Sermon Recap
In this sermon, you are invited to reflect on the profound prophecy from Isaiah 9:6-7, which describes Jesus as the "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace." These words, written 800 years before His birth, remind you of the incredible purpose and eternal reign of the Messiah. At Christmas, it’s easy to focus on the joy and innocence of a baby in a manger, but take a moment to remember why Jesus came—to bring salvation and everlasting peace to a broken world. This prophecy is a call for you to marvel at God’s perfect plan and the wonder of who Jesus is.
As you consider the title "Wonderful Counselor," let its meaning sink in. The word "wonderful" speaks to Jesus’ incomprehensible greatness, a wonder that surpasses anything you can fully understand. Think of the awe you’ve felt in moments of sheer beauty, like standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon or seeing the world from an airplane window. Isaiah struggled to find words that could capture Jesus’ greatness, and his choice of “wonderful” invites you to approach Christ with that same sense of amazement and reverence.
Jesus is also your ultimate counselor. Unlike anyone else, He truly understands what you go through. He walked this earth, experiencing betrayal, sorrow, grief, and temptation—just as you do. Because of this, He can guide you with unmatched wisdom and compassion. He doesn’t just offer advice; He walks with you, helping you see life through His eyes. When you lean on Him, He gives you peace, strength, and hope, no matter what challenges you face. He is there to help you navigate life’s trials with grace and confidence.
Ultimately, this message is a reminder that Jesus isn’t just a Savior who came to pay for your sins—He is also a Wonderful Counselor who wants to be involved in every part of your life. When you turn to Him, you’ll find guidance, comfort, and joy that the world can’t offer. He will walk with you, helping you live with an eternal perspective and bringing peace into your heart. Who doesn’t need a counselor like that? Jesus is inviting you to embrace Him fully, to trust Him completely, and to experience the wonder of His presence in your life.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
Reflecting on Isaiah 9:6-7, what stands out to you about the way Jesus is described as "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace"? How do these titles help you understand His character and mission?
This sermon emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder about Jesus. Can you share a time when you were in awe of who God is or what He has done in your life? How can you keep that sense of wonder alive in your daily walk with Him?
Jesus is described as the ultimate counselor who understands our struggles because He experienced human life. How does this knowledge impact your view of His ability to guide you through challenges? Are there specific areas of your life where you need to trust Him more as your counselor?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before You in awe and wonder, grateful for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah, for sending us the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Lord, we stand amazed at who You are—Your wisdom, love, and power are beyond what we can fully comprehend.
Jesus, You are the Wonderful Counselor and we ask You to guide us through the challenges we face. Help us to see life through Your eternal perspective, to trust in Your wisdom, and to rest in Your peace. Remind us that You understand our struggles because You walked this earth and experienced life as we do. Thank You for Your compassion, Your grace, and the hope You give us.
Holy Spirit, stir in our hearts a renewed sense of wonder for all that You are. Let us never lose sight of Your greatness or take for granted the gift of Your presence in our lives. Help us to live each day with gratitude, joy, and a deeper connection to You. Amen.
Life Application
Spend Time in Reflection and Prayer: Take time this week to reflect on the titles given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6-7, "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Meditate on what each title means for your life and invite Jesus into any areas where you need His wisdom, strength, peace, or guidance. Use prayer as an opportunity to seek His counsel and to express your awe and gratitude for who He is.
Practice Daily Wonder: Find one moment each day to pause and recognize the wonder of God in your life. Whether it’s through reading Scripture, appreciating the beauty of creation, or recalling a moment when you experienced His presence, allow yourself to be amazed by His greatness. Write down these moments in a journal to help you cultivate an ongoing sense of awe and deepen your connection to Christ.
Don’t Forget
Sunday Night Prayer January 5th @6:00pm
Additional Resources
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