Greetings members and friends and welcome to another commentary and preview to this Sunday’s study of the Word. This Sunday’s study text is entitled “Justice and Righteousness Reign” and it is based on Isaiah 9:2-7.
In the text today, the prophet Isaiah gives a prophesy of hope that is directed to people who are distressed without much hope for things to get any better. He describes his audience as people sitting in the dark. People who are resigned to just a matter of time before death will come to end their weary lives.
Many people in Isaiah’s time felt this way. The nation was corrupt, life was difficult and they were being threaten by enemies around. It was not a happy or joyous time to be alive. People throughout human history have been and continue to be in a place like Isaiah is describing.
Just imagine sitting in a completely dark and gloomy place or wilderness where there is no light at all and out of nowhere an unexpected light appears and begins to shine. This is what Isaiah is describing.
No matter what time in human history this occurs, it is one of the most joyous things that can happen to people sitting in darkness in the shadows of death. The light provides a reason for hope and escape from a place of despair and gloom.
In verses 3 and 4, Isaiah describes the change in mood that the present of the light brings. He talks about joy and numbers being multiplied and the happiness people experience when there is an abundant harvest or when dividing the spoils and bounty when a great victory has been won.
In verse 5, Isaiah describes the thoroughness of the victory over the darkness and the causes thereof like an enemy whose boots and bloody clothes are fuel for fire. An enemy who has been completely vanquished, disarmed and burned never to bother his audience again.
Finally, Isaiah describes this light as the Messianic king who has come to sit on the throne of David promised by God. To this King is ascribed divine attributes inherent in the names by which He is referred. He is able to provide counsel that is wonderful or amazing. He is a God who is mighty in the face of those who would oppose Him. He is eternal and provides and cares for His people just as a father. He grants peace to all who will trust and obey Him.
Unlike other kingdoms that come and go, Messiah’s kingdom is eternal and everlasting. It is founded and based upon righteous judgement which provides comfort for all who are denied it in this life. Isaiah said we can be sure about this because the Lord Himself will see that it shall come to pass.
So, Christians believe this prophesy is fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth. Christmas marks His coming into the world and by Him justice and righteousness shall reign for all time.
Well, again be sure to look over the study again and come prepared to offer your comments, questions and perspective on the meaning of the study. If you can’t attend your own Sunday School class this Sunday, you can join us live and online at 9:00 am at www.fbmbc.org and clicking the online services link.
You can also join us live by dialing 508 924-2890. If you have any comments or questions, be sure to place them in the comment section or you can share them on Sunday. So, let’s all have a great lesson and discussion this Sunday and remember to fear God and keep His commandments.
Pastor Jordan
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