WHY it matters//

Isaiah chapter 9 is known as a messianic prophecy. This passage of scripture speaks of the promised messiah, Jesus. God not only promises that He is coming, but that when He does He will save all people from darkness and deliver them from all oppression. This salvation will not only be for a time, but for all of eternity.

WHAT it's talking about//

The book of Isaiah was written in the 8th century BC by the Prophet Isaiah and is the first of the Major Prophets in the Old Testament. Isaiah was a prophet to Judah. (This is a time in history when Israel and Judah are divided into two kingdoms). Chapter 9 is located in the first of 3 sections (chapters 1-33) where Isaiah is prophesying judgment and coming restoration for Israel, Judah and the nations. This passage of scripture in particular, though containing a messianic prophesy, is also relevant to the 8th century hearers. God is about to judge them, yet even in judgment expresses his mercy towards them with coming restoration.

Isaiah 9:2-7 NLT

2 The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.

3 You will enlarge the nation of Israel, and its people will rejoice. They will rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest and like warriors dividing the plunder.

4 For you will break the yoke of their slavery and lift the heavy burden from their shoulders. You will break the oppressor’s rod, just as you did when you destroyed the army of Midian.

5 The boots of the warrior and the uniforms bloodstained by war will all be burned. They will be fuel for the fire.

6 For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

7 His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!