For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
The prophet Isaiah prophesied that the child to be born, the son to be given would be called Mighty God. The proof is overwhelming that Jesus was the child and son of which Isaiah spoke, Jesus being God in human form. The only logical conclusion is that this child and son would also be called Everlasting Father.
Jesus said to the Jews, “I and the Father are one.” The Jews responded by gathering stones to stone him for blasphemy by making himself God (John 10:30-31). In speaking with his disciples Jesus said, “If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip, one of his disciples, responded, “Show us the Father and it is good enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? (John 14:7-9 ESV)
There are many instances in the life and ministry of Jesus where he exhibited the characteristics of an exemplary father. He showed compassion for his followers by feeding them, meeting a basic need (Matthew 15:32). He revealed truth to them (John 1:17). He displayed his fatherly instinct of protection when he told the Jews that those whom he gives eternal life will never be snatched from his hand (John 10:22-30). When his life was threatened Jesus was more concerned for those who were with him (John 18:1-9). Jesus sought to calm the fear of abandonment in his disciples by assuring them he would not leave them as orphans, that he would come to them and always be with them (John14:18; Matthew 28:20). And he literally gave his life for his flock (John 10:15; Romans 5:8). Jesus assured his disciples that he would provide them with a home. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. (John 14:2-3 ESV)
Isaiah said the child would be called the Everlasting Father or Father of Eternity. Says Spurgeon, ‘Christ is called “the everlasting Father” because he does not himself, as a Father, die or vacate his office. He is still the Federal Head and Father of his people; still the Founder of gospel truth and of the Christian system . . .’ As a father Jesus is the head of his household; the church (Ephesians 1:22; 5:23) and he will forever be.
The prophet Daniel had a vision of the Father of Eternity. “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:13-14 ESV)
Will you be a part of the Everlasting Father’s kingdom?
Scriptures for meditation:
Deuteronomy 33:27
Psalm 90:2
Romans 16:26