
1. The wonder of Christ
Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called Wonderful…
- Pelé – describes an astonishing thing, something that amazes
- Matthew 7:28 – “…the crowds were astonished at His teaching…”
- One of the greatest mistakes a believer can make is to lose a sense of awe of Christ
- If He was astonishing then, He is more so now!
2. The inspiration of Christ
Isaiah 9:6b … And His name will be called…Counselor…
- yāʿaṣ is actually a verb which indicates it doesn’t just describe Him, it is a picture of what He is continually in our lives
- When we are perplexed as to what we should do in situations in our life, it is not because He has stopped counseling, it is because we have ceased listening
- The counsel we receive from Him inspires us to live better, love better and thrive
3. The power of Christ
Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Mighty God…
- Gibôr (Mighty) – indicates He is our champion, hero and angel
- This description would set Him apart from any other portrayal of foreign deities; namely, He is not one of our gods, but rather the sole deity. The one and only God.
- This leads us to never question His place in our lives. The reason the crowds were astonished at His teaching is because He is unlike any other.
4. The presence of Christ
Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Everlasting Father…
- Ad ‘āḇ – our eternal God, the one who has always been and started it all
- Not only is He mighty, as indicated above, He is forever
- In life, we often see people who rise to power but soon drift away and are forgotten. While their time in leadership was inspiring, we soon lose sight of their impact. With God, this will never happen.
5. The peace of Christ
Isaiah 9:6b And His name will be called…Prince of Peace
- Śar šālôm – chieftain, ruler of rulers, who brings about completeness
- People often find themselves empty, without purpose, drifting through life. Recognizing Him for who He really is the key to eliminating this feeling and finding wholeness.
- The big question remains: how do I do this?
Action:
1. Never lose sight of the goodness of God!
This is only possible through seeking Him daily
- Bible reading
- Devotionals
- Commentaries
- Listening
- The minute you stop taking in more of who He is you will soon stop recognizing Him for what He is!
2. When everything seems difficult, trust His power
Take Him at His word. Trusting God is the first real step towards experiencing “shalom” in life.
- Stop waiting for proof, He’s already given that to us.
3. When everything seems out of control, count on His peace
“Stop the madness” and listen!