The Lordship of Christ: Part 2

A Deeper Examination of Scriptural Foundations

The concept of the Lordship of Jesus Christ stands at the heart of Christian theology and discipleship. Referring to Jesus as “Lord” means acknowledging his supreme authority. It recognizes his divine sovereignty and his rightful position as head over all creation. The Bible is rich in passages that expound upon this truth. It calls believers to confess. It encourages them to yield and live under the banner of his Lordship. In this exploration of the Lordship of Christ, we delve deeper. We examine key scriptural texts that illuminate the breadth of his authority. These texts also reveal the depth of his authority.

Philippians 2:9-11: The Universal Acknowledgment of Christ’s Lordship

Philippians 2:9-11 is one of the most profound declarations of Christ’s exaltation in Scripture. The Apostle Paul writes: “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

This passage reveals the cosmic scope of Christ’s Lordship. His exaltation is not limited to a particular group or place. It spans heaven, earth, and even the realm of the dead. The imagery of every knee bowing and every tongue confessing conveys a universal submission to Christ’s authority. This acknowledgment is not merely an act of reverence. It is a declaration of reality. Jesus is Lord, and all creation is called to recognize it.

Furthermore, this passage connects the Lordship of Christ with the glory of God the Father. In submitting to Christ as Lord, believers bring glory to God, showcasing the unity and harmony within the Trinity. The Lordship of Christ is not only about authority but also about the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

Romans 10:9: The Lordship of Christ in Salvation

Romans 10:9 states: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” This verse highlights the pivotal role of acknowledging Jesus as Lord in the process of salvation. Confession here is not a mere verbal statement. It is a heartfelt declaration of allegiance to Jesus as the supreme ruler of one’s life. Salvation, according to Paul, is rooted in both belief and confession. It is a faith that acknowledges Christ’s resurrection power. It is also a proclamation that affirms his Lordship.

By linking confession of Jesus as Lord with salvation, this verse underscores the intimate connection between faith and submission. To confess Jesus as Lord is to surrender one’s autonomy and to live under his rule. It is a life-changing act that reorients the believer’s life around Christ’s authority and purpose.

1 Corinthians 8:6: The Unique Position of Christ

The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 8:6:

“Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.”

This verse highlights the distinct roles of God the Father and Jesus Christ. It also affirms their unity in the divine purpose. It acknowledges God as the ultimate source of all creation. Christ is the means through which creation was brought into existence. Jesus is not merely a figure of authority. He is the very channel of life and existence. His Lordship is unique and unparalleled.

For believers, this recognition shapes their identity and purpose. To live “through” Christ is to embrace a life that is wholly dependent on and directed by him. This passage invites Christians to see Jesus not only as their Lord. He is also their sustainer and enabler in all things.

Matthew 28:18: The Authority of the Risen Lord

In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares:

*”All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”*

This statement, made after his resurrection, is a powerful affirmation of Christ’s comprehensive authority. It establishes Jesus as the sovereign ruler over all realms—spiritual and physical. This authority is not self-proclaimed. It is granted by the Father. This signifies the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry and his victory over sin and death.

The context of this verse, often referred to as the Great Commission, highlights the practical implications of Christ’s authority. As the risen Lord, Jesus commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. His Lordship becomes the foundation for their mission, assuring them that his authority extends over every sphere they will face.

Ephesians 1:20-23: Christ’s Exaltation and Headship

Ephesians 1:20-23 provides a majestic description of Christ’s exalted position:

“He exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

This passage emphasizes the supremacy of Christ over all powers and authorities, both current and future. His exaltation is not limited to a position of honor; it is a position of active rule. God has placed all things under Christ’s feet, signifying his dominion over every aspect of creation.

Importantly, this passage also highlights Christ’s relationship with the church. As the head of the church, Jesus governs and nourishes his body, guiding it toward fulfillment in him. The church, as his body, becomes the tangible representation of his Lordship on earth. It is called to reflect his character and authority in the world.

Implications of Christ’s Lordship

The Lordship of Christ carries profound implications for believers:

·      Submission: Recognizing Jesus as Lord calls for a life of obedience and surrender to his will.

·      Mission: His authority compels believers to participate in his mission to make disciples of all nations.

·      Hope: His exaltation assures believers of the ultimate victory of his kingdom over all opposition.

·      Unity: Acknowledging Christ as Lord fosters unity within the church, as all members submit to the same head.

Conclusion

The Lordship of Jesus Christ is a central theme of the Christian faith. It affirms his authority, exaltation, and role in God’s redemptive plan. The passages explored in this study are found in Philippians 2:9-11, Romans 10:9, and 1 Corinthians 8:6. They also include Matthew 28:18 and Ephesians 1:20-23. These passages offer a multifaceted view of what it means for Jesus to be Lord. They call believers to live lives marked by confession, submission, and active participation in the mission of Christ. When we acknowledge his Lordship, we align ourselves with the divine purpose. We glorify the God who raised him to the highest place.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing. By the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.

Blessings, 

Minister A. Francine Green