Topical Encyclopedia The purpose of Jesus' mission is a central theme in Christian theology, reflecting God's redemptive plan for humanity. According to the Scriptures, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was sent into the world to fulfill a divine purpose that encompasses salvation, revelation, and the establishment of God's kingdom.Salvation and Redemption The primary purpose of Jesus' mission is the salvation of humanity from sin and eternal separation from God. The Gospel of Matthew records the angel's message to Joseph, stating, "She will give birth to a Son, and you shall give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). This mission of salvation is further emphasized in the Gospel of John, where Jesus declares, "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" (John 3:16). The Apostle Paul elaborates on this purpose in his epistle to the Romans, explaining that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23), and that through Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are justified and reconciled to God. Paul writes, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Revelation of God Another significant aspect of Jesus' mission is the revelation of God's character and will. Jesus is described as the "Word" who became flesh, dwelling among humanity to reveal the Father (John 1:14). In His teachings, miracles, and interactions, Jesus embodies the nature of God, providing a perfect example of divine love, holiness, and truth. Jesus Himself states, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9), indicating that His life and ministry serve as a direct revelation of God to the world. Through His parables, sermons, and actions, Jesus communicates the values and principles of God's kingdom, inviting all to understand and embrace the divine will. Establishment of God's Kingdom The mission of Jesus also involves the inauguration of God's kingdom on earth. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus proclaims the arrival of the kingdom of God, urging repentance and faith. In Mark 1:15, Jesus announces, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe in the gospel" . Jesus' miracles and teachings demonstrate the power and presence of God's kingdom, offering glimpses of its transformative impact. He teaches His disciples to pray for the kingdom's full realization, saying, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). Fulfillment of Prophecy Jesus' mission is also seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. The prophets foretold the coming of a Savior who would redeem Israel and bring salvation to the nations. In Luke 4:17-21, Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, declaring that He is the fulfillment of the prophecy: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor" . Throughout His ministry, Jesus fulfills numerous messianic prophecies, affirming His identity as the promised Redeemer and validating the divine purpose of His mission. Conclusion The purpose of Jesus' mission is multifaceted, encompassing salvation, revelation, the establishment of God's kingdom, and the fulfillment of prophecy. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus accomplishes the divine plan, offering redemption and eternal life to all who believe. |