The recognition of Jesus' worth is a central theme in Christian theology, emphasizing His divine nature, redemptive work, and ultimate authority. This recognition is not merely an intellectual assent but a heartfelt acknowledgment of His lordship and glory.

Divine Nature and Preeminence

The worth of Jesus is rooted in His divine nature. Colossians 1:15-17 states, "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage underscores Jesus' preeminence and His role as the agent of creation, affirming His divine status and inherent worth.

Redemptive Work

Jesus' worth is also recognized through His redemptive work on the cross. In Revelation 5:9 , the heavenly hosts proclaim, "Worthy are You to take the scroll and open its seals, because You were slain, and by Your blood You purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue and people and nation." This verse highlights the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission and His worthiness to enact God's redemptive plan. His death and resurrection are central to the Christian faith, providing salvation and reconciliation with God.

Authority and Kingship

The authority of Jesus is another aspect of His worth. Matthew 28:18 records Jesus' declaration, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me." This authority is not limited to spiritual matters but extends over all creation, affirming His role as King of kings and Lord of lords. Philippians 2:9-11 further emphasizes this, stating, "Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Worship and Adoration

The recognition of Jesus' worth naturally leads to worship and adoration. In John 4:23-24 , Jesus teaches, "But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth." Worship is a response to the recognition of Jesus' worth, acknowledging His divine nature and redemptive work.

Personal and Communal Recognition

The recognition of Jesus' worth is both a personal and communal experience. Individually, believers are called to acknowledge His lordship in their lives, as seen in Romans 10:9 : "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Communally, the Church gathers to celebrate and proclaim His worth through worship, teaching, and the sacraments.

Eternal Worth

Finally, the worth of Jesus is eternal. Hebrews 13:8 declares, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." His worth does not diminish over time but remains constant, inviting believers to continually recognize and respond to His glory and grace.