Q:Much is made about Isaiah 7:14 in the Christian tradition concerning Old Testament prophecies of Jesus. How do the surrounding verses suggest Jesus?
- Verse 15: "He will eat curds and honey when he knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right." (NIV)
Doesn't Christianity state that Jesus was born sinless and perfect?
-Verse 16:"But before the boy knows enough to reject the wrong and choose the right, the land of the two kings you dread will be laid waste."
What does this refer to in Jesus' earthly life?
-Verse 17: "The LORD will bring on you and on your people and on the house of your father a time unlike any since Ephraim broke away from Judah—he will bring the king of Assyria."
Again, in what part of the New Testament text does this take place?
Don't be afraid to answer.

nealbaskin

Hey Neal,

I will be the first to say that my knowledge of the Scriptures will always be incomplete. As much as I would like to have the answer to everything, in this case I definitely do not. However, your root question is a good one: based on certain texts, how do we reconcile Old Testament with what we see in the New Testament?

For further reference to that question, I would suggest Dr. Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology as a great resource in guiding us through such issues. 

Another suggestion, something that I like to do, is to use the resources of the church in digesting certain difficult texts. For example, using a commentary or other translations in order to see the best comprehension of the verse that other church members have concluded over 2000+ yrs. of church history. This usually lends a helping hand. 

In order to address your other questions: Yes, Jesus is and was sinless and perfect, the Son of God, as revealed to us in the gospel accounts of Jesus’ life by the disciples, and by the revelations to Paul (specifically in Romans) from the Holy Spirit. As Jesus says, He came not to abolish the Law or the Prophets, but to fulfill them (Matthew 5:17-18).

If we believe Jesus, we can trust that Jesus means what he says, and we have no need to worry over His ability to bring all His past promises, words, and revelations to pass. Indeed, He will reconcile all things to himself (Colossians 1:19-20). 

Thanks for that good question! I will pray that we both continue to grow in Christ as we pursue understanding of His Words and as we strive to live them out. 

Thanks again, Neal!