Christology and Soteriology in Christian Theology (04/28/'24) -Viewpoint

Christology and Soteriology in Christian Theology The questions on profound theological themes within Christianity, particularly related to the Incarnation, the role of Christ as the Messiah and Mediator, and the theological concept of the "Image of God" explore: Why did the human Jesus have to become the Messiah? The Christian understanding is that Jesus became the Messiah to fulfill Old Testament prophecies and to offer salvation to humanity. The role of the Messiah as a savior and redeemer is central to Christian theology. Jesus, as the Messiah, is seen as fulfilling the law and the prophets of the Old Testament, bridging the gap between God and humanity, and restoring the relationship that was marred by sin. Why did Christ become Man in order to fulfill as the Mediator? In Christian theology, Christ needed to become human to act as a mediator between God and mankind. The concept of mediation involves reconciling two parties, and in the case of Christ, it involves reconciling a holy God with sinful humanity. By assuming human nature, Christ could represent humanity before God, offering a perfect sacrifice for sin, which is an essential aspect of Christian soteriology (the study of salvation). Would Christ have also become a man if Adam had not sinned? This is a speculative theological question that has been debated among theologians. The traditional view, based on Scripture, primarily focuses on Christ's incarnation as a response to sin. However, some theologians, such as Duns Scotus, have argued for the "absolute primacy of Christ," suggesting that the Incarnation would have occurred regardless of Adam's sin because God desired to unite human nature to the divine in the person of Christ from all eternity. This view, however, is not universally held. What is the original motivation behind the concept of Image of God? The concept of the "Image of God" (Imago Dei) in Christian theology primarily originates from Genesis 1:26-27, where humans are created in the image and likeness of God. This denotes that humans reflect certain attributes of God, such as rationality, morality, and the ability to relate to others and to God Himself. It emphasizes the dignity and worth of human beings and their unique role in God's creation. Was it because of human sin that the image of God had no choice but to be humanized through Jesus? The incarnation of Jesus is often viewed as a divine response to the distortion of the Image of God caused by sin. Through Christ's life, death, and resurrection, He restores and perfects what it means to be made in God's image. Christ's humanity serves as the ultimate example of what it means to live a life fully pleasing to God and fully realized as a human being. These concepts are central to Christian theology and help to explain the profound significance of Jesus Christ's role in salvation history according to Christian beliefs. Pastor Steven G. Lee (April 28, 2024)