"Wonderful Counselor"

At the same time of his miraculous birth, the one born to be the Messiah received the name Jesus, meaning "Jehovah Is Salvation."  But he has other names, prophetic names that outline his key role and his elevated position. One such name is Immanuel, meaning "With Us Is God."  (Isaiah 7:14) Isaiah now describes another prophetic name:  "There has been a child born to us, there has been a son given to us; and  the princely rule will come to be upon his shoulder.  And his name will be called Wonder Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6) Consider the rich meaning of this multiple prophetic name.

A counselor is one who gives counsel, or advice.  When one earth, Jesus Christ provided wonderful counsel.  In the Bible we read that "crowds were astounded at his way of teaching."  (Matthew 7:28) He is a wise and empathetic Counselor, with an extraordinary understanding of human nature.  His counsel is not restricted to reprimands or chastisement.  More often, it is the form of instruction and loving advice.  Jesus' counsel is wonderful, because it is always wise, perfect, and infallible.  When followed, it leads to everlasting life. -John 6:68.

Jesus' counsel is not simply the product of his brilliant mind.  Rather, he says: "What I teach is not mine, but belongs to him that sent me."  (John 7:16) As was the case with Solomon, Jehovah God is  the Source of Jesus' wisdom.  (1 Kings 3:7-14; Matthew 12:42) Jesus' example should motivate teachers and counselors in the Christian congregation always to base their instruction on God's Word. -Proverbs 21:30.

Next time: "Mighty God" and "Eternal Father"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind