The Sending of Jesus is a central theme in Christian theology, encapsulating the mission and purpose of Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world. This event is rooted in the divine plan of redemption, as foretold by the prophets and fulfilled in the New Testament. The sending of Jesus is a testament to God's love and grace, providing a means for humanity's reconciliation with Him.

Old Testament Foreshadowing

The anticipation of a Messiah is woven throughout the Old Testament. Prophecies such as Isaiah 7:14, which speaks of a virgin bearing a son named Immanuel, and Isaiah 9:6, which describes a child born to us who will be called "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace," set the stage for the coming of Jesus. These prophecies highlight the divine nature and mission of the Messiah, who would bring salvation to God's people.

The Incarnation

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of these prophecies through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. In John 1:14 , it is written, "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." This verse underscores the miraculous event of God taking on human form to dwell among His creation.

The Purpose of His Sending

The purpose of Jesus' sending is multifaceted, encompassing salvation, revelation, and the establishment of God's kingdom. In John 3:16-17 , the mission is clearly articulated: "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. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him." This passage highlights the salvific intent of Jesus' mission, emphasizing God's love and the offer of eternal life through faith in Christ.

Jesus' Own Testimony

Jesus Himself spoke of His divine mission. In Luke 4:18-19 , Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah in the synagogue, declaring, "The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." This declaration affirms His role as the anointed one, sent to bring spiritual and physical liberation.

The Apostolic Witness

The apostles also bear witness to the sending of Jesus. In Galatians 4:4-5 , Paul writes, "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons." This passage emphasizes the timing and purpose of Jesus' coming, highlighting the redemption and adoption offered to believers.

The Sending of the Son and the Trinity

The sending of Jesus is intrinsically linked to the doctrine of the Trinity. The Father sends the Son, and the Son, in obedience, accomplishes the work of salvation. In John 20:21 , Jesus says to His disciples, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so also I am sending you." This reflects the unity and distinct roles within the Godhead, as well as the continuation of Jesus' mission through His followers.

Conclusion

The Sending of Jesus is a profound demonstration of God's love and redemptive plan for humanity. It is a cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming the belief in Jesus as the divine Savior who came to reconcile the world to God. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfills the promises of the Old Testament and inaugurates the new covenant, offering salvation to all who believe.