Big Idea: The Gift that keeps on giving. 

Isaiah 9:1-6

1. The great light.

Isaiah 9:1-2

Nevertheless, the gloom of the distressed land will not be like that of the former times when he jumbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali. But in the future he will bring honor to the way of the sea, to the land east of the Jordan, and to Galilee of the nations. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; a light has dawned on those living in the land of darkness. 

2. A joyful future.

Isaiah 9:3-4

You have enlarged the nation and increased its joy. The people have rejoiced before you as they rejoice at harvest time and as they rejoiced when dividing spoils. For you have shattered their oppressive yoke and the rod on their shoulders, the staff of their oppressors, just as you did on the day of Midian. 

3. The Ultimate Gift.

Isaiah 9:5-6

For every trampling boot of battle and the bloodied garments of war will be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Next Steps: 

• Believe: I believe Son of Man wants us to follow his example this week.
• Become: I will put trust in Son of Man past this holiday season.
• Be Sent: I will share my faith with someone this month.

Discussion Questions: 

1.     Do you love giving gifts or receiving them?

2.     Do you enjoy the holidays, or do they make you sad?

3.     How do you think the people hearing this prophecy felt, knowing they will not live long enough to see it fulfilled?  

4.     Which of the titles in verse 6-Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father or Prince of Peace- impact you the most?  

5.     How would you describe the Son of Man as the light of the world to someone?  

6.     How does “the government will be on His shoulders” change how you view authority and leadership?  

7.     Pray for the Holy Spirit to show you where to serve this week.