Jesus was King at Birth
Introduction
As the year draws to a close, we once again find ourselves in the midst of the Christmas season. The world around us is alive with festive lights, carols, and traditions that mark this special time of year. It's a season filled with joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. However, as believers, we have a unique opportunity to peel back the layers of the familiar and rediscover the profound essence of this season. It's not merely about any birth, for countless births occur every day around the globe. It's about whose birth we celebrate, and the impact of that birth on the course of human history. As we exposit the Word of God accurately, we uncover a profound truth: Jesus Christ was not only born; He was King at birth. In this exposition, we will look into the heart of the Christmas story, using Colossians 1:15-20 and Isaiah 9: 6-7 as our guiding star. Through the lens of the prophet Isaiah, who prophesied the coming Messiah 700 years before His birth, we will explore the multifaceted nature of Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The pages of Isaiah's prophecies will intertwine with the teachings found in Colossians, illuminating who Jesus was, who He is, and who He will be. My hope and prayer is to help guide us through the layers of these passages, revealing four facets of Christ's nature prophesied by Isaiah, with a focus on their relevance to His birth and His role as our King. We will see how Christ, in His fullness, embodies these titles, and how His birth not only promises redemption but also offers peace to a troubled world through the gospel message interwoven throughout. Let our hearts flow with thanksgiving and worship as the Word unveils these timeless truths and rekindles our awe for the Savior King, who is the very reason we celebrate this season.
According to Isaiah 9:6-7
“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of Yahweh of hosts will accomplish this.”
Isaiah's prophecy captures the breathtaking mystery of the Incarnation, God becoming man and its eternal implications. When Isaiah declared, "A child will be born to us, a son will be given to us," he pointed to the humanity and divinity of Jesus Christ. The child signifies His entrance into humanity, fully taking on flesh (John 1:14), while the Son signifies His eternal existence and divine nature, given by God for the redemption of sinners (John 3:16, Philippians 2:6-8). This dual nature makes Him uniquely qualified to bridge the infinite gap between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). Isaiah also proclaims that "the government will rest on His shoulders." This foreshadows both the present and future reign of Christ. Even now, His sovereign rule extends over the universe, providentially guiding all things for His purposes (Colossians 1:17, Hebrews 1:3). Yet Isaiah points forward to the future, where His kingdom will be physically established on Earth during His millennial reign (Revelation 20:4-6). This reign will be marked by perfect justice, righteousness, and peace, in stark contrast to the flawed governments of this world (Isaiah 11:1-5). For believers, this reality calls for a present surrender to His lordship as King in their lives (Romans 14:9, Philippians 2:10- 11).
When Isaiah lists His names: “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, and Prince of Peace,” he is not simply assigning titles. He is unveiling the very character and essence of the Messiah. These names summarize the nature of Christ and His work, grounding His identity not only in the Old Testament promises but also in the gospel message. These names are lenses through which we understand the narrative of redemption, all of which center on Christ as the fulfillment of every divine promise. Isaiah continues his prophecy by unveiling the eternal reign of this Messiah: “There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore.” This verse not only highlights the scope of Christ's reign but also its unshakable foundation. Unlike the transient and flawed kingdoms of this world, Christ’s kingdom will expand without limit, eternally marked by peace, justice, and righteousness. His rule fulfills the covenant promise made to David: that his throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-13).
The "increase of His government" speaks to the ever-expanding impact of Christ's reign. Though His kingdom was inaugurated at His first coming, it continues to grow through the spread of the gospel as hearts are brought into submission to Him (Matthew 28:18-20). Ultimately, His reign will culminate in a visible, unending rule over a renewed heaven and earth, where sin, death, and rebellion will be no more (Revelation 21:1-4). We eagerly await the day when Christ’s reign will be fully realized, but we also labor now, proclaiming the gospel that advances His kingdom.
Isaiah emphasizes that this kingdom will be upheld with “justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore.” These attributes are the foundation of Christ’s rule. Unlike human governments, which often fall into corruption and inequity, His kingdom will be governed with perfect fairness. Christ’s justice ensures that every wrong is made right, and His righteousness guarantees that His reign aligns with the holy character of God. This is the hope of a weary world: an eternal King whose rule is unblemished by sin or partiality. It is also a call to trust and obedience now, as citizens of His kingdom are called to reflect these same attributes in their lives (Micah 6:8).
Finally, Isaiah assures us that this will come to pass through the unwavering commitment of God: “The zeal of Yahweh of hosts will accomplish this.” The fulfillment of this prophecy does not rest on human effort or circumstances but on the passion and power of God Himself. The word "zeal" conveys the fervent, unstoppable determination of Yahweh to bring His purposes to fruition. It is a reminder that salvation and the establishment of Christ's kingdom are entirely the work of God, for His glory and the good of His people. For believers, this truth brings immense comfort. Even when the world seems chaotic and uncertain, we can rest in the knowledge that God's purposes are unthwarted, and His kingdom will prevail.
According to Colossians 1:15-20
“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For in Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church; Who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross—through Him—whether things on earth or things in heaven.”
Paul’s exalted Christological hymn in Colossians 1:15–20 declares the universal kingship of Christ, a reign that began not with a coronation but with His birth. From the manger, Christ was already the sovereign ruler of all creation. Paul begins by proclaiming Christ as “the image of the invisible God.” This affirms His divine nature, showing that even as a child, Christ was not merely a reflection of God but the perfect and complete revelation of Him (John 14:9; Hebrews 1:3). The baby lying in the manger was fully God, veiled in human flesh, making the invisible God visible to humanity (John 1:18).
The phrase “firstborn of all creation” does not suggest that Christ was created. Rather, it speaks of His rank and authority. As the firstborn, Christ holds supreme preeminence over all creation (Psalm 89:27). This title is fitting for the King born in Bethlehem, through whom “all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities” (John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 8:6). Every dimension of existence, from the most tangible to the unseen realms of spiritual powers, originated through Him. Even as an infant, Christ was the Creator-King, sovereign over the universe into which He was born (Hebrews 1:2).
Not only did Christ create all things, but Paul also declares that “all things have been created through Him and for Him.” Creation exists by His power and for His glory (Romans 11:36), making Him its rightful ruler. Furthermore, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Christ is the sustainer of the cosmos, the one who upholds the very world He entered as a humble child in a manger (Hebrews 1:3).
Paul transitions from Christ’s supremacy in creation to His preeminence in redemption: “He is the head of the body, the church; Who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead.” The child in the manger came to establish His rule over His redeemed people (Ephesians 1:22-23). His resurrection marked Him as the firstborn from the dead, inaugurating a new creation (Revelation 1:5). His victory over death secures eternal life for His people (1 Corinthians 15:20-23) and ensures that “He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” Christ is highly exalted, and one day, everything and everyone will bow and acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord (Philippians 2:9-11).
Paul then crescendos and declares, “For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell.” The infinite God fully and permanently dwelt in the finite person of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:9). This profound truth of the incarnation highlights the King’s unparalleled uniqueness: the fullness of deity residing in human form. Through Him, God’s eternal plan of redemption is accomplished “to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross.” The peace announced by the angels at His birth (Luke 2:14), was achieved through the cross, reconciling sinners to a holy God (Romans 5:1).
Ultimately, the supremacy of Christ in Colossians serves as a profound exposition of the titles Isaiah assigns to the coming King. Now, we will explore how Paul’s text deepens our understanding of these glorious titles (although slightly out of order) showing the richness of Christ’s person and work as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.
Eternal Father
“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.” Colossians 1:15
In exploring Isaiah's prophecy of the coming King, Paul helps interpret the significance of Jesus as the Eternal Father. Often, this verse sparks inquiries about the Trinity, whether Jesus embodies both the Son and the Father or if God changed forms and became man. These inquiries must submit to Scripture, confirming the doctrine of the Trinity. In ancient times, "father" denoted the protector, provider, one who sacrifices and guides his family. As we see in Scripture, Christ perfectly embodies this role (2 Thessalonians 3:3; 1 Peter 2:24; John 10:11). This preeminent title Isaiah proclaims belongs to Christ as our eternal Savior and Lord. Paul further illuminates this title by associating Christ's eternality with fatherhood, perceiving Him as the image of God before creation, threading through redemptive history from Genesis to Revelation and extending into eternity. Paul solidifies this by affirming Christ as the firstborn of all creation. Consider the father as the source of genealogies, tracing back to Adam, the first man. However, before Adam, there was Christ. Christ, as the image of God, embodies the essence from which all humanity derives their image. Paul's exposition helps us comprehend that Christ, eternally the image of God, has been, is, and will always be so. He is the preeminent image of God from which humanity was fashioned. Eternally enduring, Christ remains the epitome of God's image, which believers will eternally reflect in glory (1 John 3:2). This Christmas season, let us center our focus on this facet of Christ. As we read about Jesus lying in a manger, let us remember His pre-existence in God's image and His eternal preservation of that perfection at the right hand of God. Charles Spurgeon captures this wonder beautifully: "Infinite, and an infant. Eternal, and yet born of a woman. Almighty, and yet hanging on a woman’s breast. Supporting a universe, and yet needing to be carried in a mother’s arms. King of angels, and yet the reputed son of Joseph. Heir of all things, and yet the carpenter’s despised son." Such a paradox of majesty and humility calls us to worship the Eternal Father who became flesh for our redemption.
Mighty God
For in Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him." Colossians 1:16
Isaiah's prophecy declares that the Messiah will be called “Mighty God,” a title affirming His absolute deity and power. Paul builds upon this truth in Colossians 1:16, where he magnifies Christ as the Creator of all things. This includes not only the physical universe but also every spiritual realm and authority. This title underscores Christ’s sovereignty and omnipotence, attributes belonging only to God Himself. In Jesus, we see the full power of God on display. As the One who spoke the world into existence (John 1:3) and upholds it by His word (Hebrews 1:3), Christ is the source and sustainer of all life. This should humble and inspire us as we reflect on the reality that the baby lying in a manger was the eternal and all-powerful God who holds all creation together. Martyn Lloyd-Jones captured this beautifully: "We are face to face with the mystery and the marvel of the Incarnation and of the Virgin Birth. It is all here, and it shines out in all the fullness of its amazing glory. 'What manner of Man is this?' He is more than Man. That is the answer – He is also God." This Christmas, let us marvel at the humility of the Mighty God who stepped into His creation. He came not as a conquering force but as a humble servant, demonstrating His power through submission to the Father’s will, even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8).
Wonderful Counselor
“And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. 18 And He is the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” Colossians 1:17-18
The title “Wonderful Counselor” highlights the Messiah's infinite wisdom and understanding. In Jesus, we find the One who perfectly guides and directs His people with wisdom that surpasses all human comprehension (Isaiah 11:2). As Paul describes in Colossians, Christ’s preeminence in all things and His role as the head of the church reflect His wisdom in ordering and sustaining His creation. Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor, knows the depths of the human heart and offers guidance that leads to life and peace (Proverbs 3:5-6, John 10:10). His counsel is not only wise but also filled with compassion and grace, as seen in His ministry on earth (Matthew 9:36). He understands our struggles and intercedes on our behalf as the perfect High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). As Matthew Henry writes: “He is the wonderful counsellor, a wonder or miracle of a counsellor; in this, as in other things, he has the pre-eminence; none teaches like him.”
This Christmas, as we reflect on Christ’s birth, let us remember that He is the source of all wisdom and truth (John 14:6). In a world filled with confusion and uncertainty, we can trust Him to lead us on the path of righteousness.
Prince of Peace
“For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross—through Him—whether things on earth or things in heaven.” Colossians 1:19-20
The title “Prince of Peace” reveals Christ’s mission to bring true and lasting peace between God and humanity. Through His sacrificial death on the cross, Jesus reconciled sinners to God, ending the enmity caused by sin (Romans 5:1, Ephesians 2:14-16). Paul emphasizes this in Colossians, where he describes how Christ’s atoning work has restored peace to all creation. This peace is not a temporary or superficial truce; it is a deep and abiding reconciliation that transforms hearts and lives. Michael Card beautifully reflects on this: “He is the Prince of Peace whose first coming has already transformed society but whose second coming will forever establish justice and righteousness. All this, and infinitely more, alive in an impoverished baby in a barn. That is what Christmas means – to find in a place where you would least expect to find anything you want, everything you could ever want.” As we celebrate Christmas, we remember that this peace is available to all who trust in Christ. However, the fullness of His peace will only be realized when He returns to reign as King forever (Revelation 21:1-4). Until that day, we are called to live as ambassadors of His peace, proclaiming the gospel to a world in desperate need of reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).
Conclusion
As we conclude, let us bring the weight of these truths to bear upon our hearts. Christmas is not merely a story of tender nativity scenes and angelic hymns. It is the declaration absolute truth, where the Eternal Father, Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor and Prince of Peace stepped into the brokenness of this world to redeem sinners. The birth of Christ heralds both the tenderness of His humanity and the thunderous authority of His deity. The King has come, and His coming demands a response!
Isaiah's prophecy in Isaiah 9 and Paul’s proclamation in Colossians 1 are not theoretical or made up reflections: they are gospel realities with eternal implications. This King, born in Bethlehem, has come to reconcile sinners to a holy God through His perfect life, sacrificial death, confirmed burial, and triumphant resurrection. The manger is inseparably tied to the cross. The baby born to Mary was destined to bear the weight of divine wrath on behalf of all who would repent and believe. If you are not yet in Christ, hear this plea: The King has come, and He offers Himself to all who repent and believe today. His arms are stretched wide in grace, but His return will not be as a humble servant—it will be as a conquering Judge. There is no neutral ground; to delay is to decide. So, what is your response? The gospel calls each of us to a decision: Will you bow to Christ as your Sovereign King now, receiving the grace and salvation He freely offers, or will you reject Him and remain in rebellion against the One who gave His life to redeem sinners? Scripture is clear: one day, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11). But only those who bow in this life, repenting of their sin and trusting in Christ, will experience the joy of salvation. For those who reject Him, bowing in the age to come will bring no salvation but eternal judgment. Choose today whom you will serve. Run to Him now. Turn from your sin, trust in His finished work on the cross, and be reconciled to God. The joy and peace of Christmas will never be fully yours until your heart is surrendered to King Jesus. If you are a believer, let this Christmas season renew your awe and deepen your worship. Celebrate the King who not only reigns but has also redeemed you for His glory. Live in submission to His Lordship, proclaiming His gospel to a world that desperately needs His peace. Christ has come. Christ reigns. And Christ is coming again. The zeal of Yahweh of hosts will accomplish it. Bow before the King and worship Him, for He is worthy.