Thursday, January 11, 2024

THE Long-Awaited Messiah is our Prophet, Priest, and King! John 20:30-31 and Selected Scripture (pt. 1)

1) What is a Messiah? Why does John identify Jesus as THE Christ? 

John does not say Jesus is simply “a” Christ. The New Testament proves that Jesus is "the Anointed One, the Son of God."

In the Old Testament prophets, priests, and kings were all consecrated to God for special service.   

Prophets, priests, and kings are called “anointed” ones.  (Note Exodus 28:1, 41; 30:31-33. 1 Sam. 13; 19:21;  2 Chron. 26.  Psalm 105:15; 1 Chron. 16:22)


2) What crucial roles did these “anointed” ones play?

A) Godly prophets revealed the divine will and holy purposes of Yahweh.

B) Godly priests brought people into Yahweh’s holy presence for worship and service.

C) Godly kings rules over God’s people on Yahweh’s behalf.


3) Why were “messiah figures” even needed? 

A) Godly prophets were necessary because post-fall man is spiritually lost and spiritually ignorant.

B) Godly priests were necessary because post-fall man is sinful and unclean and thus alienated from Holy God.  

C) Godly kings were necessary because post-fall humanity is like a wild bronco that desperately needs to be reigned in.


4) What does all this have to do with Jesus Christ and with us (personally)?  John 1:41; 20:31.

A) As the Prophet par excellence- Messiah Jesus is the perfect revelation of God.

B) As the Great High Priest- Messiah Jesus offers a perfect, once for all sacrifice.  Through Him we can draw near to serve and worship Yahweh.

 C) As the conquering King- Messiah Jesus subdues rebellious hearts and reigns over His people as Lord!

The Divine Christ is our Prophet, Priest, and King! Said differently, Messiah Jesus is Lord and Savior of all who truly believe in Him. 

The Old Testament predicts and anticipates a coming Messianic-Savior!  While the New Testament announces He came for us and that He's coming again.  One of my favorite songs that underscores this glorious theme is "Come For Us." 

All sinners need not just a messiah but THE Messiah, Jesus Christ (John 1:41; 3:16; 14:6; 20:30-31 Acts 4:12) !  The King of the Jews is the Savior (Light) of the world.  Let every heart enthrone Him and crown Him Lord of all!

Every incentive and motivation we need to live obediently as Christians is found in the Person and Work of Christ!  The book of Colossians underscores this glorious truth.  The Gospel of John compels us to live Christ-centered lives.

This sermon series on Messiah Jesus should heighten our worship, fortify our faith, and strength our witness to the glory of God.