“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.” —Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)

Theologians estimate there were about four hundred years of “silence” from the Old Testament to the New Testament known as the Intertestamental Period. During this time, God was still active in His redemption plan and drawing His people to Himself. The Roman empire was on the rise, King Herod and his family began to rule, and Pharisees and Sadducees started to take their place in the religious system of the day. All the while, for hundreds of years, people were awaiting the coming Messiah.

Then, He came. In a humble stable in the city of Bethlehem, a baby was born in a feeding trough to the virgin Mary and his earthly father, Joseph, just as Scripture foretold. The prophet Isaiah said His name would be called, “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” These four short, powerful statements encompass for us a depiction of Jesus, the Savior, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). 

As Wonderful Counselor, Jesus’ wisdom is far beyond human understanding. He leads and guides us into the way of eternal truth, which is a truth that can never be shaken nor compromised. The term Mighty God reminds us no other person will ever compare to Him, and we can rest in His supreme authority and power. Everlasting Father signifies Jesus is King and the caring protector of His people. Finally, Prince of Peace teaches us Jesus provides ultimate peace and that in Him all things hold together (Colossians 1:17).

“The Christmas story reminds us that Jesus came to dwell among His people, and He came to accomplish what we could never do for ourselves—save us from our sins.”

The most important question one must wrestle with is this: Who is Jesus to you? Scripture teaches in Romans 10:9 (ESV), “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Have you made this decision? If not, what is holding you back from making Him Lord of your life? The Christmas story reminds us that Jesus came to dwell among His people, and He came to accomplish what we could never do for ourselves—save us from our sins.

For more information about the Gospel and accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, please click HERE.