Topical Encyclopedia The title "Only Begotten" is a profound designation attributed to Jesus Christ, emphasizing His unique and singular relationship with God the Father. This term is deeply rooted in the theological understanding of Jesus' divine nature and His eternal sonship.Biblical Foundation The term "Only Begotten" is primarily derived from the Greek word "monogenēs," which is used in the New Testament to describe Jesus' unique status as the Son of God. This title underscores the exclusivity and singularity of Jesus' divine origin and His unparalleled relationship with the Father. John 1:14 : "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." In this passage, the Apostle John highlights the incarnation of Jesus, identifying Him as the "one and only Son" who reveals the glory of God. The phrase "one and only" is a translation of "monogenēs," emphasizing Jesus' unique sonship. John 3:16 : "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This well-known verse encapsulates the essence of the Gospel message, presenting Jesus as the "one and only Son" given by God for the salvation of humanity. The use of "monogenēs" here underscores the depth of God's love and the singularity of Jesus' role in the divine plan of redemption. Theological Significance The title "Only Begotten" affirms the eternal generation of the Son, a doctrine that asserts Jesus' co-eternity and co-equality with the Father. It distinguishes Jesus from all created beings, affirming His divine nature and pre-existence. This title is crucial in understanding the Trinitarian relationship within the Godhead, where Jesus is eternally begotten, not made, and of the same essence as the Father. Hebrews 1:5 : "For to which of the angels did God ever say, 'You are My Son; today I have become Your Father'? Or again, 'I will be His Father, and He will be My Son'?" This rhetorical question in Hebrews underscores the unique sonship of Jesus, distinguishing Him from angels and all other beings. The title "Only Begotten" reinforces His divine status and the intimate relationship He shares with the Father. Christological Implications The designation "Only Begotten" is central to Christology, the study of the person and work of Christ. It affirms the full divinity of Jesus, while also acknowledging His incarnation as fully human. This dual nature is essential for understanding the redemptive work of Christ, as only one who is both fully God and fully man could mediate between God and humanity. 1 John 4:9 : "This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him." Here, the Apostle John reiterates the theme of divine love manifested through the sending of the "one and only Son." The title "Only Begotten" is integral to the understanding of Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God's love and the means by which eternal life is offered to believers. In summary, the title "Only Begotten" is a profound expression of Jesus Christ's unique and eternal relationship with God the Father, underscoring His divine nature and essential role in the salvation of humanity. Nave's Topical Index John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Nave's Topical Index Library On the Clause, and in one Lord Jesus Christ, with a Reading from ... Cli. Letter or Address of Theodoret to the Monks of the ... The Fifth Theological Oration. Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources What is the Jesus Family Tomb? Has the lost tomb of Jesus Christ been discovered? | GotQuestions.orgIs Jesus the Messiah? | GotQuestions.org Why did God send Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Jesus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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