Throughout the New Testament, Jesus Christ articulates His intentions regarding His mission, teachings, and the establishment of God's kingdom. His explanations are pivotal for understanding His role as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

Mission and Fulfillment of Prophecy

Jesus frequently clarifies that His coming is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. In Matthew 5:17 , He 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." This declaration underscores His intention to complete the divine plan outlined in the Hebrew Scriptures, affirming the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.

Proclamation of the Kingdom of God

Central to Jesus' intentions is the proclamation of the Kingdom of God. In Mark 1:15 , He announces, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel!" Jesus' ministry is characterized by the call to repentance and faith, inviting individuals to enter into a transformative relationship with God. His parables and teachings often illustrate the nature and values of this kingdom, emphasizing righteousness, mercy, and justice.

Redemption and Salvation

Jesus explicitly explains His purpose in terms of redemption and salvation. In Luke 19:10 , He declares, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." This statement highlights His mission to rescue humanity from sin and restore them to a right relationship with God. His sacrificial death and resurrection are central to this redemptive plan, as He offers Himself as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world.

Teaching and Discipleship

Jesus' intentions also include the formation of a community of disciples who would carry forward His teachings. In Matthew 28:19-20 , He commissions His followers, saying, "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." This Great Commission underscores His desire for His teachings to be perpetuated and for His followers to live out His commandments.

Revelation of the Father

A significant aspect of Jesus' intentions is to reveal the nature and character of God the Father. In John 14:9 , He tells Philip, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." Through His words and actions, Jesus provides a tangible expression of God's love, holiness, and truth, inviting people to know God intimately.

Preparation for His Return

Jesus also speaks of His intentions regarding His future return. In John 14:2-3 , He assures His disciples, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am." This promise of His return offers hope and assurance of eternal life for believers.

Conclusion

Through His teachings, actions, and ultimate sacrifice, Jesus clearly articulates His intentions to fulfill God's redemptive plan, establish His kingdom, and prepare His followers for eternal life with Him. His explanations provide a foundation for understanding His mission and the transformative impact of His life and work.