One day, while quoting the prophet Isaiah to His disciples about the use of parables, Jesus told them:
17 for assuredly, I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.Matthew 13:17 NKJV
Isaiah wrote many words describing the coming Messiah over seven centuries before Jesus came. One amazing thing he wrote was that Messiah would not just be human, but also divine. This must have been difficult for believers of his day to comprehend. Surely the prophet also wondered what it all meant and longed to see it for himself.
6 … And His name will be called
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6b NKJV
We now recognize Jesus Christ as the fulfilment of this prophecy. But even some of Jesus’ closest disciples did not put this all together in their own minds at the time.
How about the rest of Isaiah’s prophecy about the eternal reign of Jesus? What will this look like?
7 Of the increase of His government and peace
There will be no end,
Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
From that time forward, even forever.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. Isaiah 9:7 NKJV
Just as with the portion of scripture that described the divinity of Messiah, there are clues throughout the Bible that tell us what Jesus’ global reign will look like. But like the prophets before us, there will almost certainly be aspects of this event that will surprise us, greatly surpassing our current understanding or expectations.
Many believers throughout history have longed to see Jesus’ return, but did not get to witness it during their earthly lives. Likely they will have some kind of a heavenly ring-side seat to watch when Jesus comes in glory to establish His kingdom.
Some of the mysteries that Isaiah lays out here for us are:
- Ever Increasing Government and Peace
Jesus’ authority will be global, covering all nations, such that they will all lay down their arms and convert their instruments of war into agricultural tools. But “ever increasing”, what does that mean? Does it mean it will start with the earth, then expand throughout the universe? This is one unknown that will likely surprise and amaze us.
- Upon the Throne of David
The Lord told David that he would always have a descendant on the throne of Israel, and Jesus fulfills this as a blood descendant of David through Mary and also Stepfather Joseph. But there are some indications in the Bible that even David himself may spend time ruling on Jesus’ throne in Jerusalem, shepherding the people of the world and not just the nation of Israel.
- Ordered and Established with Judgement and Justice
We will not be able to hide any injustice in the new kingdom of heaven. Actions and even motives will be revealed. Despite our imperfections and sin, we will still be allowed to come to the great wedding feast of Jesus and His church by the covering of His grace and mercy, through faith. This gift is extended to believers through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, and by His resurrection as the first-born of many from the dead.
- From that Time Forward, Even Forever
Jesus said that He would come at a time when no expected to see Him, like a thief in the night. Despite knowing the times and the seasons, we who are here will still be blind-sided. From that sudden moment bursting on the scene into all eternity, the secrets and wonders of Jesus and His kingdom will play out before our eyes.
One thing is for certain: when that great banquet comes, we will most definitely want to be there. Reach out today to seek the God who loves you deeply.
Reflection
Lord, we long to see You and Your coming kingdom of peace. Forgive all of my failures and sins and help me to do better the next time. Teach us to draw closer to You through Your great gifts of faith, mercy, and grace. Thank You for loving me – help me to share that love with each and every person You have placed around me. Help me to remember that You love them as much as You love me. Teach me to forgive. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Daily Meditations from the Genealogy of Jesus 