Introduction

The concept of Jesus' intentionality refers to His deliberate and purposeful actions and teachings throughout His earthly ministry. This intentionality is evident in His interactions, parables, miracles, and ultimate sacrifice. Jesus' life was marked by a clear mission to fulfill the will of the Father, as He consistently demonstrated a focused and unwavering commitment to His divine purpose.

Purposeful Mission

From the outset of His ministry, Jesus was intentional about His mission. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." This proclamation underscores His awareness of His divine calling and His commitment to fulfilling it.

Deliberate Teachings

Jesus' teachings were marked by intentionality, as He often used parables to convey deep spiritual truths. In Matthew 13:10-11, when asked by His disciples why He spoke in parables, Jesus replied, "The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them." His use of parables was a deliberate method to reveal truths to those who were spiritually receptive while concealing them from those who were not.

Intentional Relationships

Jesus was intentional in His relationships, choosing His disciples with purpose and investing in their spiritual growth. In Mark 3:13-14, it is recorded, "Jesus went up on the mountain and called to Him those He wanted, and they came to Him. He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach." His selection of the twelve apostles was a strategic decision to ensure the continuation of His ministry after His ascension.

Purposeful Miracles

The miracles performed by Jesus were not random acts of power but were intentional signs pointing to His identity as the Messiah and the coming of God's kingdom. In John 20:30-31, the apostle John writes, "Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." Each miracle served a specific purpose in revealing His divine nature and authority.

Intentional Sacrifice

The ultimate demonstration of Jesus' intentionality is seen in His sacrificial death on the cross. Jesus was fully aware of His impending crucifixion and willingly submitted to it as part of God's redemptive plan. In John 10:17-18, Jesus states, "The reason the Father loves Me is that I lay down My life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from My Father." His death was not an accident but a deliberate act of obedience and love.

Conclusion

Throughout His life and ministry, Jesus exemplified intentionality in every aspect. His actions and teachings were purposeful, aimed at fulfilling the will of the Father and bringing salvation to humanity. This intentionality serves as a model for believers, encouraging them to live with purpose and dedication to God's calling.