1. Matthew 4:12-17

2.  In Matthew 4:12-17 we find a prophecy from Isaiah. ◦ This is a direct prophecy—Isaiah had Jesus only in mind when he wrote these words. ◦ There are some who say that the prophecy in its original context referred to Hezekiah.  However, the direct nature of this prophecy becomes apparent as you read from it.  How could Hezekiah, for example, be called “Mighty God” (v 6)?

4.  Isaiah 9:1-7. ◦ This is found in the section of the Book where Isaiah is predicting the coming Babylonian Captivity. ◦ Yet, as we find in the second part of Isaiah, God, through the prophet, wants to give the people hope.

5.  In context, a great Assyrian invasion is threatening. ◦ In fact, the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali are conquered by King Tiglath-Pilesar about 733 BC. ◦ They are under oppression (“darkness”), but they are going to see a great light.  How would an occupation by a foreign power be “darkness”?  What hope would it be that in about 750 years the Messiah is going to come and live there?

6.  Important for us to think about is Isaiah 9:6. ◦ This prophecy is nowhere mentioned directly in the New Testament.  However, it is clearly Messianic.  It occurs in a context which is referenced in the New Testament. ◦ How is Jesus a “Wonderful Counselor”? ◦ Why would Isaiah refer to him as “Mighty God”? ◦ If Jesus is the Son of God, how is He the “Everlasting Father”?  What do we learn about Jesus’ pre-existence here? ◦ How is Jesus the Prince of Peace?

7.  How will there be no end to the increase of His kingdom?  What is the significance of the mention of David’s throne?

9.  Matthew 4:12-17. ◦ Why would Jesus depart into Galilee when he heard that John had been arrested? ◦ Why would Matthew record that Capernaum is on the sea coast?

10.  Jesus’ moving into Galilee is quite significant. ◦ It’s significant because it is the fulfillment of prophecy. ◦ It is also significant because many Gentiles lived in Galilee.  This text “foreshadows” Jesus’ ministry to the Gentiles.  “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations” (Matt 28:18-19).  Remember, however, it took the church a long time to recognize fully that Gentiles were to be accepted into God’s family.  The Holy Spirit had to fall upon Cornelius and his household.  The Jerusalem Conference was a large debate about the role of the Law in the obedience of the Gentiles.  Did Jesus ever minister to Gentiles during his earthly ministry?  What are some examples?  Why is it important that Jesus’ ministry is universal?

11.  The people have seen a great light. ◦ How was Jesus a light for these people? ◦ How is Jesus a light for us?