Isaiah 61:1–3
Isaiah prophesied of Jesus came to earth to preach good tidings unto the meek, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, and comfort all that mourn. At the beginning of his ministry, Jesus quoted Isaiah to announce Himself as Messiah, Luke 4:16-21, which caused something of an uproar. If we really look at these words they mean so much more than at first glance. Certainly, Jesus comforts and encourages, but HOW does He do this? The example He set for us is the way to find peace and joy on earth. His atonement grace binds and heals the wounds we inflict upon ourselves and others give us through sin if we ask for and accept His gift.
Luke 3:4-6
John the baptist prophesied that Jesus would remove the sins of the world, bring salvation unto the heathen nations, gather together those who are lost, make possible the preaching of the gospel unto the Gentiles, be a light unto all who sit in darkness, bring to pass the resurrection from the dead, administer justice unto all, and convince all the ungodly of their ungodly deeds. John's list is more specific than Isaiah's but means basically the same thing. Although many throughout world history have committed atrocities in the name of Jesus Christ, He is the Prince of Peace. His ways are loving, patience, kindness, generosity, humility, thoughtfulness, vigilance, prudence, unselfishness, respectfulness, cheerfulness, virtue, hopefulness, faithfulness, stalwartness, valiance, obedience, loyalty, and refusing to take offense or get angry. He shows us the way to have peace on earth and good will toward all men as well as a joyful eternal life.
