Isaiah 9:6-7 " 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, COUNSELOR, The MIGHTY GOD, The EVERLASTING FATHER, The PRINCE of PEACE. Of the increase of HIS government and peace there shall be no end, upon HIS kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
The Naturalistic Worldview: Because man is naturally good, he can generate world peace through international dialogue, global disarmament, and the equal distribution of wealth. World peace can be obtained through human effort.
The Religious Worldview: Mankind can create peace on earth through the establishment of GOD's kingdom. This "kingdom" will result from international political dialogue, disarmament, the unity of all religions, and meeting the physical needs of the poor and oppressed. JESUS CHRIST is an exemplary figure for mankind to follow. Mankind's efforts - not GOD HIMSELF - will eventually implement this world peace.
The Biblical Worldview: No worldwide peace will exist until JESUS comes to inaugurate HIS 1,000 - year reign upon the earth. Today's text prophesies of this glorious time when the "PRINCE of PEACE" (v.6) will rule and reign. Concerning this peace, "there shall be no end" (v.7). Of course, as much as possible, believers are to live peaceably among all men, but mankind will never implement worldwide peace. Only GOD will do so when HE returns to the earth in power and great glory with HIS saints to fulfill HIS covenant with Israel - "The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this" (v.7).
The Answer: JESUS CHRIST is the righteous JUDGE WHO one day will personally implement worldwide peace. HE will physically rule the world in perfect righteousness and justice. Yet even today, HE can bring peace to the heart of every man, woman, and child who believes in HIM (Romans 5:1). HE offers a peace that passes all understanding to those who trust in HIM and place their confidence in HIS absolute promises. MDC
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.feasite.org
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