Jesus Christ: The Anointed One

In Matthew 1:16, we encounter a pivotal declaration: “And Jacob begot Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.” The name "Christ" is not a surname, but a title with deep theological and spiritual significance.

The Greek word Christos (χριστός) and its Hebrew counterpart Mašíaḥ (מָשִׁיחַ), meaning “Messiah” or “the Anointed One,” point to Jesus’s unique identity and mission. In the Old Testament, anointing with oil symbolized consecration, setting apart individuals for divine service as kings, priests, or prophets. This act represented God’s empowerment through the Holy Spirit, enabling the anointed to fulfill their divine calling.

When we call Jesus "Christ," we recognize Him as the ultimate fulfillment of this anointing—God’s chosen and consecrated Savior who embodies the roles of King, Priest, and Prophet.

The Role of the Anointed One

1. The King:
   Jesus, as the Christ, is the King of Kings, the one anointed to reign over God's eternal kingdom. Unlike earthly kings, His reign is marked by justice, peace, and love. His kingdom is not limited by borders or time but is eternal and universal.

2. The Priest:
   As the anointed High Priest, Jesus serves as the mediator between God and humanity. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He reconciled us to God, offering not only forgiveness of sins but also direct access to the Father.

3. The Prophet:
   Prophets in the Old Testament were anointed to speak God’s truth, revealing His will to the people. Jesus, as the Christ, is the ultimate Prophet who not only spoke God’s words but embodied them. He is the living Word of God, the full revelation of the Father’s heart.

The Fulfillment of God’s Promises

The title "Christ" is a testament to God’s faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, prophets spoke of a Messiah who would bring salvation, justice, and restoration. Jesus fulfilled every prophecy, from His birth to His death and resurrection. He is the long-awaited Anointed One, the culmination of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

As the Christ, Jesus wasn’t sent merely as a response to humanity's sin. He was the centerpiece of God's eternal plan to bring redemption and establish His kingdom. His anointing signifies that He alone is divinely appointed and empowered to accomplish this mission.

Christ's Anointing and Its Impact Today

Jesus’s anointing is not just historical; it is transformational. As the Christ, He continues to reign as King, intercede as Priest, and guide as Prophet. His anointing is a source of hope, healing, and deliverance for us today.

When we embrace Jesus as the Christ, we are acknowledging His authority and submitting to His lordship. His anointing empowers us to live out our faith, walk in freedom, and participate in His mission of bringing God’s kingdom to earth.

A Personal Reflection

Take a moment to reflect on what it means that Jesus is the Christ in your life. How has His kingship brought order and peace to your heart? How has His priestly role drawn you closer to God? How has His prophetic voice guided you in truth?

Acknowledging Jesus as the Christ is an invitation to align every area of your life under His authority. It is a call to live in the freedom, hope, and purpose He offers as the Anointed One.

A Call to Action

This Christmas season, let the title "Christ" remind you of God’s faithfulness and the hope we have in Jesus. Share this truth with someone in your life, whether through a conversation, a prayer, or an act of kindness. Be a reflection of His anointing in the world around you.

Let Us Pray:

Lord Jesus, You are the Christ, the Anointed One. Thank You for fulfilling God’s promises and for being faithful to the mission You were anointed to carry out. Help me to understand more deeply who You are and to live in the truth of Your anointing. May I recognize Your authority and power over every area of my life, and may Your kingdom reign in my heart today. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.

As we continue to unwrap the names of Jesus, let this reflection on “Christ” deepen your understanding of who He is. Each name reveals another facet of His character and mission, inviting us into a closer relationship with Him.