The title "Author and Finisher of Our Faith" is a profound designation for Jesus Christ, encapsulating His role in the inception, sustenance, and consummation of the Christian faith. This title is derived from the Epistle to the Hebrews, specifically Hebrews 12:2, which states: "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" .

Author of Our Faith

The term "author" in this context is translated from the Greek word "archēgos," which can also mean "pioneer" or "leader." It signifies that Jesus is the originator or initiator of faith. As the divine Logos, He is the source of all creation and the one through whom all things were made (John 1:3). In the realm of faith, He is the one who initiates the believer's journey by His redemptive work on the cross and His resurrection, which provides the foundation for faith. Jesus' life, teachings, and sacrificial death are the basis upon which Christian faith is built, making Him the ultimate example and leader in the life of faith.

Finisher of Our Faith

The term "finisher" is translated from the Greek word "teleiōtēs," meaning "perfecter" or "completer." This indicates that Jesus not only initiates faith but also brings it to completion. He is actively involved in the believer's spiritual growth and sanctification, ensuring that the work He began in them will be brought to completion (Philippians 1:6). As the finisher, Jesus is the one who perfects and matures the believer's faith, guiding them through trials and tribulations, and ultimately leading them to eternal glory.

The Joy Set Before Him

The phrase "for the joy set before Him" highlights the motivation behind Christ's endurance of the cross. This joy refers to the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, the salvation of believers, and the restoration of creation. Jesus' willingness to endure suffering and shame underscores His commitment to the divine purpose and His love for humanity. His exaltation, as He sits at the right hand of the throne of God, signifies the completion of His earthly mission and His ongoing intercessory role for believers.

Implications for Believers

For Christians, recognizing Jesus as the "Author and Finisher of Our Faith" is both a comfort and a call to perseverance. It assures believers that their faith journey is under the sovereign guidance of Christ, who has already secured their ultimate victory. This title encourages believers to remain steadfast, fixing their eyes on Jesus as the ultimate example and source of strength. It also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, initiated and perfected by Christ, leading to a life of holiness and eternal communion with God.Hebrews 12:2
Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Christ a Complete Saviour:
... are his, and that by the best of titles: 'Thine they ... has said already, 'I will not
take up their names into my ... Then, hence, I infer that Christ is not only the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/christ a complete saviour .htm

The Saints' Privilege and Profit;
... as on Aaron's breast-plate was fixed the names of the ... those that had suffered much
for Christ in the ... Thus you see what terms, characters, titles, and privileges ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the saints privilege and profit.htm

Solomon's Temple Spiritualized
... the porch of the temple, and they had names given them ... What now are all other titles
of grandeur and greatness ... Christ did raise them eighteen cubits high; not in ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/solomons temple spiritualized.htm

The Doctrine
... humble dependence upon Divine mercy which the author felt is ... These are several titles
which are set over the ... proved.2. The new covenant made with Christ.3. The ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the doctrine.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... the king's children; if you be risen with Christ, set your ... cannot; nor is there any
man in our country that ... moreover, "Now the just shall live by faith: but if ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.org

What is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.org

Is God male or female? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus