Isaiah 9:6 Christmas 2014

The name Isaiah means salvation of the Lord The name Isaiah means salvation of the Lord. Salvation (deliverance) is the key theme of this book.  Isaiah was called to his ministry in the year that King Uzziah died (6:1) (739 BC).  Isaiah ministered through the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (who died in 686).  Tradition says that Manasseh, King Hezekiah's successor, killed Isaiah by having him sawn in half (Hebrews 11:37). The context of Isaiah 9:6 is judgment because of sin. There is constant warfare because of invading armies.  Even in the midst of this constant turmoil God gives a message of hope: “Immanuel” (7:14) – “God with us,” and the promise of a coming deliverer (9:6).

Isaiah 9:6 ( NKJV ) For unto us a Child is born (the Humanity of our Lord Jesus Christ), Unto us a Son (the Deity of our Lord Jesus Christ) is given; That's it! That is the Christmas message! The rest of the verse is 2nd Advent! And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Some see 2 titles here - Wonderful and Counselor, but it is best seen as a couplet like the following 3 titles. "Wonderful" pele' (H6382 - TWOT 1768a) a wonder; a marvel; extraordinary; hard to understand; a miracle; a marvelous thing. Refers to the acts of God that are unusual, beyond human capabilities. It awakens astonishment in man. It is translated "too hard" in Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17, 27.

"Counselor" ya'ates (H3289 - TWOT 887) to advise; to deliberate; to resolve; to counsel; to determine; to devise; to guide. Refers to a well thought out plan; reflects the careful deliberation that goes into planning for battle or for defense; strategy. Cf. Acts 2:23; 4:28; Ephesians 1:11; Hebrews 6:17. The NET Bible translates these 2 words, "extraordinary strategist."

Here it probably refers to the King’s ability to devise military strategy, as suggested by the context (cf. vv. 3-4 and the following title, El Gibbor). The Lord has placed us in the very best possible strategic position for the conflict (involving tactics) facing us. Jeremiah 29:11 shows that God has a wonderful plan for our lives, as does Ephesians 2:10 and 2 Timothy 1:9. 1 John 5:4 shows that we will always have the victory as long as we are walking with the Lord. See Ephesians 1:19.