The Importance of the Mediator Being Man: Embracing Our Adoption and Boldness in Christ

For Christians, understanding the role of a mediator is crucial. Last week, I discussed the importance of our mediator being fully divine. This week I will discuss the importance of our mediator being fully man. The 39th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism asks: “Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be man?” The response is significant: “It was requisite that the Mediator should be man, that he might advance our nature, perform obedience to the law, suffer and make intercession for us in our nature, have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities; that we might receive the adoption of sons, and have comfort and access with boldness unto the throne of grace.” What does all this mean?

Understanding the Nature of the Mediator

Christ's role as Mediator is not only about function; it is about the essence of humanity itself. For Jesus to effectively pay the demands of justice for us, he had to be both fully God and fully man.

Hebrews 2:14-15 illustrates the importance of His humanity: "Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery." This isn't just theology; it offers transformative power in our lives.

Jesus knew hunger, fatigue, and pain. For example, in Matthew 4:2, he fasted for 40 days, experiencing extreme hunger. The Westminster Catechism highlights that the Mediator must have “a fellow-feeling of our infirmities,” which speaks to the importance of community and connection during life's struggles. Hebrews 4:15-16 assures us: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence, draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

The phrase “access with boldness” is crucial for Christians. The requirement for the Mediator to be man allows us this incredible access. In our darkest moments, we can confidently approach God. This assurance is built on his humanity, which fosters a genuine connection with God. If we understand this, then we can courageously approach the throne of grace, knowing Christ sympathizes with us. Christ knows the trials we face because he faced them himself. In fact, he faced more than we ever could. He knows our weaknesses and calls us to rest in his strength.

Adoption as Sons: A Transformative Gift

Through Christ’s mediatorial role, we encounter the profound doctrine of adoption. Galatians 4:4-5 tells us, "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons."

These verses highlight our identity in Christ. We are children of God. The impact of being adopted into God's family is substantial. This adoption grants us the privilege to call Him Father, encouraging us to live boldly through faith. John also tells us this in his prologue. He writes, "But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God." (John 1:12-13) If we are in Christ, we are new creations, adopted into the family of God.

The Implications of a Human Mediator

Recognizing Christ’s humanity brings several implications for our daily lives. First, it promotes grace and humility. Knowing that Christ sympathizes with our weaknesses should soften our hearts towards others. Additionally, His mediatorial role encourages radical transparency with God. We don’t need to hide our failings or act like we are less sinful than we are. Instead, we can openly share our fears and failures, understanding we have a Savior who comprehends our struggles completely.

Living in Light of Our Adoption

Understanding our identity in Christ can transform our interactions. As adopted children, we become ambassadors of grace. Each interaction is an opportunity to share the love we receive, demonstrating kindness and understanding. In a chaotic world, embodying our faith principles provides clarity and hope. By living grace-filled lives, we share not just our experiences but also the incredible story of our Savior, who relates to every human experience.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the necessity of the Mediator being man reveals the grace woven into the fabric of our faith. Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, comforts us by connecting with our weaknesses and advancing our nature. Embracing our identities as children of God empowers us to approach the throne of grace with confidence. We can express our needs and concerns freely. This is the essence of the Gospel. That through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, we are made new. In Christ, we find not just our identity but also our mission. As we reflect on His work, let us carry the message of grace among ourselves, nurturing a community of love grounded in our shared divine adoption.

As we navigate life, may we remain rooted in our identity in Christ, embracing the joy of adoption and living with boldness under his grace. Let's continue in faith, confident that our Mediator stands by us, ready to guide and strengthen us daily.

Soli Deo Gloria