The Divine Mediator: Exploring the 38th Question of the Westminster Larger Catechism

The divine nature of Christ is one of the foundational elements of our faith as Christians. It was at the heart of the Arian controversy that led to the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. It is an essential truth that we must get right. Question 38 of the Westminster Larger Catechism helps us to understand why the divinity of Christ is essential for our understanding of Christ's mediatorial work. It asks, “Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God?” Put another way, the question asks why it is so important that our mediator must be God. The answer highlights the vital role of Christ as both fully God and fully human. In this post, we will unpack the implications of this question and answer.

The Necessity of a Divine Mediator

The catechism asserts, "It was requisite that the Mediator should be God, that he might sustain and keep the human nature from sinking under the infinite wrath of God, and the power of death; give worth and efficacy to his sufferings, obedience and intercession; and to satisfy God’s justice, procure his favor, purchase a peculiar people, give his Spirit to them, conquer all their enemies, and bring them to everlasting salvation." The sin brought into the world by Adam unleashed God's infinite wrath and introduced death, forces too powerful for any mere human to overcome. Romans 3:24-26 articulates this by saying that we are "justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." This passage clarifies that God’s righteousness cannot simply ignore sin; it requires satisfaction. Christ is both just and the justifier. Humanity alone is not capable of providing the required satisfaction. From conception, we are tainted by the stain of sin. Only Jesus, as the God-man, could bridge the gap created by sin and bring us back into a right relationship with God.

The Effectiveness of the Mediatorship

The catechism highlights that the divine nature of the Mediator bestows worth, power, and effectiveness to His suffering, obedience, and intercession. Christ's sacrificial death was not simply an act of kindness; it was a divine intervention that met the strict requirements of justice. Hebrews 9:14 states, "how much more will the blood of Christ…purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God?" The blood of Christ, being of divine quality, accomplishes something profound: it transforms the believer’s heart and mind. It washes us white as snow. Through its power, the whole of the sinner is made a new creation in Christ. Christ’s sacrifice does not merely remove sin; it empowers Christians to actively serve God. Every aspect of Christ's mediating work is infused with divine authority, making it possible to effect genuine change in the lives of His followers.

The Purchase of a Peculiar People

The catechism asserts that the divine Mediator's mission was to “satisfy God’s justice, procure His favor, purchase a peculiar people… and bring them to everlasting salvation.” This statement underscores Christ's committed role in connecting God and humanity.

Through His divine nature, Jesus not only redeems people for Himself but also grants them the Holy Spirit. This marks our identity as His people—chosen and set apart for His glory. When we understand Christ as the divine Mediator, we gain clarity about our value and purpose in life. As exemplified by the early Christians, who numbered around 120 at Pentecost and grew to over 3,000 in a single day, Christ's power in us transforms community life, showcasing how Christ's work actively shapes a new identity among believers.

Conquering All Their Enemies

The catechism also states that Christ, the divine Mediator, conquers all enemies. We are told in Ephesians 6:12 that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but "The cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." The spiritual warfare we encounter goes beyond physical struggles, with sin, death, and evil forces opposing believers. Romans 3 reinforces the idea that our justification and growth in holiness, our ability to fight, rely on Christ's effective sacrifice.

It is critical to recognize that our victories in faith do not come from anything within us but through the finished work of Christ on the cross. We overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11).

The Assurance of Everlasting Salvation

Lastly, the catechism speaks of the divine Mediator’s ability to bring us everlasting salvation. This ultimate act encapsulates Christ's mission—a promise that finds its root in Him alone. This assurance is crucial, especially in uncertain times.

Christ is a steadfast anchor, affirming that nothing can separate us from His love. Romans 8:38-39 tells us, "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." What a joyous truth. If we are in Christ, we are held by his power. His mediatory work not only secures our standing before God but also empowers us to serve Him joyfully.

Final Thoughts

The 38th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism invites us to reflect on the profound necessity and power of Christ as our divine Mediator. It provides important insights that shape our understanding of salvation. The union of Christ's divine and human natures is not just a topic for theological discussion; it is the foundation upon which our faith rests.

As we walk through life, let us continually draw strength from Christ. He is our divine Mediator, inviting us into a grace-filled relationship and transforming us for His own glorious purpose. In Him, we find not only a Savior but a comprehensive example of divine love, redemption, and the promise of eternal security.

Soli Deo Gloria