Christ Our True Prophet: A Devotional on Westminster Larger Catechism Question 43

In the breadth of Christian belief, the role of Christ as our Prophet stands out. This role guides us in understanding God's revelation and provides direction for our lives. The 43rd question of the Westminster Larger Catechism asks, "How does Christ execute the office of a prophet?" The answer reveals that "Christ executes the office of a prophet, in his revealing to the Church in all ages, by his Spirit and Word, in divers ways of administration, the whole will of God, in all things concerning their edification and salvation."

This statement leads us to Hebrews 1:1-2, which emphasizes a crucial point: "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son.” Here we see that Christ, the ultimate Prophet, unpacks God’s will and purpose for our everyday lives.

Understanding Christ's Prophetic Role

In ancient Israel, prophets served as the messengers of God, speaking truths that often challenged societal norms and reaffirmed God’s guidance for his people. Simply put, a prophet is someone who spoke God's words for him. For instance, the prophet Jeremiah confronted Israel about their disobedience, calling them back to faithfulness. Sometimes these were words of comfort, and at other times, words of judgment. The role of prophet finds its final fulfillment in Christ, who not only delivers parts of God’s message but embodies the full and perfect communication of God’s will. While many today will speak the words of God, by preaching the words of Scripture, there will never be a new revelation of God's word again until Christ returns.

Through his life, teachings, and death, Christ illustrates everything God wants to convey to humanity. As believers, we can take comfort in knowing that Jesus embodies truth itself, ensuring we have a reliable source for understanding our faith. As he says in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

The Spirit's Role in Christ’s Prophetic Ministry

Christ’s role as a prophet is carried out with the help of the Holy Spirit, who helps us understand and engage with the Scriptures. This dynamic relationship is essential because it affects how we live and grow in faith.

The catechism's phrase "divers ways of administration " includes methods such as sermons, personal prayer, and the encouragement we experience from fellow believers. Each of these plays a significant role in our spiritual nourishment. Regular meditation on the Word can enhance our understanding and draw us closer to Christ, our Prophet. When we gather together as the body of Christ, we are encouraged and called to grow even further.

The Purpose of Christ's Prophetic Ministry

So, why is Christ active as a Prophet? The catechism explains: for our "edification and salvation." These two purposes are foundational pillars of our faith.

• Edification: Christ’s messages offer essential wisdom for our lives, building us up spiritually. An example of this comes in the Sermon on the Mount. We learn that even our thoughts are sinful and must be placed in submission to Christ. We learn how to pray, depending on the Lord to carry us along the path.

  
  

• Salvation: Christ's messages reveal our need for salvation. Again, the Sermon on the Mount forces us to recognize that we fail constantly to uphold even the easiest parts of the law. We may have never murdered someone, but each of us has held hatred toward someone. Through Christ's life and teachings, we see the depth of our struggle with sin and realize the incredible lengths He went to for our reconciliation with God.

  
  

Understanding Christ as our Prophet helps us grow as his followers. The more we grasp who he is and what he has done, the more we can reflect his love and grace in our actions daily.

The Relevance of Christ’s Prophetic Voice

In today's world, filled with opinions and fleeting ideologies, Christ’s prophetic voice remains vital. Many are seeking truth amidst confusion and constant change. The challenge for many believers is discerning Christ’s voice amid the distractions. Our access to Scripture and reliance on the Holy Spirit enable us to navigate these complexities. By immersing ourselves in the Word, we learn to recognize and respond to Christ, guiding us through life’s challenges. When we focus on Christ’s prophetic voice, we gain clarity about God’s will and strengthen our relationship with Him. As Paul tells us in Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

A Call to Action

Recognizing Christ as our true Prophet is not just theoretical; it involves steps we must take in our daily lives. Here are some practical suggestions to engage with His prophetic ministry:

1. Scriptural Engagement: Allocate time each day to read and reflect on the Scriptures. This habit will transform your understanding of God's will and impact every area of your life.

   
   

2. Prayer: Ask the Lord to grant you wisdom and understanding. Continuous prayer deepens your relationship with Christ and increases your dependence upon him.

   
   

3. Community: Join the church where you can discuss and grow your understanding of Christ’s teachings. Engaging with others will increase what you learn and provide accountability.

   
   

Embracing the Role of Christ, Our True Prophet

Christ's work as a Prophet shows God's desire to reveal his will for our lives. Reflecting on Westminster Larger Catechism Question 43 reminds us that Christ continuously speaks through his Word, offering vital insights for our growth and salvation. In a world that seeks the truth, let us cling to Christ, our true Prophet, becoming messengers of his peace and hope to those around us.

Soli Deo Gloria