Isaiah 9:6 Advent Study: Reflections on the Names of Jesus

Isaiah 9:6 says, “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 Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (NIV).

This Scripture is often quoted during the anticipation of the Christmas celebration — a season called Advent. Each of the four Sundays before Christmas represent a new week of Advent. These weeks focus on the themes of hope, joy, love, and peace as we celebrate the already (Jesus’ coming as a baby) and the not yet (His return to make all things right and restored).

As you anticipate your Christmas celebration, use this Isaiah 9:6 Advent Study to unpack four names of Jesus. Every week will offer four Scripture passages as well as reflection questions. Read and reflect on them all at once or throughout the week. Notice how you connect with these names and how they help you grow in your relationship with Christ. Invite your family and friends to join you as you journey toward celebration.

Week One in Isaiah 9:6 — “Wonderful Counselor”

Jesus’ name — Wonderful Counselor — reflects how God is full of wonders to a vast degree. He also draws His people in close to guide and advise them according to His will and purpose.

Read Psalm 77. How does remembering God’s wonders change this psalmist’s perspective?

Read Hebrews 4:14-16. The word often translated as “great” as in “great high priest” is similar to the word “wonderful” in the original language. How have you experienced God’s wonders and empathy? Discuss these moments with Him.

Read 1 Chronicles 13:1-4. David sought counsel from the officers in his army about their next steps. What do you need to unload onto your Wonderful Counselor and seek His wisdom and strategy about?

Read Psalm 16:7. Use this Scripture as a prayer and notice how it stirs hope in you when life feels heavy and dark.

Week Two in Isaiah 9:6 — “Mighty God”

This name of Jesus reflects how God is a powerful warrior.

Read 1 Samuel 16:18. David is described as both a shepherd and a mighty warrior. When you consider Jesus as your Great Shepherd, how does this image also depict Him as a mighty warrior (for more insight read Psalm 23)?

Read Psalm 45. This psalm was written for a historic king (possibly Solomon), but is also seen as a prophecy about Christ and the Church. Notice in verses three and four how the king is depicted. How does this stir joy in your heart as you anticipate Jesus’ return as King?

Read Romans 8:31-37. Consider obstacles in your life. How does knowing “God is for you” change the way you think about yourself and your circumstances?

Read 2 Corinthians 2:14-17. Talk with God about this vivid Scripture describing our victory parade in Christ and your joy for Christ’s return.

Week Three in Isaiah 9:6 — “Everlasting Father”

This name of Jesus reflects how God is an eternal Father and how, through Christ, we’re adopted as His children (John 14:6). He’s not a father who is distant, but one who is near, loving, and full of compassion.

Read Psalm 48:14. As you consider your life, what else can you say will be with you forever and ever? Thank God for His infinite constancy.

Read Luke 11:1-13. What’s it like to connect with God as a father? Ask God to bring to mind ways He’s fathered you.

Read Isaiah 64:8. How have you been shaped and molded by a father or mother figure in your life? Name an area God is molding and shaping in your life.

Read John 3:16-17 and Romans 8:38-39. Allow these truths to saturate your conversations with God as your Eternal Father full of love.

Week Four in Isaiah 9:6 — “Prince of Peace”

This name of Jesus reflects how God is the source of true peace and a reminder of Christ’s role in bringing full restoration and peace to this world when He returns.

Read Psalm 4:8. How does God’s peace impact this psalmist at night?

Read Revelation 1:5-6. How does the apostle John use this greeting to describe the grace and peace of Jesus?

Read John 14:27-28. What does Jesus share with His followers?

Read Isaiah 52:7. Pray the fullness of “good news” as described in this Scripture over family, friends, community, city, state, country, and world.