The concept of Jesus as the "Sent One" is a central theme in the New Testament, emphasizing His divine mission and authority. This designation underscores the relationship between Jesus and God the Father, highlighting His role in the divine plan of salvation.

Biblical Foundation

The Gospel of John particularly emphasizes Jesus as the Sent One. In John 3:17 , it is stated, "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him." This verse encapsulates the purpose of Jesus' mission: salvation rather than condemnation.

In John 5:36 , Jesus declares, "But I have testimony more substantial than that of John. For the works that the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works I am doing—testify about Me that the Father has sent Me." Here, Jesus points to His works as evidence of His divine sending, affirming His authority and mission.

Divine Authority and Mission

Jesus' identity as the Sent One is closely tied to His authority. In John 6:38-39 , He states, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of those He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day." This passage highlights Jesus' submission to the Father's will and His role in the eternal security of believers.

Furthermore, in John 7:16 , Jesus asserts, "My teaching is not My own, but it comes from Him who sent Me." This reinforces the idea that Jesus' teachings are divinely sourced, carrying the authority of God Himself.

Relationship with the Father

The sending of Jesus is a testament to the intimate relationship between the Father and the Son. In John 8:29 , Jesus says, "The One who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him." This verse illustrates the unity and continuous presence of the Father with Jesus, affirming His divine mission.

In John 10:36 , Jesus challenges His opponents, saying, "Then what about the One whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world? How can you accuse Me of blasphemy for stating that I am the Son of God?" Here, Jesus emphasizes His sanctification and sending by the Father, asserting His divine sonship and mission.

Role in Salvation

The sending of Jesus is integral to the plan of salvation. In John 12:44-45 , Jesus proclaims, "Whoever believes in Me does not believe in Me alone, but in the One who sent Me. And whoever sees Me sees the One who sent Me." This statement highlights the unity between Jesus and the Father, and the belief in Jesus as belief in God Himself.

In John 17:3 , during His high priestly prayer, Jesus prays, "Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." This verse underscores the knowledge of God and Jesus as essential to eternal life, emphasizing the significance of Jesus' sending.

Commissioning of Believers

The theme of sending extends to the commissioning of believers. In John 20:21 , after His resurrection, Jesus tells His disciples, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." This commission reflects the continuation of Jesus' mission through His followers, empowering them to spread the Gospel.

Conclusion

The portrayal of Jesus as the Sent One is a profound aspect of His identity and mission. It highlights His divine authority, intimate relationship with the Father, and central role in the salvation of humanity. Through His sending, believers are also called to participate in the mission of spreading the Gospel to the world.