Questions for Isaiah 9:1-7

Key verses 9:6

TO US A CHILD IS BORN

1. What does the term “nevertheless” mean in the flow of this passage (1a)? In the midst of his nation’s dark situation, what hope from God did Isaiah see (1)? What insights does the contrast between “in the past” and “in the future” offer us?
2. What is the condition of “those who are walking in the darkness” and “living in the land of deep darkness” (2)? In what ways did God show grace to them? What is the significance of the present perfect tense used in verse 2?
3. Who do you think “you” and “they” refer to (3)? What does “the day of Midian’s defeat” refer to (4)? How will God restore His people (3-5)?
4. Through whom does God’s work of restoration come (6a)? What does the phrase “The government will be on his shoulders” mean (6b)? How will the child be called, and what could each name signify (6c)?
5. What are the characteristics of his reign (7a)? What will accomplish God’s plan (7b)? What Christmas message do you personally receive from this passage?