JESUS, THE MESSIAH April 4, 2006
Isaiah 9:2-7
Dean Honnette, Hope Center

Read the passage and respond to these questions:
            1.  What have “the people” seen and how has their attitude been changed?
            2.  What is the cause of this change in attitude?  Who made that happen?
We live in a pretty informal culture, especially here in California.  We are not given readily to using titles of respect in addressing those around us.  The danger of our informality is the loss of respect due to others in our relationships.  Titles serve as a healthy reminder of a person’s rightful role in our life and in the community.  In today’s text, Isaiah foretells the coming of an amazing individual who will bring light to a people walking in darkness and great joy to their nation.  This child was to grow up and rescue people from oppressors and govern them wisely.  We, of course, know that Isaiah was talking about Jesus our Lord.  This strong word gives the Messiah four titles that remind us of the role Jesus is to have in our lives.
Wonderful Counselor – In our day the title Counselor refers to someone who listens to our problems and suggests some actions we might consider applying.  But when Isaiah used this word it, referred to a King or ruling authority.  So, if we are going to call Jesus our “Wonderful Counselor,” we must recognize that what He gives us are not therapeutic suggestions but royal decrees!
Mighty God – The word mighty in this title was used mostly to describe warriors.  While Jesus had no army, He did show His mighty strength over the realms of nature, disease, and the spiritual forces of evil.  If we call Jesus “Mighty God,” we are calling on Him to battle against the forces of evil not only outside of us, but also those who wage war within us.
Everlasting Father – This title pictures the ultimate loving provider.  When we call Jesus “Everlasting Father” we are not only declaring His complete deity, we are also proclaiming that He alone is the one who provides all that we need to live and move and have life as He intended.
Prince of Peace – Prince is another title for a ruler.  You see, Jesus is not the vendor of peace.  Peace cannot be obtained like food from a grocery story or clothes from a department store.  The peace Jesus offers can be ours only when we consistently submit to His rule over our lives.  To call Jesus “Prince of Peace” is to announce our willingness to be His subject, not a customer at a religious convenience store. So, can you identify any hindrance within yourself to addressing Jesus by these titles?  What must you do to eliminate the hesitation to own these titles of Jesus for your life?
Prayer
Lord God, grant me the humility to address you by your proper titles and truly know my right place under your authority.  Amen.