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
Gibbor, or Gibhor, is translated here as mighty and denotes power and strength. It is associated with the language of war and a more literal translation has been suggested as powerful champion. It’s first use is with the giant Nephilim in Genesis 6 but it is also used of David’s mighty men of war and of Joshua’s soldiers as well.
This is how Isaiah speaks of the coming Messiah. He calls Him El Gibbor, Mighty God. And with that, we need to hear not just His power, but His role as a warrior. He conquered sin and death. He judges the unrighteous and brings justice. And He alone is worthy and will be the final and ultimate victor.
Ancient warfare had a custom of pitting their best soldiers, their champions, against one another. A whole battle would be determined by just a few men, each representing their king and the whole army. As an example, David took on the Philistine champion Goliath in a winner take all match. David went out as Saul’s champion, fighting in his place.
In the battles we face, what a comfort to know we have a Champion. This Child that is born is also a warrior that will conquer death. His love is paired with His strength. He is my Powerful Champion and will fight in my place. His victory is assured. He will come again and put things to right. But for now, we know that the babe in the manger, the Prince of Peace, is also El Gibbor, Mighty God.
And now, our God, the great and mighty and awesome God (El Gibbor), who keeps His covenant of unfailing love, do not let all the hardships we have suffered be as nothing to you. Nehemiah 9:32
1 Response