What does "the Christ of God" reveal about Jesus' divine mission and identity? The Setting: Peter’s Bold Confession (Luke 9:20) “But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” Unpacking the Title “Christ” • “Christ” (Greek Christos) translates the Hebrew Mashiach—“Anointed One.” • Kings (1 Samuel 16:13), priests (Leviticus 8:12), and prophets (1 Kings 19:16) were anointed, foreshadowing a single, ultimate Anointed One. • By adding “of God,” Peter declares that Jesus is uniquely anointed and commissioned by the Father, not self-appointed or merely recognized by people. What the Title Reveals about Jesus’ Identity • Divine Sonship – Luke 1:35: “The holy One to be born will be called the Son of God.” – John 20:31: The sign record exists “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.” • Long-Promised King – Psalm 2:2, 6-7: “The kings of the earth take their stand…against the LORD and against His Anointed.” – Isaiah 9:6-7: Government rests on His shoulders; His throne is eternal. • Perfect Prophet – Deuteronomy 18:15: A prophet like Moses; Acts 3:22-23 affirms Jesus as that Prophet. • Eternal High Priest – Psalm 110:4; Hebrews 5:5-6: Appointed “a priest forever.” What the Title Reveals about His Mission • Spirit-Empowered Service – Acts 10:38: “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power.” – Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-19: He proclaims good news, freedom, sight, favor. • Atoning Sacrifice – Isaiah 53:5-6: Pierced for our transgressions. – Mark 10:45: Came “to give His life as a ransom for many.” • Resurrection and Reign – Acts 2:30-36: God raised and enthroned Him. – 1 Corinthians 15:25-27: All enemies placed under His feet. • Final Restoration – Revelation 11:15: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ.” Living Implications • Jesus is not one option among many; He is God’s exclusive, authoritative Messiah. • Because He is “the Christ of God,” His words carry divine weight—our response must be trust and obedience (Matthew 17:5). • His mission moves from cross to crown; believers share in both His sufferings and His glory (Romans 8:17). |
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