The epistles and the Book of Revelation offer profound and multifaceted answers to the question "Who is Jesus?" They build upon the Gospels, expanding our understanding of Jesus' identity, purpose, and ongoing role in the world. Here's how:
Epistles (Letters of Paul, Peter, John, James, Jude, and Hebrews):
* Son of God, Divine: The epistles repeatedly emphasize Jesus' divinity. They refer to him as the Son of God (Romans 1:4, Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 1:2), co-equal with the Father (Philippians 2:6), and pre-existent (Colossians 1:17). They establish that Jesus is not merely a good man or prophet, but God incarnate.
* Christ (Messiah): The epistles consistently affirm that Jesus is the promised Messiah of the Old Testament prophecies (Acts 2:36, Romans 9:5). His death and resurrection fulfilled God's plan for salvation.
* Savior and Redeemer: The epistles highlight Jesus' atoning sacrifice. He is the one who takes away the sins of the world (1 John 2:2), redeeming humanity from sin and death. Salvation is found through faith in Jesus and his sacrificial death (Romans 5:9, Galatians 3:13).
* Lord: Jesus is declared as Lord (Kyrios). This title signifies his authority and dominion over all creation (Philippians 2:11, Romans 10:9). Believers are called to submit to his Lordship in every aspect of their lives.
* High Priest: The Book of Hebrews particularly focuses on Jesus as the ultimate High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). He is the mediator between God and humanity, offering a perfect and final sacrifice for sins. He intercedes for believers before the Father.
* Head of the Church: Paul describes Jesus as the head of the Church, which is his body (Ephesians 1:22-23, Colossians 1:18). The Church is united with Christ, and believers are members of his body.
* Second Adam: Paul portrays Jesus as the "second Adam" (Romans 5:12-21, 1 Corinthians 15:45-49). While Adam brought sin and death into the world, Jesus brings righteousness and life. He reverses the curse of the fall.
* Just and Righteous: He is the one who gives us his righteousness before God (Romans 3:22).
* Coming Judge: Several epistles point to Jesus' future return as judge of the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1, 1 Peter 4:5). This emphasizes the accountability of all people before him.
Book of Revelation:
* Lamb of God: Revelation portrays Jesus as the Lamb of God who was slain (Revelation 5:6-14, 7:17). This imagery links him to the sacrificial system of the Old Testament, emphasizing his atoning sacrifice and victory over evil.
* King of Kings and Lord of Lords: Revelation declares Jesus as the ultimate ruler and authority (Revelation 17:14, 19:16). He will ultimately triumph over all earthly powers and establish his eternal kingdom.
* Alpha and Omega: Jesus identifies himself as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8, 22:13). This signifies his eternal existence and his control over all of history.
* Lion of the Tribe of Judah: He is identified as the triumphant Lion, able to break the seals and reveal God's plan for the future. (Revelation 5:5)
* Bright Morning Star: (Revelation 22:16) Suggests he is the source of light and hope.
* Worthy of Worship: The book is filled with scenes of worship directed towards Jesus (Revelation 5:8-14). This affirms his divine status and worthiness of all praise and adoration.
* Judge: Jesus is depicted as the Judge of the earth, executing justice and rewarding the faithful (Revelation 6:16-17, 20:11-15).
In Summary:
The epistles and Revelation paint a comprehensive picture of Jesus:
* He is fully God and fully man.
* He is the Messiah, the promised Savior.
* He is the atoning sacrifice for sin.
* He is the Lord, worthy of all authority and obedience.
* He is the head of the Church.
* He is the eternal King who will ultimately reign supreme.
* He is the Judge who will bring justice to the world.
* He is worthy of all worship and praise.
These texts invite readers to not only understand who Jesus *is* but also to respond to him with faith, obedience, and adoration. They call for a life lived in submission to his Lordship, anticipation of his return, and participation in his kingdom.