Why 'Christ'? Unpacking the Anointed Office of Our Savior

In exploring the foundations of Christian faith, one can't overlook the significance of the title "Christ." It is a title and not a name. Jesus is THE Christ. The 42nd question of the Westminster Larger Catechism asks, "Why was our mediator called Christ?" The answer is profound: "Our mediator was called Christ, because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure; and so set apart, and fully furnished with all authority and ability, to execute the offices of prophet, priest, and king of his Church, in the estate both of his humiliation and exaltation."

Understanding the Title 'Christ'

The title Christ reflects Jesus' divine mission and authority. This title comes from the Greek word Christos, meaning the Anointed One. It is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Messiah. In the Old Testament, more than one person is labeled a messiah. David, for example, in Psalm 18:50, is called the Lord's anointed. But THE anointed is different from AN anointed. The distinction is centered on what the person is anointed to do. For Jesus, it signifies that he was chosen for a specific purpose. He is anointed as our savior through his roles of prophet, priest, and King.

In the Old Testament, anointing was a ritual that granted authority and responsibility to leaders. Looking again at David, he was anointed as king by the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13), and Aaron was consecrated as priest through an anointing ceremony (Leviticus 8:12). The roles that David and Aaron fulfill, king and prophet, point to something greater. Thus, when we refer to Jesus as the Christ, we acknowledge His complete fulfillment of these significant roles.

The Anointing by the Holy Ghost

The catechism emphasizes that Jesus was "anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure." It indicates that his anointing was unique and equipped him for his work. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus preached the Gospel, healed the sick, and performed miraculous signs, affirming His identity as the Messiah. In the Old Testament, people were anointed with oil to symbolize the Holy Spirit. Jesus was not anointed with oil but with the Holy Spirit himself at his baptism.

An example of what Jesus was anointed to do is in Luke 4:18-19, where Jesus reads from the scroll of Isaiah, claiming that He was anointed "to proclaim good news to the poor." This moment marked the start of His public ministry and showcased His mission. It is important to note that when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus at his baptism, we see a manifestation of what already exists. To quote a commentary on the catechism, "Now, we say ‘manifested’ because we must bear in mind carefully that it was not only at that moment that the Holy Spirit anointed our Saviour. The Lord Jesus Christ is the God-Man, and as such, He is constantly in perfect union with Father and the Holy Spirit."

The Offices of Prophet, Priest, and King

If we are going to understand what it means that Jesus is the Christ, we need to look at the offices that he fulfilled.

The Prophet

As a prophet, Jesus was the ultimate messenger of God. We see this explicitly in Hebrews 1:1–2, "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world." Another example is the Sermon on the Mount, where He delivered teachings emphasizing love, mercy, and righteousness (Matthew 5-7). By fulfilling this role, Jesus not only predicted events but revealed God's heart and plans for humanity.

The Priest

In His priestly role, Jesus serves as our mediator, bridging the gap between humanity and God. Unlike the Levitical priests who repeatedly offered sacrifices, Jesus offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice (Hebrews 10:14). His death and resurrection provide believers direct access to God, making the old sacrificial system unnecessary.

The King

As King, Jesus reigns with authority. His kingdom transcends worldly boundaries and expectations. For example, in John 18:36, He declares, "My kingdom is not of this world." This kingship assures believers that He is sovereign and in control even during hardship. His kingship not being of this world does not mean that his kingship does not apply to this world. He has all authority in heaven and earth. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Embracing Christ our Savior

The title Christ reveals the profound truth of Jesus' identity and mission. Anointed with the Holy Spirit, He fulfills the roles of prophet, priest, and king. Understanding who Jesus is enhances our appreciation for his sacrifice and triumph.

Meditating on the Westminster Larger Catechism draws us to a deeper relationship with Christ, our Savior. Recognizing Jesus as our anointed mediator will strengthen our faith, encouraging us to hold fast to the hope found in Him. He remains our guiding light in every situation, ready to lead us in grace and truth. May we embrace Christ's title not merely as a label but as a reminder of the incredible truth of his anointed office and its transformative power in our lives today.

Soli Deo Gloria