As our King, Jesus’ kingdom is “now and not yet.” It’s a kingdom now in a spiritual sense—through the power of the gospel, the forgiveness of sins, the Spirit’s work in renewing and transforming us, and the reign of Jesus in our hearts (Matthew 3:2; 4:23; Luke 11:20; John 3:3-5; Romans 14:17; 1 Corinthians 4:20; Colossians 1:13). Literally, the kingdom is still future (not yet) and awaits Jesus’ return to establish his earthly kingdom (perfect justice, mercy, and peace).

1 But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. 

2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. 3 You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. 4 For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. 5 For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness

from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

1. How does Isaiah compare the past time with the future (latter time)? (9:1)

2. How does Isaiah depict the spiritual condition of humanity? (9:2)

3. Read 9:2-5. What kind of imagery does Isaiah use? Why do you think he chose these kinds of words?

4. What’s the relationship between a king and these four titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace?

5. How does Jesus fulfill these four traits/titles of a king?

6. What’s the difference between the literal/physical and figurative/spiritual kingdom of God?

7. How can we partner with Jesus in expanding his “spiritual” kingdom?