Love: A New Commandment - a Journey in PhilippiansSample

Christ-ian?

The word “Christ” has become like another name for Jesus. But many Christians have never thought about the meaning of this word. To some, it even comes as a surprise that it is a title. The Greek word for “Christ” means the same as the Hebrew word for “Messiah”. These words and what they mean come from the Old Testament and that’s where we turn to now:

Psalm 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and his anointed …

The Greek word for “anointed” is “Christ” and the Hebrew is “Messiah”. But what does that mean? Let’s continue…

Psalm 2:5-7

Then He will speak to them … saying: “I have set my king on Zion, my holy hill.” I will tell of the decree of the Lord: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have begotten you."

God said his anointed King is his son. Psalm 2 is quoted in various places in the New Testament to talk about Jesus. So, every time you see the word “Christ”, remember it’s a royal title for God’s anointed King. For example, out of today’s reading the sentence could be, “The King will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death.” One translation puts it like this: “The king is going to gain a great reputation through my body, whether in life or in death.” (Kingdom New Testament: NT Wright)

These words of Paul are often quoted to talk about dying and where you go when you die. But the focus here, as with everything in the Christian faith, is not on dying but on living. What a wonderful invitation and partnership: to live for King Jesus’ reputation in our world! When you live for the reputation of King Jesus, you find a purpose that no one can take away from you. You also find a strength inside of you, the Spirit of the King Himself.

Reflection Question

What is the reputation of King Jesus in my world?

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you love me and gave yourself for me on the cross. Thank you for your Spirit working in me. With your strength, I will live for your reputation to grow in my world. Amen.