The role of Jesus Christ is central to Christian theology and is multifaceted, encompassing His identity as the Son of God, His work of salvation, His teachings, and His ongoing presence and authority in the life of believers and the Church. The New Testament provides a comprehensive account of His life, ministry, death, and resurrection, which are foundational to understanding His role.

Messiah and Savior

Jesus is identified as the Messiah, the anointed one promised in the Old Testament. The Gospel of Matthew begins with a genealogy that traces Jesus' lineage to David and Abraham, affirming His rightful place as the promised King (Matthew 1:1-17). His role as Savior is encapsulated in Matthew 1:21, where the angel tells Joseph, "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins."

Son of God

The divine nature of Jesus is affirmed throughout the New Testament. In John 1:1, 14 , it is declared, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." This passage underscores the belief in Jesus as both fully divine and fully human. His baptism, as recorded in Matthew 3:17 , further confirms His divine sonship: "And a voice from heaven said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'"

Teacher and Prophet

Jesus is recognized as a teacher and prophet, whose teachings have had a profound impact on Christian ethics and morality. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is one of His most significant discourses, where He expounds on the law and introduces the Beatitudes, emphasizing the values of the Kingdom of Heaven. In John 13:13 , Jesus acknowledges His role as a teacher: "You call Me Teacher and Lord, and rightly so, because I am."

Redeemer and Sacrifice

Central to Jesus' role is His sacrificial death on the cross, which Christians believe was necessary for the redemption of humanity. In Mark 10:45 , Jesus states, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection are seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the means by which believers are reconciled to God.

High Priest and Mediator

The Epistle to the Hebrews presents Jesus as the ultimate High Priest, who mediates between God and humanity. Hebrews 4:14-16 describes Him as a compassionate and understanding intercessor: "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess... Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

King and Lord

Jesus' role as King and Lord is affirmed in His resurrection and ascension. Philippians 2:9-11 declares, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." His lordship is both a present reality and a future hope, as Christians anticipate His return.

Shepherd and Guide

Jesus is often depicted as the Good Shepherd, who cares for and guides His followers. In John 10:11 , He states, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." This metaphor highlights His protective and nurturing role, as well as His willingness to sacrifice for the well-being of His flock.

Foundation of the Church

Jesus is the cornerstone of the Church, as described in Ephesians 2:20 : "built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the cornerstone." His teachings and resurrection form the basis of Christian faith and community, and His Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 instructs His followers to "go and make disciples of all nations."

The role of Jesus is thus integral to the Christian faith, encompassing His identity, mission, and ongoing influence in the lives of believers and the Church.