This chapter includes a commonly quoted prophesy of Jesus’ coming and a judgement upon wickedness.
“For to us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.” (v6-7 abr)
What struck me while reading this common passage was the phrase “the zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this”. Zeal is defined as: “great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective”. What this passage tells us is God enthusiastically, and with great effort, sent Jesus into this world with a glorious purpose. His mission is to establish Jesus’ kingdom, which includes redeeming His people into that kingdom.
Jesus Christ, our anointed Lord and King must have a kingdom, so God passionately pursues kingdom building. Throughout scripture we read about the kingdom of God, and Jesus Himself teaches about it. We, being the bride of Christ, will be included in His kingdom Where is His kingdom? Currently in the ‘spiritual realm’, which partially resides in His followers’ hearts. One day He will ‘physically’ rule in a new Heaven and a new Earth for the remainder of eternity, and we will be present with Him.
I encourage us to adopt God’s zeal for His kingdom, and pursue kingdom building as the Lord leads us. God’s primary mission is to establish Jesus’ throne / kingdom, save souls for that kingdom, and work with / through those who are willing to help Him achieve that goal. God doesn’t need our help, and His kingdom will be established with or without us, though He loves us and wants us to voluntarily partner with Him.
Father God, our Glorious Creator and Sovereign Lord, we bless Your holy name. Thank you for extending us Your grace and desiring to save us through Jesus. Jesus thank you for inviting us into Your kingdom, giving us a hope and a future. Holy Spirit please work in and through us to glorify the Father and continue building Jesus’ kingdom. All honor, glory and power be unto You O Lord, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training