Post by Jacob –
I wanted to share one of Isaiah’s writings that consists of a messianic prophecy that talks about Jesus Christ and His mortal ministry and His kingship. I appreciate Nephi letting me make this post.
The lands of Zebulun and Naphtali are pivotal in the various political struggles that have and will take place in this region. When Jesus Christ comes during His mortal ministry, He will spend much of His ministry in this same region called the Galilee. Prior to His ministry, as prophesied by Isaiah, various kingdoms will have conquered and fallen by the time Christ comes in the flesh. Until Christ comes, the people will walk in darkness because of their disobedience. Christ will be a Great Light to them and the rest of the world.
Isaiah says the joy at His coming will be like the rejoicing in a successful harvest or the rejoicing when an army divides the spoil after a victory. This will be the type of joy to be experienced when the yoke of bondage to wickedness is broken and the oppressor is overthrown.
I love Isaiah’s words as he so joyfully introduces our Savior. “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.”
How could we not rejoice at this proclamation?
The Lord will posses the government and rule with justice forever.
Yet, the wicked will be destroyed by fire. Because of their pride, Israel will be destroyed. Israel is condemned to destruction for following her wicked leaders. Moral decay leads to anarchy in the society and despite the great joy of having yoke and bondage shattered by the great light of Jesus Christ. Many will remain proudly in their bondage and servitude to the things of the world and thus they will be destroyed.
Again, Isaiah prophesies of great joy and redemption and practically in the same breath he warns of destruction for disobedience. As is typical with Isaiah, many of these prophesies are already fulfilled and others will be fulfilled multiple times in multiple ages.
Yet, for all this His anger is not turned away, but His hand is stretched out still.
(Book of Mormon | 2 Nephi 19:1 – 21)
