By The Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

Read Isaiah 9:1-7.

The Rev. Ron Purkey

“They sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” (Revelation 5:9)

First, Isaiah continues his theme, in the Old Testiment, of light and darkness (Isaiah 8:20-22) by announcing, “There will be no more gloom” (Isaian 9:1, niv). The redeemer will come and bring to the world the dawning of a new day (verse 2; Luke 1:78-79; John 8:12). We know that this prophecy refers to Jesus Christ because of the way it is quoted in Matthew 4:13-15. The geographical areas named in Isaiah 9:1 were especially devastated when the Assyrian army moved in, but these areas would be especially honored by the ministry of the Messiah. Jesus was identified with “Galilee of the Gentiles” (Matthew 4:15, niv), and his loving ministry to the people brought light and joy.

Second, the prophet Isaiah looked beyond the first coming of Christ to his second coming and the establishing of his righteous kingdom (Isaiah 9:3-7). Instead of protecting a small remnant, God would enlarge the nation. Instead of experiencing sorrow, the people would rejoice like reapers after a great harvest, soldiers after a great victory (see Judges 6-7), or prisoners of war after being released from their yoke of bondage. Of course, some of this occurred when God defeated Assyria and delivered Jerusalem (Isaiah 37). But the ultimate fulfillment is still future; all military material will be destroyed (Isaiah 9:5) because the nations will not learn war any more (Isaiah 2:4).

Third, Isaiah 9:6 declares both the humanity (“A Child is born”) and the deity (“A Son is given”) of the Lord Jesus Christ. The prophet then leaps ahead to the Kingdom Age when Messiah will reign in righteousness and justice from David’s throne. God had promised David that his dynasty and throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:16); and this is fulfilled literally in Jesus Christ (Luke 1:32-33; Zechariah 9:9), who will one day reign from Jerusalem (Isaiah 11:1-5; Jeremiah 23:5-8; 30:8-10). This kingdom is called “the Millennium,” which means “one thousand years.” The phrase is used six times in Revelation 20.

Fourth, if his name is “wonderful,” then there will be nothing dull about his reign! As counselor, he has the wisdom to rule justly; and as the Mighty God, he has the power to execute his wise plans. “Everlasting Father” does not suggest that the Son is also the Father, for each person in the Godhead is distinct. “Father of Eternity” is a better translation. Among the Jews, the word “father” means “originator” or “source.” For example, Satan is the “father (originator) of lies” (John 8:44, niv). If you want anything eternal, you must get it from Jesus Christ; he is the “Father of eternity.” The Lord Jesus Christ is the redeemer; the savior of the world!

Read Ron Purkey’s free Bible study outlines at rcpbibleoutlines.com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.