Isaiah 7:14
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Isaiah 7:14 is a pivotal Old Testament prophecy, foretelling the miraculous birth of the Messiah by a virgin, who would be called Immanuel—meaning 'God with us.' This verse is foundational for Christian belief in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His divine nature and messianic identity. The verse is frequently referenced in Advent and Christmas teachings, serving as a core text for doctrines around the incarnation and fulfillment of messianic prophecy.
Summary
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Isaiah 7:14 declares: 'Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel' (KJV). In the original Hebrew, the term for 'virgin' is 'עַלְמָה (almah),' which denotes a young woman of marriageable age, emphasizing purity and signaling a miraculous conception. The name 'Immanuel' (עִמָּנוּאֵל – 'el with us') directly points to the divine presence amongst humanity. Matthew directly cites this prophecy regarding the birth of Jesus, interpreting it as fulfilled in Christ: 'Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us' (Matthew 1:23, https://www.biblegateway.com/). Historically, Christians have interpreted this as a literal, supernatural sign pointing to the incarnation—the eternal Son of God taking on human flesh (cf. John 1:14, https://www.biblegateway.com/). Theologically, this prophecy affirms the deity of Christ, the mystery of the virgin birth, and God’s faithfulness to His redemptive promises. As such, it is central to orthodox Christology and Trinitarian doctrine.
God’s promise in Isaiah 7:14 is not just a distant prophecy, but a personal assurance that God desires to be present in the midst of our lives. The name Immanuel—'God with us'—reminds us that we are never alone, even in our darkest seasons. The virgin birth points to the extraordinary ways God intervenes in history and in our personal stories. His faithfulness to bring hope and redemption through Jesus is a source of unshakeable comfort. Whatever we face today, this verse calls us to trust: God enters our world and keeps His promises. Let your heart rest in the reality that Christ is with you—now and forever.