The centrality of Christ in Scripture is a foundational theme that permeates the entire biblical narrative, from Genesis to Revelation. This theme underscores the belief that Jesus Christ is the focal point of God's redemptive plan and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, types, and shadows. The New Testament further reveals Christ as the incarnate Word, the Savior, and the ultimate revelation of God's character and purpose.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The Old Testament is replete with types and shadows that point to Christ. In Genesis 3:15, often referred to as the Protoevangelium, God promises a future seed of the woman who will crush the serpent's head, a prophecy fulfilled in Christ's victory over sin and death. The sacrificial system established in the Mosaic Law, particularly the Passover lamb, prefigures Christ as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29).

The prophetic writings also anticipate the coming Messiah. Isaiah 53 vividly describes the Suffering Servant, whose vicarious suffering and atoning death align with the passion of Christ. Micah 5:2 predicts the birthplace of the Messiah in Bethlehem, fulfilled in the birth of Jesus. The Psalms, too, contain messianic prophecies, such as Psalm 22, which foreshadows the crucifixion.

Christ in the Gospels

The Gospels present Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God's redemptive plan. Matthew's Gospel, in particular, emphasizes Jesus as the promised Messiah, frequently citing Old Testament prophecies to demonstrate their fulfillment in Christ. In Matthew 5:17, Jesus declares, "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 Gospel of John presents Jesus as the eternal Word made flesh (John 1:14), emphasizing His divine nature and preexistence. John 14:6 records Jesus' declaration, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" , underscoring His exclusive role in salvation.

Christ in the Epistles

The epistles further elucidate the centrality of Christ in God's redemptive plan. The Apostle Paul, in Colossians 1:15-20, presents a high Christology, describing Jesus as the "image of the invisible God" and the one in whom "all things hold together" . Paul emphasizes that Christ is the head of the church and the firstborn from the dead, highlighting His preeminence in all things.

In Hebrews, the author presents Christ as the superior High Priest and the mediator of a new covenant, surpassing the old covenant's sacrificial system. Hebrews 1:3 states, "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word" .

Christ in Revelation

The book of Revelation culminates the biblical narrative with a vision of Christ's ultimate victory and reign. Revelation 1:8 declares, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come—the Almighty" , affirming Christ's eternal nature and sovereign authority. Revelation 19:11-16 depicts Christ as the conquering King, returning to judge and establish His eternal kingdom.

Throughout Scripture, the centrality of Christ is evident in His role as Creator, Redeemer, and King. The entire biblical narrative points to Him as the fulfillment of God's promises and the ultimate revelation of His love and grace.