![[article cover study.wiki.png]] ![[sub.logo 1.png]][Substack Articles](https://practicalchristian.substack.com/?r=507pdm&utm_campaign=pub-share-checklist)** ![[coffee.png]][Buy me a coffee?](https://givesendgo.com/PracticalChristianity?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=PracticalChristianity) ### **Cross Reference:** #Jesus_Christ, #Christology, #divine_titles, #New_Testament_theology, #biblical_titles, #Lordship_of_Christ, #Son_of_Man, #Son_of_God, #Messiah, #God_with_us --- ## The Titles of Jesus: Revealing His Role, Identity, and Mission The titles of [[Jesus Christ]] are much more than names—they encapsulate profound theological truths and convey His role in the divine plan of salvation. Each title carries with it deep significance, revealing His identity, mission, and preeminence. Let’s explore some of these titles thought by thought, reflecting on how they deepen our understanding of [[Christ]] and His work. ### "The Christ: The Anointed One" *Luke 18:31; Matthew 16:16* The title “[[Christ]]” (from the Greek *Christos*) means "Anointed One" and is synonymous with the Hebrew term "[[Messiah]]." This title affirms that [[Jesus]] is the fulfillment of [[Old Testament]] prophecies regarding a [[deliverer]]. When [[Jesus]] reads from the scroll of [[Isaiah]] in *Luke 4:18–21*, He declares that He is the one anointed by the [[Holy Spirit]] to bring salvation and proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. > By calling [[Jesus]] the [[Christ]], we are recognizing Him as the one appointed by [[God]] to fulfill His divine plan of salvation. This title is so central to [[Jesus]]’ identity that it became closely linked to His name, often appearing as “[Jesus Christ],” almost as if “Christ” were His last name. However, it is a title of great significance, pointing to [[Jesus]]’ divine mission to save humanity from sin and death. #### Application: When you call upon [[Jesus]] as “[the Christ]],” remember that He is the long-awaited [[deliverer]]. Reflect on how this title deepens your understanding of His mission in your life—to rescue, heal, and restore. ### "Son of God: Divine Authority" *Mark 1:1; John 20:28* The title “[Son of God]]” emphasizes [[Jesus]]' unique relationship with [[God the Father]] and His divine authority. In *Mark 1:1*, [[Jesus]] is introduced as the “Son of God,” a title that asserts His divine origin and status. It’s a title that appears frequently in the [[Gospels]], spoken by demons (who recognized His authority), disciples, and [[Jesus]] Himself. > The title “Son of God” is central to understanding [[Jesus]]’ divine nature. It affirms that He was not just a moral teacher or prophet but [[God]] in the flesh, with authority over all creation. In *John 20:28*, [[Thomas]], upon seeing the risen [[Jesus]], declares, *“My Lord and my God!”* This is one of the clearest affirmations of [[Jesus]]’ divinity in [[Scripture]], and it hinges on the understanding that [[Jesus]], as the [[Son of God]], shares in the divine nature of the Father. #### Application: Recognizing [[Jesus]] as the “[[Son of God]]” invites us to submit to His divine authority. How does this title shape your view of [[Jesus]]’ power in your life? Consider the areas where you need to surrender to His lordship, trusting in His divine wisdom. ### "Son of Man: The Heavenly Representative" *Matthew 24:30; Matthew 26:64* The title “[Son of Man]]” is one that [[Jesus]] frequently used to refer to Himself. It’s a complex title, drawing from *Daniel 7:13–14*, where a heavenly figure, the “[[Son of Man]],” is given dominion and glory over all peoples and nations. In *Matthew 24:30*, [[Jesus]] speaks of His return as the “Son of Man” coming on the clouds with great power and glory. > The title “[[Son of Man]]” links [[Jesus]]’ role as both a representative of humanity and the apocalyptic figure who will one day return in glory to judge and rule the cosmos. Though “[[Son of Man]]” emphasizes [[Jesus]]' identification with humanity, it also points to His divine authority to judge and rule the world. This dual meaning highlights the unique nature of [[Jesus]] as both fully human and fully divine. #### Application: Reflect on how [[Jesus]] as the “[Son of Man]]” bridges the gap between heaven and earth, representing us before [[God]]. How does this title encourage you in times of uncertainty or difficulty, knowing that the one who represents you will one day return in glory? ### "Lord: The Divine King" *Philippians 2:9–11* After His resurrection, the title “[Lord]]” (*Kyrios* in Greek) became a powerful affirmation of [[Jesus]]’ divine status. *Philippians 2:9–11* declares that [[God]] has exalted [[Jesus]] and given Him the name above every name, so that “at the name of [[Jesus]] every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth.” This title affirms [[Jesus]]' sovereignty over all creation and His divine authority as [[God]] Himself. > Calling [[Jesus]] “[[Lord]]” is a recognition of His supreme authority. It is more than a title of respect—it acknowledges that [[Jesus]] is [[God]], with power over life, death, and everything in between. The early Christians boldly declared that [[Jesus]] is *Kyrios*, which was a direct assertion of His divinity, particularly in contrast to the Roman Empire, where “[[Lord]]” was a title reserved for Caesar. #### Application: When you declare [[Jesus]] as [[Lord]], you are submitting to His rule in your life. In what areas of your life do you need to more fully submit to [[Jesus]]' lordship, trusting in His guidance and care? ### "The Word: God’s Creative and Redemptive Power" *John 1:1* *John 1:1* introduces [[Jesus]] as “[the Word]]” (*Logos*), saying, *“In the beginning was the [[Word]], and the [[Word]] was with [[God]], and the [[Word]] was [[God]].”* This title emphasizes [[Jesus]]' role in creation and His divine nature. The “[[Word]]” is the communication of [[God]], the one through whom all things were made, and the one who became flesh to dwell among us. > As the “[[Word]],” [[Jesus]] is the embodiment of [[God]]’s wisdom, power, and purpose. He is both the creator and the redeemer, the one through whom [[God]]’s ultimate plan is revealed. The early church understood “[[the Word]]” to mean that [[Jesus]] is the wisdom and reason of [[God]] made manifest. Through Him, the universe was created and is sustained. #### Application: The title “[[Word]]” invites us to see [[Jesus]] not only as Savior but as the one through whom all of life has its meaning and purpose. How does this understanding of [[Jesus]] as the “[[Word]]” change the way you approach [[Scripture]] and your relationship with Him? --- Each title of [[Jesus Christ]] provides a profound insight into His identity, mission, and role in [[God]]’s redemptive plan. These titles—[[Christ]], [[Son of God]], [[Son of Man]], [[Lord]], and [[Word]]—reveal another facet of who He is, our Savior and King. Let them guide your worship and devotion, reminding you of His preeminence and presence in every aspect of your life.