Christograph

Isaiah 7:14 — "Virgin or Young Woman"

Whether the Hebrew word 'almah' in Isaiah 7:14 should be translated as 'virgin' (as in the Septuagint and Matthew 1:23) or 'young woman,' and the implications for the doctrine of the virgin birth.

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Overall consensus83/100

International Churches of Christ

International Churches of Christ

Adventist & Restorationist

Affirms

Isaiah 7:14 prophesies virgin birth; 'almah' understood as virgin

The International Church of Christ affirms the traditional reading of Isaiah 7:14 as a messianic prophecy of the virgin birth. The Hebrew term 'almah' is understood as designating a virgin, consistent with the Septuagint rendering and Matthew's fulfillment claim. This interpretation is foundational to ICC's understanding of Jesus' incarnation and uniqueness.

The virgin birth is affirmed as a genuine historical and miraculous event, central to Christ's redemptive mission. Mary's virginity in the conception of Jesus is understood as establishing Jesus' divine nature and his role as Savior. The prophecy-fulfillment pattern is crucial to ICC's hermeneutical approach to Scripture.

Key Distinctions

Almah translation:
genuine virginity
Prophecy fulfillment:
literal messianic prophecy
Marian doctrine:

Scripture References

Sources

  • International Church of Christ doctrinal teachings
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