VideoBible

Give Now

VideoBible

Give Now

What does Christ mean?

Brief Answer

The title “Christ” means “Anointed One,” signifying Jesus as the promised Messiah, chosen by God to bring salvation to humanity. It reflects His divine mission to fulfill Old Testament prophecies and establish God’s kingdom on earth.

Understanding the Title “Christ” from a Biblical Perspective

The word “Christ” is derived from the Greek word Christos, which translates the Hebrew word Mashiach or “Messiah.” Both terms mean “Anointed One” and refer to someone chosen and empowered by God for a specific purpose. In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed with oil as a symbol of being set apart for God’s work. Jesus, as the Christ, embodies all these roles perfectly-He is our ultimate King, High Priest, and Prophet.

Key Biblical References

Historical Context

The Jewish people longed for the Messiah, a deliverer who would rescue them from oppression and establish God’s eternal kingdom. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies pointing to this promised Savior, including:

  • Genesis 3:15: The promise of one who would crush the serpent’s head.
  • 2 Samuel 7:12-16: God’s covenant with David, promising an eternal King from his lineage.
  • Isaiah 53: The suffering servant who would bear the sins of many.

When Jesus came, many expected a political leader to overthrow Roman rule. However, Jesus’ mission was far greater: He came to save humanity from sin and reconcile us to God. His life, death, and resurrection fulfilled the Messianic prophecies in ways that exceeded human expectations.

Practical Implications

Understanding Jesus as the Christ has profound implications for our lives:

  • Salvation: Jesus, the Anointed One, is the only way to reconciliation with God (John 14:6).
  • Lordship: Recognizing Jesus as the Christ means surrendering to Him as Lord and King.
  • Hope: His role as Messiah assures us of God’s faithfulness and the promise of eternal life.

Theological Depth and Insight

Jesus as the Christ is central to Christian theology. He fulfills three key offices:

  1. Prophet: Jesus reveals God’s truth and will, bringing God’s word to humanity (Deuteronomy 18:15; John 1:18).
  2. Priest: As High Priest, He offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin and intercedes for us before God (Hebrews 4:14-16).
  3. King: Jesus reigns as the eternal King, establishing God’s kingdom and ruling with justice and righteousness (Revelation 19:16).

These roles underscore His sufficiency as the Savior and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

Broader Biblical Themes

  • The Anointed One in Scripture:
    • Kings: David and Solomon were anointed as earthly kings, foreshadowing Jesus’ eternal kingship.
    • Priests: Aaron and his descendants were anointed to mediate between God and His people, pointing to Jesus as our ultimate High Priest.
    • Prophets: Elijah and others were anointed to speak God’s truth, a role Jesus fulfills perfectly.
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus’ life and mission fulfill hundreds of Old Testament prophecies, affirming His identity as the Christ.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit affirms and empowers Jesus as the Christ:

  • At His Baptism: The Spirit descended on Jesus, confirming Him as God’s Anointed One (Matthew 3:16-17).
  • In His Ministry: Jesus performed miracles and proclaimed the kingdom of God through the Spirit’s power (Luke 4:18).
  • In Believers: The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus as the Christ to us, enabling faith and guiding us to live in obedience to Him (John 16:13-14).

Relevance for Today’s Christian

Recognizing Jesus as the Christ shapes how we live:

  • Faith: We place our trust in Him as our Savior and Redeemer.
  • Obedience: We follow Him as our Lord, aligning our lives with His will.
  • Mission: We share the good news of Christ with others, participating in God’s kingdom work.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

The title “Christ” encapsulates God’s love for humanity. By sending Jesus, God fulfilled His promise to redeem us from sin and restore our relationship with Him. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross demonstrates the depth of His love and the extent of His mission as the Anointed One (Romans 5:8). In Christ, we see God’s perfect plan of salvation and His desire for all people to know Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

  1. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus is the Christ?
  2. How can understanding Jesus as the Anointed One deepen your faith and trust in Him?
  3. In what ways can you live out your recognition of Jesus as Prophet, Priest, and King?
  4. How does the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus strengthen your confidence in God’s Word?
  5. How can you share the message of Jesus as the Christ with others in your life?

Related Videos