Christ's initiative refers to the proactive steps and actions taken by Jesus Christ to fulfill His divine mission on earth, as well as His ongoing work in the lives of believers. This concept is rooted in the understanding that Jesus, as the Son of God, actively engaged in the redemption of humanity and continues to guide and sustain His followers.

Biblical Foundation

The initiative of Christ is evident throughout the New Testament, where His actions and teachings reveal a deliberate and purposeful approach to His mission. In John 10:10, Jesus declares, "I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness." This statement underscores His intentional coming to provide abundant life to humanity.

Incarnation and Ministry

The incarnation itself is a profound demonstration of Christ's initiative. Philippians 2:6-7 states, "Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." Jesus willingly took on human form to dwell among us, initiating the process of redemption.

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus took the initiative to reach out to the marginalized and the lost. In Luke 19:10, He affirms, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." His encounters with individuals such as the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4) and Zacchaeus the tax collector (Luke 19) illustrate His proactive approach to bringing salvation to those in need.

Teaching and Discipleship

Christ's initiative is also evident in His teaching and the establishment of His disciples. He called His disciples personally, as seen in Matthew 4:19, "Come, follow Me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men." This call was not passive but an active invitation to participate in His mission.

Moreover, Jesus took the initiative to teach and prepare His disciples for the work ahead. In Matthew 28:19-20, He commissions them, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

Sacrificial Death and Resurrection

The ultimate expression of Christ's initiative is found in His sacrificial death and resurrection. In John 10:18, Jesus states, "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." His voluntary sacrifice on the cross was a decisive act to atone for the sins of humanity.

The resurrection further demonstrates His initiative, as He conquers death and offers eternal life to all who believe. Romans 6:9 affirms, "We know that since Christ was raised from the dead, He cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over Him."

Ongoing Work and Presence

Christ's initiative did not cease with His ascension. He continues to work actively in the lives of believers through the Holy Spirit. In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth." The Holy Spirit empowers and guides believers, ensuring Christ's ongoing presence and initiative in the world.

Conclusion

Christ's initiative is a central theme in the New Testament, reflecting His active role in the redemption and transformation of humanity. Through His incarnation, ministry, teaching, sacrificial death, and resurrection, Jesus demonstrates a purposeful and proactive approach to fulfilling His divine mission. His ongoing work through the Holy Spirit continues to guide and sustain believers, affirming His commitment to His people.