Chasing Truth™: Read the Bible Cover to CoverSample

Great Rejoicing

Isaiah 9:6

Isaiah 9 contains one of the best-known prophecies of the Old Testament predicting the birth of a special child. We hear this prophecy sung at Christmastime and recognize it from George Handel’s great Messiah oratorio: “For unto us a child is born . . .”. Many of us would recognize this version of verse 6:



“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, KJV).

Isaiah 9 tell of great rejoicing coming to the nation of Israel, similar to the joy of military victory. This joy is because of the birth of a child who becomes a ruler with four titles:

•  Wonderful Counsellor

The term counselor here refers to Jesus’ judicial power. Isaiah 11:4 tells us that “with righteousness He will judge.” 

• Mighty God 

This description denotes Jesus’ divinity. Isaiah 9:6 says, “a son is given,” meaning the Son of God. John 3:16 tells us that God gave His only son.

• Everlasting Father

This phrase indicates our Heavenly Father’s enduring compassion. The apostle Paul confirms this by saying, “ . . . God is dealing with you as sons [or daughters]” (Hebrews 12:7, CSB).

• Prince of Peace 

This calming phrase refers to the conditions of Jesus’ reign—a time of peace!

Isaiah confirms this: “They will neither harm nor destroy on my holy mountain”

(Isaiah 11:9, CSB). 

These references can only refer to Jesus of Nazareth. He was not only human, born to the Virgin Mary, but also was the divine Son of God. We know the first part of this prophecy was fulfilled; we look forward with joy to the day of its completion.