The Birth of Jesus: Understanding Isaiah’s Prophecy and the Message of Peace
Willow Creek | November 1, 2024
Isaiah’s Prophecy of Jesus’ Birth: ‘Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace’
The birth of Jesus was prophesied by the prophet Isaiah nearly 600 years before Jesus was born. Isaiah wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6).
Centuries later, a virgin conceived through an immaculate conception by the divine power of the Holy Spirit—giving birth to the long-awaited and prophesied Messiah of the world: Jesus.
The Shepherds’ Role in the Birth Story: God’s Message to All
Looking at the birth story of Jesus found in Luke 2:8-14, an emphasis is placed on the particular way in which God chose to reveal the good news of Jesus’ birth.
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’”
Angels are sent to proclaim Jesus’ birth through a heavenly announcement in the sky, indicating that God’s plans are revealed to humanity, reinforcing the theme of divine communication.
What was the meaning of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds? The angelic announcement to shepherds shows God’s message of salvation is for all, including society’s marginalized. It is “good news of great joy for all people,” underscoring the universal nature of God’s mission, suggesting that salvation is available to every person—regardless of social status or background, including shepherds, who heard it first.
Why were shepherds chosen for the birth announcement?
In first-century Judea, shepherds held a unique and often marginalized position in society. Shepherds were generally considered lower on the social hierarchy. Their work was labor-intensive and often required them to live in the fields, which could make them appear unkempt and untrustworthy. They were often viewed with suspicion and sometimes associated with criminal activity due to their nomadic lifestyle—making them seen as outcasts in society. According to Jewish law, shepherds were often deemed ceremonially unclean because they frequently handled animals, which limited their participation in temple rituals. This added to their marginalization within religious communities.
The announcement of Jesus’ birth to shepherds is significant. The shepherds’ reaction to the angel’s message highlights the importance of faith and obedience. Their decision to seek out the newborn Jesus demonstrates a model for believers in responding to God’s call. It underscores a theme of humility and the idea that God’s message and salvation are accessible to all, including the marginalized. This choice reflects the overarching message of the Gospel that challenges social norms.
What Jesus’ Humble Birth Teaches Us About God’s Kingdom
Jesus’ birth was a humble one—cradled in a manger and sheltered in a barn—which contrasts sharply with the grandeur typically associated with kingship. Luke 2:8-14 teaches about the nature of God’s kingdom, which values humility and service over power and prestige. God’s intentionality with Jesus’ birth story carries out a profound paradoxical celebration of His son being born into some of the most humble circumstances while divine and powerful angelic hosts fill the night sky to declare Jesus’ glory. This passage highlights Jesus’ divine authority and critical role in the salvation message. It reinforces the belief in Jesus as both fully human and fully divine, marking the fulfillment of messianic prophecies.
Peace on Earth: The New Order Jesus Brings
The declaration of peace on earth suggests that Jesus’ coming has implications for human relationships and the establishment of a new order in which God’s peace reigns. This aligns with broader biblical themes of shalom—wholeness and well-being. The Jewish people of the time expected a political figure, a warrior type, to liberate them from Roman occupation. But instead, He came as a baby to not only set them free but all people—liberated in a way they could never have fully imagined.
What does that mean for you this Christmas?
During Christmas, we remember Jesus’ birth as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, bringing peace and hope to a world in need. Jesus’ arrival as both humble and divine illustrates God’s heart for all people, including you. No matter what you’re facing or what you’ve done, there’s a place for you in the family of God, and God wants to speak to you!