#19 - Unto Us a Child Is Born – The Profound Meaning Behind His Names (Isaiah 9:6-7)

In this special Christmas Eve episode, we journey into the prophetic depths of Isaiah 9:6-7, unveiling the profound names and titles of the promised Messiah. What does it mean for Jesus to be called “Wonderful Counselor,” “Mighty God,” “Everlasting Father,” and “Prince of Peace”? How do these titles shape our understanding of His identity, mission, and reign? Join Gabe and Dave as they explore the rich historical, theological, and practical significance of this beloved prophecy. Prepare to see Christmas—and the Child born in Bethlehem—through fresh, awe-filled eyes.

✨ Tune in for a discussion that will illuminate your celebration of the Savior’s birth!

This show is named after Navigate The Way ✝️, a Christian AI assistant for navigating the depths of Scripture and theology with clarity and conviction. This show is named after Navigate The Way ✝️, a Christian AI assistant for navigating the depths of Scripture and theology with clarity and conviction. To check out the tool, visit: https://www.navtheway.com/.

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Transcript

### Gabe Langston:

Welcome to another episode of "Navigate The Way." I’m Gabe Langston, and I’m delighted you’ve joined us on this very special day, December 24th, Christmas Eve. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, it’s fitting to focus on one of the most profound and prophetic passages pointing to His identity and mission. Before we dive in, let me remind you to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Now, today’s passage is Isaiah chapter 9 verses 6 and 7. It’s a beloved text that highlights the titles and character of the Messiah. Dave, can you start us off by sharing your thoughts on what makes this passage so significant?

### Dave Brooks:

Thanks for asking, Gabe. I’m Dave Brooks, and it’s a pleasure to be here on Christmas Eve to discuss this truly extraordinary passage. Isaiah chapter 9 verses 6 and 7 sits at the heart of Messianic prophecy. It declares not only who the Messiah is but also the kind of kingdom He inaugurates. These verses are a profound source of hope and assurance that God’s redemptive plan centers on a Child who is born, a Son who is given. It encapsulates the paradox of Christ’s humanity and divinity. To start, why don’t we read the passage?

### Gabe Langston:

Absolutely. Here’s the text from Isaiah chapter 9 verses 6 and 7 in the English Standard Version:

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”

Let’s start with the immediate literary and grammatical context, Dave. What stands out to you?

### Dave Brooks:

What immediately stands out, Gabe, is the poetic structure and the deliberate pairing of titles. The repetition of “for to us” emphasizes the personal nature of this prophecy—it’s not abstract but deeply relational. The parallelism between “a child is born” and “a son is given” highlights both the humanity and divinity of Christ, which are crucial for understanding His role in redemption. His humanity allows Him to be our representative and substitute, as Hebrews chapter 2 verses 17 through 18 explains, while His divinity ensures the sufficiency and perfection of His atonement, as seen in Colossians chapter 2 verse 9, where it says that in Him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily. The phrase “the government shall be upon his shoulder” evokes imagery of royal authority, showing that this is not just a child but a King whose reign is comprehensive and eternal. Gabe, how do you see these titles tying into the broader canonical context?

### Gabe Langston:

That’s an excellent observation, Dave. These titles echo themes that run throughout Scripture. “Wonderful Counselor” brings to mind passages like John chapter 1 verse 14, where Jesus is described as full of grace and truth. “Mighty God” connects directly to John chapter 20 verse 28, where Thomas declares Jesus as “My Lord and my God.” “Prince of Peace” ties to Ephesians chapter 2 verse 14, where Paul writes that Christ is our peace. These titles are not just poetic flourishes; they’re theological anchors that affirm Christ’s deity, wisdom, and role as the ultimate reconciler. Dave, what do you make of the historical and cultural context here?

### Dave Brooks:

The historical backdrop is critical, Gabe. Isaiah prophesied during a time of political instability and Assyrian threat. The promise of a Messiah who would establish an unshakable kingdom spoke directly to the fears of Israel and Judah. Yet, the prophecy transcends its immediate context. It’s not merely about a temporary deliverance but an eternal reign. The term “throne of David” underscores the covenant God made with David in Second Samuel chapter 7 verses 12 through 16, promising an everlasting kingdom. Gabe, how do you see the Christocentric and redemptive-historical perspectives unfolding in this prophecy?

### Gabe Langston:

Isaiah’s prophecy finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Christocentric perspective is unmistakable: only Jesus embodies these titles perfectly. The redemptive-historical angle shows how God’s promises progressively unfold. From the promise in Genesis chapter 3 verse 15 of a seed who will crush the serpent’s head, to the covenant with Abraham in Genesis chapter 12 verses 1 through 3, and then to David, this prophecy is a culmination. Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, His death on the cross, and His resurrection are the climactic acts of this redemptive drama. Dave, let’s delve into “Wonderful Counselor” next. How do you interpret this title?

### Dave Brooks:

“Wonderful Counselor” is rich in meaning. The Hebrew phrase “pelé yo’etz” conveys something extraordinary. “Pelé” implies a divine, miraculous quality—not merely human wisdom. “Yo’etz” indicates a guide or advisor, someone who provides perfect counsel. This is far beyond the wisdom of earthly kings like Solomon. Jesus, as the Word made flesh, embodies divine wisdom. He is the one who guides His people in truth, as seen in John chapter 14 verse 6, where He declares, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” Gabe, how does this title speak to pastoral care and spiritual formation?

### Gabe Langston:

It’s deeply pastoral, Dave. As the “Wonderful Counselor,” Jesus provides clarity and comfort to those burdened by sin and confusion. His teachings, such as the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapters 5 through 7, are not just wise sayings but transformative truths. For spiritual formation, it reminds believers to seek guidance from Christ through prayer and Scripture. Knowing that our Counselor is divine gives us confidence that His advice is infallible and life-giving. Now, let’s move to “Mighty God.” Dave, what does this title reveal about the Messiah’s identity?

### Dave Brooks:

“Mighty God,” or “El Gibbor” in Hebrew, unequivocally asserts the deity of the Messiah. The term “El” is a name for God, often associated with His sovereign power and authority, while “Gibbor” conveys the strength of a warrior or deliverer. This evokes Old Testament themes where God is depicted as a divine warrior, such as in Exodus chapter 15 verse 3, which calls Him “the Lord, a man of war.” In Christ, this title affirms His victory over sin and death, fulfilling the ultimate role of deliverer for His people. The term “El” is a name for God, and “Gibbor” conveys strength and power. This title refutes any notion that Jesus is merely a great teacher or prophet. It aligns with passages like Colossians chapter 1 verses 15 through 17, which describe Christ as the Creator and Sustainer of all things. His might is not limited to physical power; it’s His omnipotence in saving and sustaining His people. Gabe, how does this understanding of “Mighty God” shape our worship?

### Gabe Langston:

It elevates our worship, Dave. Recognizing Jesus as “Mighty God” transforms our view of Him from a distant figure to the very God who upholds the universe. It demands a response of awe and submission. As Hebrews chapter 1 verse 3 declares, He upholds all things by the word of His power. This understanding fuels songs like “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” which celebrate Christ’s divinity. Let’s now consider “Everlasting Father.” Dave, this title can be puzzling at first glance. How do you understand it in light of its original Hebrew and theological significance?

### Dave Brooks:

“Everlasting Father” comes from the Hebrew phrase “Abi’ad.” “Abi” means father, denoting care, provision, and a relational connection. Within the broader Trinitarian framework, this title highlights Jesus’ role as the paternal figure who provides eternal care and guidance to His people. While it does not imply a confusion of roles between the Father and the Son, it emphasizes the unity of their mission and Jesus’ enduring love and protection for His followers. “Ad” means eternal or everlasting, emphasizing Christ’s unending role as a protector and provider for His people. This title doesn’t confuse the roles within the Trinity but rather highlights Jesus’ paternal care over His followers. It reflects passages like John chapter 10 verses 27 through 29, where Jesus speaks of His sheep and assures that no one can snatch them from His hand. Gabe, how does this title inform our understanding of Christ’s redemptive work?

### Gabe Langston:

It’s a profound picture of Christ’s shepherd-like care, Dave. As the “Everlasting Father,” He embodies the perfect love and leadership that earthly fathers can only imitate. His eternal nature ensures that His care is unchanging and reliable, fulfilling promises like Hebrews chapter 13 verse 8, which states that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. This title assures believers of His constant presence and commitment to their well-being. It also reminds us of His authority over creation, as seen in Colossians chapter 1 verse 17, where He is described as holding all things together. Now, let’s consider “Prince of Peace.” Dave, how does this title encapsulate Christ’s mission?

### Dave Brooks:

“Prince of Peace,” or “Sar Shalom” in Hebrew, captures the essence of Christ’s work. “Shalom” signifies not just the absence of conflict but holistic well-being. Jesus’ atoning sacrifice, as described in Isaiah chapter 53 verses 4 through 6, brings peace between God and humanity. This peace is both present and future. Ephesians chapter 2 verses 14 through 17 explains how Christ reconciles us to God and unites us as one body. Gabe, how do you see this title influencing contemporary culture and practical application?

### Gabe Langston:

In a culture plagued by division and unrest, “Prince of Peace” reminds us that true reconciliation begins with Christ. This reconciliation starts with fostering forgiveness in strained relationships, seeking unity within the church, and advocating for justice with grace, as modeled by Christ. For example, Christians can promote peace by volunteering in community reconciliation programs or mediating conflicts in their local congregations, embodying the peace of Christ in tangible ways. However, Christian peace does not mean compromising clear biblical truth to make Christianity more seeker-friendly, nor does it involve avoiding doctrinal clarity or refusing to hold firm positions beyond the essentials. Instead, unity is found when believers are drawn together to the central point of biblical truth and sound doctrine. This divine truth has the unique power to bind together people from diverse backgrounds who might otherwise find no peace or common ground. Such peace is rooted in a shared commitment to Scripture and sound doctrine, which transcends cultural and personal differences. It calls believers to be peacemakers, reflecting the kind of peace that Jesus described in Matthew chapter 5 verse 9, where He said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.' This peace flows from a reconciliation with God and seeks to bring His truth and love into fractured relationships and communities. This peace is enduring and God-honoring, grounded in fidelity to biblical truth, and it encourages us to trust in Christ’s ultimate reign, knowing that He will establish perfect peace, as Revelation chapter 21 verses 1 through 4 describes. Dave, let’s conclude with how Isaiah’s prophecy shapes our understanding of Jesus’ reign as King.

### Dave Brooks:

Isaiah’s prophecy portrays a King whose reign is marked by justice, righteousness, and peace. Jesus inaugurated this kingdom at His first coming, as seen in Luke chapter 17 verse 21, where He says the kingdom of God is in the midst of you. This inauguration, however, contrasts with the eschatological fulfillment of the kingdom, when Christ will return in glory to reign fully and visibly. While the kingdom is now present in a spiritual sense, as described in Luke chapter 17 verse 21, its ultimate realization will bring the complete restoration and renewal of all things, as seen in Revelation chapter 21 verses 1 through 4. This spiritual inauguration contrasts sharply with the eschatological fulfillment of the kingdom, when Christ will return visibly and eternally to reign as the King of kings. Revelation chapter 19 verses 11 through 16 vividly portray this moment of triumphant glory. Gabe, why don’t you wrap us up with a final thought?

### Gabe Langston:

What a rich discussion, Dave. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that the Child born in Bethlehem is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. If this discussion resonated with you, we invite you to submit your favorite Scripture passages for future episodes. Don’t forget to like and subscribe. This show is named after Navigate The Way, a Christian AI assistant for navigating the depths of Scripture and theology with clarity and conviction. The personas for both Dave and I, as well as the content of this episode, were all AI-generated using Navigate The Way. A special thanks to ElevenLabs for our AI-generated voices.