Christmas, the celebration of the Virgin Birth of Jesus – the Prince of Peace
One of the things Christians remember at Christmas is the birth of Jesus, the “Prince of Peace.” Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary in fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 7:14), and Jesus was born the “Prince of Peace” in the fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 9:6-7).
- Jesus was the Prince of Peace by virtue of His genealogy – Jesus was a descendant of King Solomon, whose very name meant “peace/shalom” (Matthew 1:6-7; 12:42).
- Jesus’ title, “Son of David” indicates that He is the Prince of Peace (Matthew 1:1).
- When Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary the angels of heaven sang, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14).
- Jesus pronounced a blessing upon peacemakers and taught that His followers should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44).
- Jesus’ miracles indicated He is the Prince of Peace (Matthew 9:27-30; 20:29-34).
- Jesus exemplified peacemaking throughout His ministry even praying for His enemies from the cross, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).
- Jesus gave His disciples peace after He rose from the dead, “Peace be with you” (John 20:19,21,26; cf .John 14:27).
Is Islam or Christianity the Religion of Peace?
- Yusuf-Islam, formerly Cat Stevens
The Muslim convert Yusuf Islam, formerly Cat Stevens, said a comprehensive study on the concept of peace is crucial to achieve a harmonious society. I think this is a great idea, and so here are a few questions to study:
- Does Muhammad’s genealogy indicate he was a man of peace – not to mention the Prince of Peace?
- Do the prophecies of Scripture indicate that Muhammad, not Jesus, was the Prince of Peace?
- Does the Quran record Muhammad’s miracles in such a manner that testify to his being a man of peace?
- Did Muhammad die for his enemies to establish peace?
- Does Islam detract from or deny the biblical emphasis that Jesus is the Prince of Peace?
It should be evident that Muhammad and the religion of Islam is in rebellion against the Prince of Peace. God is gracious and compassionate and it is not too late to confess Jesus as the Prince of Peace, and believe that God has raised Him from the dead (Romans 10:9).
