A Light Has Dawned | Fulfillment of Isaiah 9:1-7 in Matthew 4:12-17

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A Light Has Dawned (Matthew 4:12-17; Fulfillment of Isaiah 9:1-7)

In Matthew 4:12-17 we find a prophecy from Isaiah. This is a direct prophecy—Isaiah had Jesus only in mind when he wrote these words. There are some who say that the prophecy in its original context referred to Hezekiah. However, the direct nature of this prophecy becomes apparent as you read from it. How could Hezekiah, for example, be called “Mighty God?”

The Original Prophecy

Isaiah 9:1-7.

This passage is found in the section of the Book where Isaiah is predicting the coming Babylonian Captivity. Yet, as we find in the second part of Isaiah, God, through the prophet, wants to give the people hope.

In context, a great Assyrian invasion is threatening. In fact, the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali are conquered by King Tiglath-Pilesar about 733 BC. They are under oppression (“darkness”), but they are going to see a great light. How would an occupation by a foreign power be “darkness”? What hope would it be that in about 750 years the Messiah is going to come and live there?

It’s important for us to think about is Isaiah 9:6. This prophecy is nowhere mentioned directly in the New Testament. However, it is clearly Messianic. It occurs in a context which is referenced in the New Testament.

How is Jesus a “Wonderful Counselor”? Why would Isaiah refer to him as “Mighty God”? If Jesus is the Son of God, how is He the “Everlasting Father”? What do we learn about Jesus’ pre-existence here? How is Jesus the Prince of Peace? How will there be no end to the increase of His kingdom? What is the significance of the mention of David’s throne?

The Prophecy and Jesus

Matthew 4:12-17.

Why would Jesus depart into Galilee when he heard that John had been arrested? Why would Matthew record that Capernaum is on the seacoast?

Jesus’ moving into Galilee is quite significant. It’s significant because it is the fulfillment of prophecy.

It is also significant because many Gentiles lived in Galilee. This text “foreshadows” Jesus’ ministry to the Gentiles. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt 28:18-19). Remember, however, it took the church a long time to recognize fully that Gentiles were to be accepted into God’s family. The Holy Spirit had to fall upon Cornelius and his household. The Jerusalem Conference was a large debate about the role of the Law in the obedience of the Gentiles.

Did Jesus ever minister to Gentiles during his earthly ministry? What are some examples? Why is it important that Jesus’ ministry is universal?

The people have seen a great light. How was Jesus a light for these people? How is Jesus a light for us?


This Bible class was originally taught by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., at the Dale Ridge church of Christ in Roanoke, Virginia.

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