Sermon By Thulane: Who Is Jesus?
Introduction
Beloved congregation by the way of introduction, let us turn our hearts and minds to the book of Isaiah, chapter 9, verse 6:
“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.”
In this powerful scripture, we find profound truths about who Jesus is—the Son given to us, the embodiment of divine attributes and authority. Today, I want to explore this question deeply: Who is Jesus?
1. The Son Who Was Given to Us
Isaiah opens with the affirmation that “for to us a child is born, to us a son is given.” This indicates that the child we celebrated in the manger predates creation itself. Thus, the Son needed the body of a child to manifest the power and glory of God. This is our God intermingling with humanity to transform our realities.
Who is Jesus?
He is the divine entrance into our world, bending the fabric of heaven and earth, that we might receive His light. From the very beginning, He was there, yet He took on flesh and blood to dwell among us.
2. The Governance of His Authority
Isaiah continues, “and the government shall be upon his shoulder.” Herein lies a profound truth: Jesus is not elected by man; He is appointed by God. No councils or religious leaders convened to select Him. The authority of Jesus Christ is inherent and divine. His governance is sovereign and supreme.
Who is Jesus?
He is the leader of an unshakeable kingdom. This kingdom is not of mere flesh and blood but a spiritual dominion that transcends all earthly powers. He does not require approval; His existence commands reverence and allegiance.
3. The Solution to Our Struggles
Jesus is named the “Wonderful Counselor.” This title itself speaks volumes. His very name carries the solutions to all our problems. When life throws burdens upon our shoulders, it is He who whispers wisdom in the midst of confusion and strife.
Who is Jesus?
He is not just a counselor; He is the Wonderful Counselor, offering insight and clarity even in our darkest moments. Are you lost, hurting, or feeling inadequate? Seek Him.
4. The Mighty God
Continuing, we read that He is the “Mighty God.” This phrase alone informs us of His power—He governs the forces of the universe, and all creatures bow before Him.
Who is Jesus?
He embodies strength, authority, and the capability to perform miracles. Reflect for a moment: what storms in your life need to be calmed by the Mighty God? As we acknowledge Christ’s might, we are reminded that our challenges are not too great for Him.
5. The Everlasting Father
When Isaiah calls Him the “Everlasting Father,” we are confronted with another dimension of His character: His eternal presence and committed love.
Who is Jesus?
He is the Father who will never leave us nor forsake us. In a world where abandonment and betrayal can often be found, how comforting it is to rely on a Father who is forever present! Why, then, do we chase after the fleeting things created by God when we have access to the Creator Himself?
6. The Prince of Peace
Finally, we encounter the title “Prince of Peace.” In our chaotic lives, isn’t it a blessing to have someone who promises to sustain us? Psalm 55:22 reminds us:
“Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.”
Who is Jesus?
He is our refuge. When life feels chaotic, He offers peace that surpasses all understanding. His peace is like an anchor in a stormy sea, guarding our hearts and minds.
7. Jesus’ Authority and Opposition
Now, as we delve deeper into the identity of Jesus, let’s turn to John 8:53-58. The religious leaders questioned Jesus, asking if He was greater than Abraham, who had died. Jesus’ response was revolutionary:
53 Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you make yourself out to be?”
58 “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.”
This powerful proclamation points to His eternal existence and divine nature. He wasn’t just claiming authority; He was demonstrating that He is the very essence of God.
What makes Jesus different from prophets and teachers?
Let’s look at Isaiah 11:1-2:
“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him.”
the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.
Jesus is not merely a messenger; He is the embodiment of divine wisdom, understanding, and knowledge—the very Spirit of God rests upon Him.
8. The Empty Grave: Confirmation of His Deity
As we draw to a close, we must acknowledge one profound piece of evidence for His divinity: the empty grave. Matthew 12:40 states:
“For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”
This passage serves as a reminder that Jesus conquered death itself, affirming His mastery over life and eternity.
Phillipians 2 v 6-7
Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant being born in the likeness of men
Finally
Beloved friends, as we ponder the question, “Who is Jesus?” let us embrace the fullness of His identity: the Child born to us, the Son given, the Wonderful Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, and the Prince of Peace.
Let us not rush past the wonder that resides in these names. Instead, may we seek a deeper understanding, an unshakeable faith, and an everlasting relationship with the One who has come to redeem us.
Thank you for this opportunity to share the Word of God. May we be transformed in our understanding of Christ, walking boldly in the fullness of purpose for our lives. Amen.
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