For unto us a Child is born
"For unto us a child is born" is a prophetic passage from Isaiah 9:6, which describes the birth of Jesus Christ as a divine and transformative event.
This biblical verse is a messianic prophecy that foretells the coming of a special child who will be more than an ordinary human ruler.
Key Characteristics of the Prophecy
The passage describes this child with extraordinary titles:
Wonderful: The Hebrew word for "wonderful" implies something beyond understanding.
Counselor: This title emphasizes Jesus' unparalleled wisdom and guidance.
Mighty God: This title affirms Jesus' divinity and power. It indicates that the prophesied child is not merely human but is God Himself, possessing all the attributes of deity.
Everlasting Father: This title does not mean Jesus is God the Father, but rather highlights His eternal nature and His role in creating a new humanity. It emphasizes His ability to provide eternal life to those who believe in Him.
Prince of Peace: This title points to Jesus' role in bringing true and lasting peace. It suggests that He will establish a kingdom of peace, both in the hearts of His followers and ultimately in the world.
Significance
These titles collectively emphasize Jesus' divine nature, His authority, and His multifaceted role in God's plan for humanity. They highlight His wisdom, power, eternal existence, and ability to bring peace4. It's important to note that these titles are not separate identities but different aspects of Jesus' character and mission.
The prophecy emphasizes that this child is born "for us" - not for his own sake, but for the redemption and salvation of humanity. The government will "rest upon his shoulders", symbolizing his ultimate authority and leadership.
This passage is famously featured in Handel's Messiah musical composition and is traditionally read during Christmas services as a reminder of Christ's divine mission.
“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. . . .
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. ”
In this video, the full vocal and instrumental forces of the Tabernacle Choir and the Orchestra At Temple Square are brought to bear in a resounding performance of For Unto Us a Child Is Born as written by Georg Friederic Handel in his masterpiece, Messiah.
"Maybe the reason we get chills when we hear them is because they are not just singing a song, they are bearing their testimonies of the Savior, Jesus Christ.”
— Barbara, on YouTube
For a perhaps gentler arrangement of this classic piece, watch this recording of the Rexburg Children's Choir singing For Unto Us a Child is Born. This video was filmed during the Covid pandemic when in-person gatherings were sharply curtailed. Every singer was filmed individually against a “green screen” and then, using the power of video editing, all singers were “placed” to appear as if they were singing together on the same stage. Directing this virtual choir as though it were actually there is Ben Watson.
