HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED THE PRINCE OF PEACE!

Isaiah 9:6  "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, Counselor, The might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace"

A Prince was born in Bethlehem. The “Prince of Life” (Acts 3:15). The “Prince of the kings of the earth” (Rev 1:5). The “Prince of Peace” (Is 9:6) “His Name shall be called The Prince of Peace.” He would be the One who would at last bring peace to this troubled world. He preserves, commands and creates peace.

There are three dimensions of peace. Peace with God. The peace of God. Peace on earth

Let's look at Peace with God. Rom 5:1 “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ”

Amplified “Therefore, since we are justified (acquitted, declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, let us [grasp the fact that we] have [the peace of reconciliation to hold and to enjoy] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One)”

Millions have sought peace with God. Some sought it through religious ritual. Some sought it through good works. Some sought it through giving money or possessions. There is a great gulf between sinners and God (Rich man and Lazarus). This gulf – this divide - was bridged by the cross. Jesus paid our debt of sin (Is 53:5-6). Isaiah 53:5-6 “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way, and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all”

He broke down all barriers (Eph 2:12-18). Ephesians 2:14 “For He is our peace, who hath made both one (Jews and non-Jews), and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us”

He made peace through His blood (Col 1:20)

Colossians 1:20 “And, having made peace through the blood of His cross, by Him to reconcile all things unto Himself; by Him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.” We find peace with God through faith in Jesus

Now, let's look at the peace of God (Phil 4:5-8). Peace is positional and unchanging. It's knowing who we are in Jesus! The peace of God is dependent upon our relationship with Jesus

The better our relationship with Jesus – the greater the peace of God in our lives. Many have peace with God but miss the peace of God.

Paul lays out a path to peace here in Philippians 4. Be anxious about nothing (Worry about nothing) (Vs 6). Pray about everything (Vs 6). Give thanks without ceasing (continually) for everything (Vs 6). Think only about virtuous and praise worthy things (Vs 8). If we do these things, the result will be peace that passes all understanding

Next, let's look at peace on earth.

Isaiah 2:4 “And He shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nations, neither shall they learn war any more”

Luke 2:14 “Peace on earth good will toward men”

This peace awaits the coming kingdom of Jesus Christ. No more war (Vs 4). Even peace among animals (Is 11:6-8). Peace instead of violence (Isaiah 11:9-10). Peace in nature (Isaiah 35:1-2, 7). Gabriel's promises to Mary will be fulfilled! (Luke 1:30-33). Truly the best is yet to come!

Do you long for peace in your life? Jesus will bring peace to your troubled heart. Someday he will bring peace to this troubled world. He is our peace!

It's my hope and desire that these last few blog posts have been a blessing to you and opened your spiritual eyes a little more to whom Jesus is.

From Cindy and I, we wish you a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

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HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED THE EVERLASTING FATHER!

Isaiah 9:6  "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, Counselor, The might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace"

Celebrating Christmas in the Old Testament. Isaiah saw it all in advance. From the virgin birth to the coming kingdom. Let's look at the different dimensions of the deity of Jesus Christ . Look at the names Isaiah used to describe the character of Jesus. Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God. This was more than a birth – it was an incarnation. God taking on human form

“His name shall be called the Everlasting Father.” What does “Everlasting Father” imply? He is timeless – He is God our Father. He is God – one with the Father from everlasting to everlasting. He is the Father – or Source – of eternity. He not only would come to reveal the Heavenly Father, but He Himself would act toward His people as a compassionate Father who loves, guards, protects and supplies the needs of His children

The Everlasting One entered time. Why did Jesus have to be born in Bethlehem? It was required by the prophecy in Micah. Micah 5:2 “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto me that is to be Ruler in Israel; whose going forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” The Everlasting one must enter time – enter the world – through Bethlehem.

Why was Bethlehem chosen?. The first mention of Bethlehem was as the place of Rachel's death (Gen 35:15-20). It was known as a place of sorrows. Jesus was to be a Man of Sorrows (Is 53:3). It was the place of David's birth and anointing (1 Samuel 16).

Bethlehem-Ephratah means “house of bread”. Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35). He satisfies hungry hearts. What was the Savior's future and past? It was to be Ruler in Israel (Micah 5:2). “...from of old, from everlasting” (Micah 5:2)

The Everlasting One made Himself subject to time. The miracles of the incarnation (Phil 2:5-8). Our Lord's pre-incarnate position (Vs 6) “Who being in the form of God thought it not robbery to be equal with God” Made Himself of no reputation (Vs 7). Took upon Himself the form of a servant (Vs 7). Made in the likeness of men (Vs 7). Humbled Himself and died on the cross for us (Vs 8) “And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

In all this He became subject to time. He was born at a particular time (Luke 2:1-7). He experienced growth over time (Luke 2:52). In birth and in death, Jesus was on time. Galatians 4:4-6 “But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father”

For centuries the Jews had been wondering when their Messiah would come – but God's timing was perfect. We may sometimes wonder if God will ever respond to our prayers. But we must never doubt Him or give up hope. At the right time – God's time – He will respond. Are your waiting for God's timing for something in your life? Trust His judgment for your best interests.

Now He is alive forevermore. Revelation 1:18 “I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forever more, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death”

The subjects of time are offered eternal life. We are all subjects of time. At birth, we begin to age. Time takes it's toll on each of us. We leave life much as we entered life. By faith in Jesus we receive everlasting life (John 3:16). Jesus gives eternal life to those who believe in Him. There is a two-fold revelation in this. He inhabits and possesses eternity (Is 57:15). He is loving, tender, compassionate, an all wise Instructor, Trainer and Provider. He is the Author of everlasting life and happiness

What will you do with God's offer of everlasting life? Receive it by faith while you have time. We're not talking just about eternity – we're talking an abundant life down here now! As a Christian, are you walking in the victory and joy God has for you? Or are you living beneath your privileges as a Child of God? He is the Everlasting Father – our Provider, our Strength Giver, our Source for everything we need to live the life He desires us to live

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

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HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED THE MIGHTY GOD!

Isaiah 9:6  "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, Counselor, The might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace"

Isaiah was preparing us for Christmas. He did so through his prophecy of the virgin birth. Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” He also did so through his revelation of the many names of Jesus,. A child was to be born, a son given. A child who would some day govern. Even foretold by the angel Gabriel (Luke 1:30-33)

“His name shall be called the Mighty God.” He is God Himself. In the Messiah all the fullness of deity would exist in bodily form (Col 2:9). He is the omnipotent supreme ruler. As He has wisdom, so He has strength. He is able to save to the utmost

John the Baptist was to prepare the way for the Mighty God. There was another miraculous birth that was to occur. Zacharias was serving in the temple (Luke 1:5-10). Zacharias and Elizabeth had been childless (Luke 1:7). An angel announces the coming birth of John (Luke 1:13). God answers prayer in His own way and in His own time. He worked in an impossible situation – Zacharias' wife was barren – to bring about the fulfillment of all the prophesies concerning the Messiah. If we want our prayers answered, we must be open to what God can do in impossible situations and we must wait for Him to work in His way and in His time. This one to be born was prophesied by Isaiah (Isaiah 40:3-5). John the Baptist was to prepare the way of the Lord. The one to come (Jesus) would exalt those in valleys. He would bring the proud low. He would make the crooked straight. He would make the rough smooth. Only the Mighty God can work such miracles in people's lives

Isaiah told people to prepare to see God work! The Mighty God is at work in each of us through the work of the Holy Spirit

The Mighty God is to bring light to those in darkness (Luke 1:76-79). Jesus is called the Dayspring; - the dawn. John was to be a prophet of the Highest – pointing people to Jesus. He would give light to those in darkness. He would give light to those in the shadow of death. He would give guidance to those in trouble. Human solutions for problems fail. We need the wisdom of the Mighty God

The shepherds were to go and find the Mighty God (Luke 2:10-12). The first announcement was to common men. Not the religious “Who's Who”. A Savior: Christ the Lord. “A Savior!” - What good news for sinners!

This Savior is Christ Jesus the Lord. The shepherds went and found the Lord, as directed. Many who lived and walked the earth with Jesus found Him to be the Mighty God! Have you found Him to be the Mighty God in your life?

Come with all your sins to the One who is mighty to save. Come with all your problems to the One who is mighty to solve. The Mighty God awaits your call. Trust Him with your life – your all. Give yourself to the God who is mighty!

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

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HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED COUNSELOR!

Isaiah 9:6  "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 might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace"

We have in our text Isaiah's early announcement of the birth of Jesus. Most birth announcements come after the birth- after the baby is born. Isaiah gives this birth announcement by prophecy centuries before the baby has arrived.

Why did he use so many names in the announcement?. Many names are needed to adequately describe this wonderful Savior. Each of these names reveals the personality of our Lord Jesus.

“His Name shall be called Counselor.” As Counselor He was intimately acquainted with the counsels of God from eternity, and He gives counsel to us, today

As Counselor Jesus became available. The name “Counselor” speaks of His wisdom

The Messiah would be in incarnation of perfect wisdom and have the words of eternal life. There are times when wisdom is worthless. Wisdom is worthless when it is not available. Wisdom is worthless when it cannot be applied to life – or lived out in a practical way.

Jesus became available Phil 2:5-7 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”

The incarnation was the act of the pre-existent Son of God voluntarily assuming a human body and human nature. Without ceasing to be God, He became a human being – the man called Jesus. He didn't give up His deity to become human, but He set aside the right to His glory and power.

He was born and laid in a manger (Luke 2:1-7). His birth was announced to shepherds (Luke 2:8-14). Wise men came to worship Him (Matt 2:1-11). Jesus was always available during His ministry. He was available to children as well as adults. He was available to the poor as well as the rich. He was available to sinners like you and me!

As Counselor, He came with answers. As Counselor, He gives the right advise. As Counselor, He would disclose the perfect plan of salvation. Jesus had answers for the doctors in the temple (Luke 2:41-52). Jesus had answers for Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews (John 3:1-21). Jesus had answers for His critics (John 2:18-22). Jesus had answers about eternity. He gave a promise of heaven (John 14:1-6). He spoke of the peril of hell (Luke 16:19-31)

As Counselor He came with assurance for hopeless sinners. Jesus brought a message of love. Love for the woman at the well (John 4:1-26). Love for a crooked tax collector, Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10). Love for a dying thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43). Jesus brought hope to those who had no hope – and He still does! No problem was too difficult for Him to solve. He still reaches out to those who have no hope. He offers hope to you and me

During this season, we celebrate more than a miracle birth. This virgin-born Savior has the answers that are needed today. Jesus has answers that are relevant to every person, every need and every age. I encourage you to bring your burdens and problems to Him. His wise counsel will guide you through your troubled times. His wise counsel will guide you through your valleys. His wise counsel will guide you through the storms you face in your life. As our Counselor, He is wisdom!

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

Thanks for taking your time to read and share this blog. If you know of someone who would be encouraged by this blog, please feel free to forward a link or use the icons below to repost this blog.

HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL!

Isaiah 9:6  "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 might God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace"

The prophet Isaiah, in his writing foretold the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Additionally he wrote about the life of Jesus, described the death of Jesus and prophesied the coming Kingdom of Jesus. Isaiah had a revelation of the many names of the Savior: Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.

Today, in this blog, I am beginning a series of these descriptive names of Jesus that will take us through Christmas. Today's blog will deal with “...His name shall be called Wonderful...”.  This speaks of His person and work – speaks of the essence of who He is. Jesus is exceptional, distinguished, and without peer. He is both God and man. The Messiah is prophesied to be a spiritual wonder. He would show His character by His deeds and miracles. Yes, indeed, “His name shall be called Wonderful”!

Jesus was wonderful in His birth. Isaiah prophesied in Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” This was Isaiah's prophecy of the miraculous birth of the Savior.  Gabriel had a message for Mary (Luke 1:26-38). Mary was a bit confused by this prophetic message (Vs 29). Gabriel then gave her a reassuring answer (Vs 30).

The virgin birth was, without a doubt, a miracle! There was never one before and there has been none since. There were other miracles regarding the birth of Jesus, as well. The angelic appearances to Mary, Joseph and the shepherds. The taxing that brought them to Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). The arrival of the wise men (Matt 2). These were all a part of God's divine plan.  Don't try to explain away the miracles of Christmas!

Jesus was wonderful in His life. This wonderful baby born in a manger was a miracle, without question. But Jesus is no longer in a manger. His miraculous birth was only part of God's great plan. We no longer worship a babe in a manger. We worship the sinless Savior who gave His life for every man, woman, boy or girl who ever lived or will live – He laid down His life for you and me!

We worship the sinless Savior who meets people in crisis. He is like a hiding place from the wind. He is like a covert from the tempest. He is like rivers of water in a dry place. He is like the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. He will meet you in your crisis and deliver you!

Jesus was wonderful in His death (Isaiah 53). All die because of sin (Heb 9:27). Jesus was sinless and died for sinners. Isaiah wrote in Isaiah 53:4-5 “Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.”

He died carrying our sorrows! He died in our place as our substitute. All our sins were laid on Him.

Isaiah 53:6 “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have tuned every one to his own way; and the lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all”

The Message “We're all like sheep who've wondered off and gotten lost. We've done our own thing, gone our own way. And God has piled all our sins, everything we've done wrong, on Him, on Him”

Jesus will be wonderful in His coming kingdom (Isaiah 35). The One who died and rose again will return again! When He comes to reign the promises to Mary will be fulfilled. “He shall reign forever and ever” (Luke 1:33) and “Of His Kingdom there will be no end” (Luke 1:33)

“His name shall be called Wonderful” Is Jesus wonderful to you? Trust Him and you will find Him a wonderful Savior. Cast your cares on Him and He'll be wonderful to you. Leave your burdens at His feet and this wonderful Savior will take them. He will be as wonderful to you as you allow Him to be

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

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100th BLOG POST

It's exciting to me to announce this particular post is my 100th post on this blog!  We have covered a wide variety of topics and I've even been on my soap box from time to time.  There are many things I feel passionate about and this blog gives me an outlet to share my thoughts.

I want to say to those who take the time to read this blog THANK YOU!!!!  I really do appreciate you.  For those who have forwarded a link to this blog I want to say THANK YOU!!!!  You have helped me get the word our about this blog and others are reading it as a result of you passing on a link to them.

I would like to give you some stats regarding this blog including the top ten most read blog posts that I have made.

There  have been 5193 page views over the last 99 blog posts. These have come from ten different countries :  United States, Russia, Germany, United Kingdom, Latvia, Malaysia, Canada, France, China and South Korea. How exciting is that?  This gives us a bit of an international flavor.

My top ten posts on this blog are as follows:

1. IS TITHING BIBLICAL IN THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH?

2. WHAT ABOUT THE ORDER OF WORSHIP?

3. WHAT ABOUT OUR SUNDAY GO TO MEETING CLOTHES?

4. CHRISTIANITY VERSUS CHURCHIANITY

5. QUIT DOING WHAT GOD NEVER TOLD YOU TO DO

6. THE LORD'S SUPPER OR THE LORD'S SNACK?

7. WHAT ABOUT WATER BAPTISM?

8. SPIRITUAL WARFARE

9. WHAT ABOUT THE OFFICE OF PASTOR?

10. CONTENTMENT

I would like to encourage you to go back and read some of the older blog posts from time to time.  There may be times you are facing something and would be encouraged by something in this blog.  Use it as a resource to encourage and bless yourself as well as others.

I also want to let you know that this will most likely be my last blog post until after Christmas.  It's been my experience that many people are quite busy during the Christmas season with family, shopping, Christmas parties as well as other functions and events.  We are quite busy ourselves with our Santa work.  

From Cindy and I we wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!  Always remember...JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON!

Until next time...enjoy the journey!

Ray

Thanks for taking your time to read and share this blog. If you know of someone who would be encouraged by this blog, please feel free to forward a link or use the icons below to repost this blog.