Christ-Centered Reading is an interpretative approach to the Bible that emphasizes understanding Scripture through the lens of Jesus Christ. This method seeks to recognize Christ as the central figure and ultimate fulfillment of biblical revelation, asserting that all Scripture points to Him. This approach is rooted in the belief that Jesus is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, as articulated throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Biblical Foundation

The foundation for Christ-Centered Reading is found in the Bible itself. Jesus, after His resurrection, explained to His disciples how the Scriptures pointed to Him: "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself" (Luke 24:27). This passage underscores the belief that the entirety of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, bears witness to Christ.

Old Testament

In the Old Testament, Christ-Centered Reading involves identifying types, shadows, and prophecies that prefigure Jesus. For instance, the sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. The Passover lamb, as described in Exodus 12, is interpreted as a type of Christ, the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).

Prophecies concerning the Messiah, such as those found in Isaiah 53, are also central to this approach. Isaiah's depiction of the suffering servant is viewed as a direct prophecy of Jesus' atoning death. Additionally, the Davidic Covenant, which promises an eternal kingdom through David's lineage (2 Samuel 7:12-16), is fulfilled in Christ, the "Son of David" (Matthew 1:1).

New Testament

In the New Testament, Christ-Centered Reading focuses on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises and the foundation of Christian faith. The Gospels present Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills the Law and the Prophets. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus states, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them" .

The epistles further develop this theme, with the Apostle Paul emphasizing the centrality of Christ in all things. In Colossians 1:16-17, Paul writes, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together" . This passage highlights the preeminence of Christ in creation and redemption.

Theological Implications

Christ-Centered Reading has significant theological implications. It affirms the unity and coherence of the Bible, viewing it as a single narrative centered on God's redemptive work through Christ. This approach encourages believers to see their own lives and the world through the lens of Christ's teachings and sacrifice.

Moreover, it emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel, as believers are called to live in light of Christ's example and teachings. The Apostle Paul encapsulates this in Galatians 2:20: "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" . This verse reflects the believer's identification with Christ and the call to a Christ-centered life.

Practical Application

Practically, Christ-Centered Reading involves prayerful study and meditation on Scripture, seeking to discern how each passage reveals aspects of Christ's character and mission. It encourages believers to engage with the Bible not merely as a historical document but as a living testimony to the person and work of Jesus.

This approach also fosters a deeper appreciation for the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, encouraging believers to explore the rich tapestry of biblical themes that converge in Christ. By focusing on Jesus as the interpretative key, believers are equipped to grow in their faith and understanding of God's purposes.