We have now completed our study of the content and context of Isaiah 9:1-7 and have reviewed the commentaries and other literature. At this point we can move on to plan a sermon that explains and applies this text.
1. Write out the main thought of the text.
I would say the main thought of Isaiah 9:1-7 is: God will send a royal child who will be both human and divine and whose everlasting rule over his people will give them joy, freedom and peace.
2. Write out the purpose of the text.
The purpose of Isaiah 9:1-7: In a time when the immediate future of God’s people is dark, Isaiah is seeking to give them long-term hope.
3. Review legitimate ways to preach Christ from the text.
The New Testament and the Christian church have understood this to be a prophecy of the coming of Jesus Christ, and therefore it is legitimate to relate it directly to him.
4. Decide how you will apply the text to your audience.
What do we share in common with those to whom (or about whom) the text was written?
People today find themselves in spiritual darkness because of their sin and the presence of sin in the world. While they may not be physical enslaved or subject to an invasion, they do find themselves enslaved spiritually and engaged in spiritual warfare.
How should we respond to the truths in the text?
We should believe the good news that God has fulfilled this prophecy by sending his Son Jesus Christ to rule eternally and give us light, joy, freedom and peace. We should put our trust in Jesus Christ. We should share the good news of his coming with others who need to hear it.
What does God now require of us?
God wants us to believe that he has fulfilled this prophecy by sending his Son, Jesus Christ, and give him praise and glory. God wants us to put our trust in Christ. God wants us to share the good news of Christ with others.
Where does he require it of us?
If we have never trusted in Christ for salvation, we should do so now. We can express our faith and trust in Christ and give God praise in worship services. We can share the good news with co-workers, classmates, friends and neighbors.
Why does he require it?
God wants us to have light, joy, freedom and peace through his Son, Jesus Christ.
How can we do what he requires?
We can trust in Jesus Christ and give God the glory for the gift of his Son in prayer and praise.
We can be ready to explain the truth about Jesus Christ and to give a reason for the hope that we have (1 Peter 3:15).
4. Write out the main thought and purpose of the sermon.
The main thought of the sermon: In Jesus Christ God has sent a royal child who is both human and divine and whose everlasting rule over his people gives them joy, freedom and peace.
The purpose of the sermon: To encourage those experiencing spiritual darkness and enslavement to hope in Christ and trust in him. To encourage God’s people to praise him for Jesus Christ and share the good news of his coming with others.
5. Develop a coherent sermon outline.
The following is a workable outline. Verse 1 will be treated in the introduction. The first two points focus on verses 6-7. Then the second part of the third point covers verses 2-5.
Introduction: Darkness in Isaiah’s day and ours. How will this child bring light?
I. The Child’s Identity
A. He is human.
B. He is a king.
II. The Child’s Names
A. Wonderful Counselor
B. Mighty God
C. Everlasting Father
D. Prince of Peace
III. The Child’s Reign
A. It will be everlasting.
B. It will bring blessings.
1. Joy
2. Freedom
3. Peace
Conclusion