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.

Isaiah 9:6 ESV

Isaiah 9 comes closely on the heals of Isaiah 7 for good reason, as this chapter continues Isaiah’s message to Ahaz that began two chapters before. Thus, when Isaiah declares that a child has been born to us, the immediate implication should be to connect this child with the virgin-born Immanuel, and it seems from this verse that the child bears far more significance than just the symbolism of His name.

This child will sit on David’s throne without end (v. 7), which specifically binds this promise to the Messiah, the offspring of David and of woman. But notice also the titles given to Him in addition to Immanuel.

Wonderful Counselor: He will rule with wisdom that comes from God (Isa. 11:2).

Mighty God: This is a title of the LORD Himself that is also being applied to the coming Messiah.

Everlasting Father: As a father shepherds, loves, and defends his family, Immanuel will likewise lead His people.

Prince of Peace: He will rule with perfect justice that brings peace on earth (Isa. 2:4; 49:7).

Isaiah’s prophesy here of the Serpent-Crusher gives an entirely new depth to the coming King. By bearing the title of Mighty God, the Messiah would not simply be a king who represents God; He would be God.

Somehow, through some great miracle of God, a child would be born of a virgin that is God in the form of man. We know this to be the miraculous birth of Jesus.

Take a moment to prayerfully consider Isaiah’s four titles for Jesus and how He has been your Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.