Jesus: From Cradle to Crown

The Prince of Peace

Sunday December 8, 2024 - Pastor Wungreiso Valui

Isaiah 9:6

Bible Verse: "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 (NKJV)

Context: The prophet Isaiah foretold a coming Savior who would be called the "Prince of Peace." This promise gave hope to Israel and all who longed for lasting peace.

Focus: God's promise of peace through Jesus was part of His eternal plan, bringing hope to a world in turmoil.

The Verse

• a. "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given"

Humanity and Divinity: The dual nature of the promised Messiah is suggested here. The "child is born" emphasizes His humanity, while "a son is given" indicates His divinity and the divine initiative in sending the Savior.

Fulfillment: This prophecy aligns with Jesus' birth (Matthew 1:23), where He is both fully God and fully man.

• b. "The government will be on his shoulders"

Authority and Responsibility: The Messiah's sovereign rule contrasts with the corrupt and unstable earthly rulers of Isaiah's time, highlighting the Messiah's ability to bear the weight of governance.

Spiritual Kingdom: Jesus inaugurates this rule not as a political king but as the sovereign of God's eternal kingdom (John 18:36).

• c. "Prince of Peace" (Hebrew: Sar-Shalom)

Definition of Peace (Shalom): The Hebrew word "shalom" encompasses more than the absence of conflict. It signifies wholeness, completeness, harmony, and well-being in every aspect of life-spiritual, physical, relational, and societal. Jesus fulfills this peace by reconciling humanity with God (Colossians 1:20) and breaking down barriers of division (Ephesians 2:14-17).

Messianic Role as the Giver of Peace:

John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you."

Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Jesus provides an inner peace that transcends circumstances (Philippians 4:7).

Eternal Peace: The peace brought by the Messiah is not temporary but everlasting, extending into the eternal reign of His kingdom.

• d. "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father"

These titles, in conjunction with "Prince of Peace," emphasize the Messiah's divine wisdom, power, and divine vision of His perfect reign.

Challenge: Reflect on areas where you need the peace Jesus offers. Are you allowing God's promises to shape your perspective, even in times of uncertainty?

Question: How does knowing that Jesus is the "Prince of Peace" comfort you? In what ways can you share this promise of peace with others?