Understanding Jesus as the ‘Prince of Peace’ in Isaiah’s Prophecy and Mary’s Song
Willow Creek | November 1, 2024
Jesus as the ‘Prince of Peace’: A Prophecy of Hope and Restoration
Who is the Prince of Peace in Isaiah? The prophecy is telling of the coming Messiah, which we later learned to be Jesus.
The title “Prince of Peace” in Isaiah 9:6, was given during a time of great unrest in the Kingdom of Judah. ‘Prince of Peace’ describes the Messiah as a leader who brings holistic peace, justice, and well-being, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus. The historical context includes political instability, threats from neighboring nations, and social upheaval. The Assyrian Empire was expanding, creating fear and anxiety among the Israelites.
The Historical Context of Isaiah’s Prophecy of a ‘Prince of Peace’
In this uncertain and hostile environment, the prophecy of the coming Messiah, who would be a “Prince of Peace,” offered great hope. It suggested that this leader would establish a reign characterized by peace and justice, contrasting sharply with the turmoil of the present. The term implies not just the absence of conflict but a deep, holistic peace that encompasses well-being and harmony within the community.
How Jesus Fulfills the ‘Prince of Peace’ Prophecy through Reconciliation
The title of “Prince of Peace” also reflects the messianic expectation that God would intervene in history to bring about restoration and security. Jesus ultimately fulfilled this prophecy as He brought spiritual peace and reconciliation in the relationship between God and humanity.
The understanding of Jesus as the “Prince of Peace” is infused throughout the pages of the Bible. Although the passage of Luke 1:46-55 doesn’t explicitly mention Jesus as the “Prince of Peace”—the title given to Him in Isaiah 9:6—there are themes in this passage that reflect His role in establishing peace and justice, which align with the concept of peace He embodies.
Mary’s Song and the Themes of Peace and Justice in Luke 1:46-55
Luke 1:46–55 is known as the Magnificat or Mary’s Song and is a hymn of praise spoken by Mary, the mother of Jesus, in response to her visit with her cousin, Elizabeth. In Luke 1:46-55, Mary’s Song celebrates God’s mercy, justice, and peace, foreshadowing Jesus’ role in establishing God’s Kingdom of love and reconciliation.
When Mary sings these praises, she is pregnant with her beloved child—Jesus. Her song is an outpouring of her love for God and her heart in trusting His decision to choose her to carry the Messiah of the world.
Mary begins her song in verses 46-49 with, “And Mary said, ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is his name.’”
Within the opening lines of this passage, Mary’s Song expresses deep joy and gratitude for God’s favor. This sense of joy and fulfillment speaks to the peace that comes from a relationship with God—foreshadowing the peace Jesus would bring into the world.
Justice, Mercy, and the Kingdom of Peace in Jesus’ Ministry
Mary’s Song speaks of God lifting the humble and filling the hungry with good things while scattering the proud, as found in verses 52-53, which reads, “He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.” This theme of social justice indicates that Jesus’ coming will challenge the status quo and bring forth a more equitable society, which is essential for true peace.
The passage continues and emphasizes God’s mercy and faithfulness to Israel in verses 54-55, which read, “He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” Jesus, as the embodiment of God’s mercy, offers reconciliation and peace between humanity and God and among people, fulfilling the promise of peace in the world.
The themes of justice and mercy in Mary’s Song point to the establishment of God’s Kingdom, where peace reigns. Jesus’ mission is to usher in His Kingdom, which is marked by love, justice, and reconciliation. These themes are foundational to understanding how Jesus will embody peace throughout His ministry as the “Prince of Peace.”
What does this mean for you this Christmas?
During Christmas, celebrating Jesus as the ‘Prince of Peace’ reminds us of God’s promise of reconciliation, justice, and inner peace—a peace that overcomes turmoil and brings hope!