What has always been clear is that Jesus was the promised savior. Throughout the Old Testament, it was prophesied that the Messiah — the one who would save the world — was coming. Perhaps the most telling passage is in Isaiah, when it is proclaimed that He will be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. It is estimated that the prophet Isaiah lived around 700 years before the birth of Jesus, but when Matthew wrote his gospel hundreds of years later, he cited the Old Testament prophecy and declared it fulfilled with the coming of Jesus. The promised King is exactly who it was foretold He would be.
“For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.” Isaiah 9:6-7
He is the Wonderful Counselor. In the Psalms, David wrote, “I will praise the Lord who counsels me, even at night my heart instructs me” (Psalm 16:7). In John, Jesus wept over the death of his friend Lazarus even though he knew that Lazarus would live again. Throughout his ministry, Jesus offered compassion, forgiveness, and advice to those who were struggling.
He is the Prince of Peace. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27) Through Jesus, we have peace that surpasses all understanding.
He is the Everlasting Father. Isaiah spoke that Jesus, the son of God, would be the Everlasting Father. This is a descriptor of the character of Jesus as he walked the earth with a fatherly love and compassion for those around him. Through Jesus, we are able to see the divine and perfect love of our Heavenly Father. John wrote that Jesus said, “My father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
As this year of uncertainty and unprecedented times draws near to its end, let us remember that He is who He says He is.