Jesus: Our Wonderful Counselor and Source of Salvation
Summary
In today's message, we explored the profound impact that names have, particularly focusing on the name of Jesus, which means "The Lord is my salvation." This discussion was inspired by the personal story of naming my son Joshua, which led us into a deeper reflection on the significance of names in the Bible. We began a new series titled "Name Above All Names," where we delve into the prophecy of Isaiah, who foretold the coming of Jesus, a child who would change everything. Isaiah's prophecy, written 750-800 years before Jesus' birth, speaks of a child who would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. These titles reveal the multifaceted nature of Jesus and his role in our lives.
Isaiah's use of the term "Wonderful Counselor" is particularly significant. In Hebrew, "wonderful" implies something incomprehensible and full of amazement, suggesting that Jesus' wisdom and guidance are beyond human understanding. Jesus, as the Wonderful Counselor, offers wisdom and guidance that are unparalleled. His teachings, often delivered through parables, left people in awe, challenging them to see the world through a divine perspective. His miracles, such as calming the storm and raising Lazarus from the dead, further demonstrated his divine authority and power.
As a counselor, Jesus understands our struggles and empathizes with our weaknesses. He invites us to approach his throne of grace with confidence, promising mercy and grace in our times of need. This invitation is a reminder that we are loved and accepted as we are, without the need to earn his grace. Jesus, the Wonderful Counselor, offers us the best advice, even if it is not always what we want to hear. His guidance is rooted in love and a deep understanding of our lives.
In closing, I encourage you to spend time with Jesus, your Wonderful Counselor. Whether you are wrestling with issues or seeking guidance, he is there to listen and offer wisdom. Take time to be still, listen, and engage in a relationship with him. As we enter this season of reflection and celebration, may we be reminded of the transformative power of Jesus in our lives.
Key Takeaways:
- The significance of names in the Bible is profound, with Jesus' name meaning "The Lord is my salvation." This reflects the transformative power he holds in our lives, offering salvation and a new way of living. [31:15]
- Isaiah's prophecy about Jesus, written centuries before his birth, highlights the divine inspiration and accuracy of biblical prophecy. It reminds us of the timeless relevance of scripture and God's plan for humanity. [35:58]
- Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor offers wisdom that is incomprehensible and full of wonder. His teachings and miracles demonstrate his divine authority and challenge us to see the world through a divine lens. [42:24]
- We are invited to approach Jesus' throne of grace with confidence, knowing that we will receive mercy and grace. This invitation assures us of God's unconditional love and acceptance, encouraging us to seek his guidance without fear. [49:55]
- Engaging with Jesus as our counselor involves listening and being open to his guidance, even when it challenges us. His advice, rooted in love and understanding, is the best path for our lives. [53:35]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[31:15] - The Power of Names
[32:53] - Introduction to Isaiah's Prophecy
[35:58] - Understanding Yahweh
[38:03] - The Light in Darkness
[39:31] - Isaiah's Vision of Jesus
[40:35] - The Meaning of Wonderful
[42:24] - Jesus' Teachings and Miracles
[43:22] - The Wonder of Jesus
[44:55] - Jesus Calms the Storm
[45:54] - Lazarus and the Power of Jesus
[46:59] - Jesus as Our Counselor
[48:30] - The Role of a Counselor
[49:55] - Approaching the Throne of Grace
[51:52] - God's Unconditional Love
[53:35] - Listening to Our Counselor
[54:30] - Closing Reflection
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Name Above All Names"
Bible Reading:
- Isaiah 9:1-7
Observation Questions:
1. What are the different titles given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6, and what do they signify about his character and role? [38:03]
2. How does the sermon describe the meaning of the name "Wonderful Counselor" in the context of Jesus' teachings and miracles? [42:24]
3. What examples from the sermon illustrate Jesus' role as a "Wonderful Counselor"? [46:59]
4. How does the sermon explain the significance of approaching Jesus' throne of grace with confidence? [49:55]
Interpretation Questions:
1. Why might Isaiah have chosen to start with the title "Wonderful Counselor" when describing Jesus, and what does this reveal about the nature of Jesus' guidance? [39:31]
2. How does the sermon suggest that Jesus' wisdom and guidance are beyond human understanding, and what implications does this have for believers seeking his counsel? [42:24]
3. In what ways does the sermon highlight the importance of understanding Jesus' empathy and ability to relate to our struggles? [48:30]
4. How does the sermon challenge common misconceptions about approaching God, and what does it suggest about God's nature and relationship with us? [51:52]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt in need of guidance. How might viewing Jesus as a "Wonderful Counselor" change the way you seek advice or make decisions? [46:59]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of approaching Jesus' throne of grace with confidence. What fears or misconceptions might be holding you back from doing so, and how can you overcome them? [49:55]
3. Consider the ways in which Jesus' teachings and miracles challenge you to see the world through a divine perspective. How can you apply this perspective to a current situation in your life? [42:24]
4. The sermon mentions that Jesus' advice may not always be what we want to hear. Can you think of a time when you received advice that was difficult to accept but ultimately beneficial? How can this experience inform your relationship with Jesus? [53:35]
5. How can you create space in your daily routine to spend time with Jesus, listening and engaging in a relationship with him as your "Wonderful Counselor"? [54:30]
6. Reflect on the transformative power of Jesus in your life. What specific changes have you experienced, and how can you share this impact with others? [54:30]
7. Identify one area of your life where you need Jesus' wisdom and guidance. What steps can you take this week to seek his counsel and apply his teachings? [54:30]
Devotional
Day 1: The Transformative Power of Names
The significance of names in the Bible is profound, particularly the name of Jesus, which means "The Lord is my salvation." This name reflects the transformative power Jesus holds in our lives, offering salvation and a new way of living. Names in biblical times were not just labels but carried deep meanings and implications for one's identity and destiny. Jesus' name encapsulates his mission and purpose, serving as a constant reminder of the salvation he brings to humanity. Understanding the power of Jesus' name invites believers to embrace the new life and hope he offers. [31:15]
Isaiah 43:1 (ESV): "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.'"
Reflection: Consider the meaning of your own name and how it shapes your identity. How does knowing the meaning of Jesus' name inspire you to live differently today?
Day 2: The Timeless Relevance of Prophecy
Isaiah's prophecy about Jesus, written centuries before his birth, highlights the divine inspiration and accuracy of biblical prophecy. This prophecy reminds us of the timeless relevance of scripture and God's plan for humanity. Isaiah's words, foretelling the coming of a child who would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, reveal the multifaceted nature of Jesus and his role in our lives. The accuracy of these prophecies strengthens our faith in the reliability of scripture and God's sovereign plan. [35:58]
2 Peter 1:19-21 (ESV): "And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit."
Reflection: Reflect on a prophecy or promise from the Bible that has impacted your life. How does it encourage you to trust in God's plan for your future?
Day 3: The Wonder of Jesus' Wisdom
Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor offers wisdom that is incomprehensible and full of wonder. His teachings and miracles demonstrate his divine authority and challenge us to see the world through a divine lens. The term "Wonderful Counselor" implies wisdom that is beyond human understanding, inviting believers to seek Jesus' guidance in all aspects of life. His parables and miracles, such as calming the storm and raising Lazarus, reveal his power and authority, encouraging us to trust in his divine wisdom. [42:24]
Colossians 2:2-3 (ESV): "That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
Reflection: Think of a decision you are currently facing. How can you seek Jesus' wisdom and guidance in this situation today?
Day 4: Approaching the Throne of Grace
We are invited to approach Jesus' throne of grace with confidence, knowing that we will receive mercy and grace. This invitation assures us of God's unconditional love and acceptance, encouraging us to seek his guidance without fear. Jesus, as our Wonderful Counselor, understands our struggles and empathizes with our weaknesses, offering us the best advice rooted in love and understanding. This assurance of grace invites believers to come to Jesus with their burdens, trusting in his mercy and love. [49:55]
Hebrews 4:16 (ESV): "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
Reflection: What burden or struggle are you carrying today? How can you approach Jesus with confidence, trusting in his mercy and grace?
Day 5: Listening to Our Divine Counselor
Engaging with Jesus as our counselor involves listening and being open to his guidance, even when it challenges us. His advice, rooted in love and understanding, is the best path for our lives. Jesus invites us to be still and listen, engaging in a relationship with him that transforms our lives. This requires openness to his guidance, even when it challenges our desires or expectations. By trusting in his wisdom, believers can find the best path for their lives, rooted in love and divine understanding. [53:35]
Proverbs 19:20-21 (ESV): "Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need to be more open to Jesus' guidance? How can you practice listening to his voice today?
Quotes
"Isaiah was what's known, in fact he's probably the most well known, of a prophet in the Old Testament. Now if you're not familiar with church or you're kind of newer to church and you hear that word prophet, you might not know exactly what that means. A prophet is somebody who literally, if you're taking notes, speaks forth the Word of God. That's what a prophet does. And for Isaiah and for several prophets in the Old Testament, God gave them a supernatural knowledge not only to speak forth his Word, but to speak what was going to happen in the future." [00:32:53] (37 seconds)
"The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. On those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy. They rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor." [00:36:58] (25 seconds)
"And the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this." [00:37:51] (31 seconds)
"These words that God's inspiring Isaiah to write down are specifically about this Savior that we know by the name of Jesus. He's going to bring light into this dark place. He's going to bring light into this Jesus. And if you notice verse 6, he refers to this little child with several different names, doesn't he? He says he's a wonderful counselor, a mighty God. Then he says he's everlasting father. He's the prince of peace." [00:39:03] (28 seconds)
"Jesus says, relax, I got this, and he stepped up to the tomb where Lazarus was laid, the Bible says, and what did he do? He spoke, and he says, Lazarus, come out, and a dead man full of the linen wrappings walked out of the tomb toward Jesus. You don't think that blew people's minds? Jesus was full of wonder and amazement. He blew our minds. This is the type of Savior we worship. He's a wonder -filled counselor." [00:46:00] (40 seconds)
"In order to help solve a problem, you've got to know a little bit about it, right? And in Colossians chapter two, verse three, the Bible says that Jesus was full of all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. In other words, he was the smartest man who ever lived. I think we've got to think about that, because when we think of who was the smartest man who ever lived? Some people say Einstein. Some people say Dave Ambrose. But most people, most smart people, forget about Jesus." [00:47:06] (29 seconds)
"Because Leanne is a good counselor for us because she knows exactly what we're going through. She knows what we're facing because she also has adult children. She gets it. How is Jesus a wonderful counselor? Well, check this out. This passage is written about Jesus from the book of Hebrews chapter four. Here's what the Bible says, referring to Jesus. We do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way just as we are, yet he did not sin." [00:49:01] (36 seconds)
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