Isaiah 7:14

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call Him Immanuel.

Study Bible

Therefore the Lord Himself
This phrase emphasizes the direct involvement of God in the unfolding of His divine plan. The Hebrew word for "Lord" here is "Adonai," which signifies God's sovereign authority and power. In the context of Isaiah, this underscores that the sign to be given is not of human origin but a divine intervention. Historically, this reflects God's active role in the affairs of Israel, assuring them of His presence and control over their destiny.

will give you a sign
The word "sign" in Hebrew is "oth," which often denotes a miraculous event or a divine token. In the biblical narrative, signs are used by God to confirm His promises and to guide His people. This particular sign is meant to reassure King Ahaz and the people of Judah of God's protection and faithfulness. It is a prophetic assurance that transcends the immediate context, pointing to a future fulfillment.

Behold
This word serves as a call to attention, urging the listener or reader to focus on the significance of what follows. It is an invitation to witness something extraordinary and divine. In the prophetic literature, "behold" often precedes a revelation of God's plan or a miraculous event, highlighting its importance and urging belief and reflection.

the virgin
The Hebrew word used here is "almah," which can mean a young woman of marriageable age, but in this context, it is traditionally understood as a virgin, especially in light of its New Testament fulfillment. This term has been the subject of much theological discussion, but within a conservative Christian perspective, it is seen as a clear prophecy of the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, as affirmed in the Gospel of Matthew.

will be with child and will give birth to a son
This phrase describes a miraculous conception and birth, which is central to the Christian doctrine of the Incarnation. The imagery of a virgin conceiving and bearing a son is a powerful testament to God's ability to transcend natural laws. It signifies the coming of a new era and the fulfillment of God's promises through a miraculous event that defies human understanding.

and will call Him Immanuel
The name "Immanuel" means "God with us" in Hebrew. This name encapsulates the essence of the prophecy and its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It signifies God's presence among His people, offering hope, salvation, and a personal relationship with the divine. In the historical context of Isaiah, it reassures the people of Judah of God's nearness and protection. In the broader biblical narrative, it points to the incarnation of Christ, where God literally dwells among humanity, fulfilling His promise of redemption and eternal presence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah is the author of the book bearing his name. He served as a prophet in Judah during the reigns of several kings, including Ahaz.

2. Ahaz
King of Judah during the time of Isaiah's prophecy. He was known for his lack of faith and reliance on foreign alliances rather than trusting in God.

3. Immanuel
Meaning "God with us," this name signifies the divine presence and is a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ in the New Testament.

4. Virgin
The Hebrew word used here is "almah," which traditionally means a young woman of marriageable age. In Christian theology, this is understood as a prophecy of the virgin birth of Jesus.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Isaiah prophesied and where King Ahaz reigned.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Prophecy
Isaiah 7:14 is a cornerstone prophecy that points to the miraculous birth of Jesus, affirming the divine plan of salvation through Christ.

God's Faithfulness
Despite Ahaz's lack of faith, God provides a sign of His faithfulness and commitment to His covenant people, reminding us that God's promises are not dependent on human faithfulness.

The Virgin Birth
This doctrine is central to Christian belief, underscoring the divine nature of Jesus and His role as the Savior. It challenges us to trust in God's supernatural work in our lives.

Immanuel - God with Us
The name Immanuel assures us of God's presence in our lives. In times of trouble or doubt, we can find comfort in knowing that God is with us through Jesus Christ.

Trust in God's Promises
Like Ahaz, we face situations where our faith is tested. Isaiah 7:14 encourages us to trust in God's promises and His timing, even when circumstances seem daunting.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 demonstrate God's sovereignty and control over history?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of this prophecy in the New Testament strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

3. How can the concept of "Immanuel" provide comfort and assurance in your current life circumstances?

4. What are some areas in your life where you struggle to trust God's promises, and how can this passage encourage you to have faith?

5. How does understanding the original context of Isaiah's prophecy to Ahaz enhance your appreciation of its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 1:23
This verse directly quotes Isaiah 7:14, identifying Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecy of Immanuel, emphasizing the virgin birth.

Luke 1:26-35
The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary about the birth of Jesus highlights the miraculous nature of the virgin birth, connecting back to Isaiah's prophecy.

Genesis 3:15
The promise of a seed from the woman who will crush the serpent's head is seen as an early prophecy of the coming Messiah, which Isaiah 7:14 further develops.