Isaiah 9:6
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (NIV)
Today’s Reading: Isaiah 9:1-7
Jesus being fully human and fully God has come to earth to redeem us and take his role as mediator between us and God. Now we learn:
“the government will be on his shoulders.”
The symbolism of putting something on a ruler’s shoulders indicates the power the ruler is given. Carrying the government on his shoulders would symbolize a position of active responsibility. Jesus would be responsible for all of heaven and earth and rule over all of it. Everything in all of creation would be under his authority. Jesus told is disciples before he ascended into heaven, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matt 28:18).
There are two parts to the fulfillment of this prophecy. The first was fulfilled upon Jesus first coming. He came to earth to declare his spiritual kingdom. Jesus declared, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst” (Luke 17:20-21). Jesus’ spiritual kingdom is already here living in the hearts of those who believe in him.
Paul wrote to the Ephesians, “He raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way” (Eph 1:20-23). All things are currently under the authority of Jesus fulfilling Isaiah 9:6.
There will be a second fulfillment of Isaiah 9:6 at Jesus’ second coming. While Jesus sits at God’s right hand with all power and authority over all of creation, Jesus has not yet established his physical government on the earth. At that time, God will create a new heaven and new earth and Jesus will reign on earth. “But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Pet 3:13).
Jesus will return again to establish his earthly kingdom. John saw this future kingdom in a vision: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death” or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’” (Rev 21:3-5). How glorious that day will be!
Christ in the Old Testament 
Leave a comment