Description of the Promised Messiah, Part 3 - Everlasting Father
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | December 18 2024 | Isaiah 9:1-7
KEY VERSE:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
The title Everlasting Father reveals the eternal care and fatherly compassion of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. While the term Father in this context does not refer to the first person of the Trinity (God the Father), it signifies the Messiah’s relationship with His people. As the Everlasting Father, Jesus embodies the qualities of a perfect, eternal Father who loves, protects, provides, and nurtures His children without end.
The word Everlasting speaks of Jesus’ eternal nature. Unlike earthly fathers limited by time and life’s frailty, the Lord Jesus is eternal, unchanging, and always present. His care does not diminish or expire; it spans eternity. This aspect of the Messiah offers a profound assurance that His reign and love are timeless, unaffected by the passing of years or life's shifting circumstances.
The title Everlasting Father reminds us of Christ’s deep concern for us. In His earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated fatherly compassion as He fed the hungry (John 6:1-14), healed the sick (Matthew 14:14), and welcomed the outcast (Luke 19:1-10). He continues to extend that same care to us today. As our Everlasting Father, He is the source of our identity and security, guiding us with tenderness and steadfast love. During Advent, we celebrate the coming of the Messiah, who reigns with power and relates to us as a loving Father. This truth invites us to rest in His care and to reflect His fatherly compassion to those around us.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
How does the title Everlasting Father deepen your understanding of Jesus’ role in your life? In what ways have you experienced the fatherly care and compassion of Christ in your own journey? How can you reflect the love and care of Jesus as the Everlasting Father to others during this Advent season?
PRAYER:
Loving Saviour, I thank You for being my Everlasting Father, whose care and compassion never end. Your eternal love gives me hope and security, and Your fatherly guidance leads me on the path of righteousness. Help me to trust in Your unfailing care and to reflect Your love to others, especially during this Advent season. May my heart be filled with gratitude and wonder as we celebrate Your coming. In Your holy name, I pray. Amen
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: EVERLASTING FATHER The Hebrew phrase for Everlasting Father is Avi’ad (אֲבִיעַד). Av means 'father,' reflecting leadership and care, while ad means 'everlasting,' signifying timelessness and permanence. Together, they beautifully describe Jesus as a ruler whose love and guidance transcend time.
This title reveals Jesus’ unchanging authority and nurturing leadership. As the Everlasting Father, He offers peace, stability, and assurance to His people, reminding us that His love and protection are eternal.
Reflections:
How does Jesus’ role as the Everlasting Father bring stability to your life? Trust in His unending care and reflect His compassion by being a source of hope to those around you
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