Reading: Jesus as Lord

Jesus as Lord: A Theological Reflection for Faith Officiating Skills

Introduction

The Christian faith is not merely about acknowledging Jesus as Savior but also about embracing Him as Lord. While salvation through Christ provides the foundation for eternal life, recognizing His lordship calls believers to a life of transformation, obedience, and service. Faith officiants play a crucial role in guiding individuals and communities to live under the lordship of Christ. This reading explores the scriptural basis for Jesus as Lord, theological insights into His sovereignty, and the practical implications for believers seeking to integrate faith into every aspect of life.

Section 3: Jesus as Lord

Scriptural Basis

The Bible affirms that accepting Jesus as Lord requires a holistic commitment to living according to His will. The following passages provide a framework for understanding and applying this truth:

• Romans 12:1-2 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
• Paul presents a call to worship that extends beyond ritual and into daily life. True devotion to Christ requires transformation, resisting worldly influences, and seeking God's will.
• Colossians 3:17 – “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
• This verse reinforces that Jesus’ lordship encompasses every aspect of life, from speech to actions, ensuring that all is done for the glory of God.

These passages challenge believers to move beyond passive faith and actively integrate their beliefs into their daily lives.

Theological Insights

Recognizing Jesus as Lord means acknowledging His supreme authority over every aspect of existence. This doctrine has profound implications for how faith is lived out practically.

1. Jesus’ Lordship Extends Beyond Personal Salvation
• Many accept Jesus as Savior but struggle to surrender to Him as Lord. However, Scripture teaches that faith is not merely about securing a place in heaven—it requires transformation in the present.
• Jesus’ authority is not limited to religious matters but extends to personal ethics, relationships, career choices, and even societal engagement.
2. Practical Lordship Involves Ethical Living, Community Service, and Personal Transformation
• Ethical Living: A life submitted to Jesus aligns with biblical values. This includes honesty, integrity, and justice in personal and professional dealings.
• Community Service: Jesus taught that loving one’s neighbor is integral to faith (Mark 12:31). Serving others, advocating for the marginalized, and engaging in acts of compassion reflect His lordship.
• Personal Transformation: Following Christ leads to spiritual maturity, evident in character development and growth in virtues such as patience, humility, and kindness.

Implications for Believers

Embracing Jesus as Lord is not a passive acknowledgment but an active commitment to holistic discipleship. This has several practical implications:

1. Integrating Faith into All Life Areas
• Faith is not just for Sunday worship but must influence work, relationships, and even leisure.
• Every decision, from financial stewardship to family life, should reflect Christ’s authority.
2. Promoting Holistic Discipleship
• Holistic discipleship means aligning thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes with Christ’s teachings.
• This requires continual growth through prayer, Scripture study, and fellowship with other believers.
3. A Call to Obedience and Mission
• Jesus’ lordship calls believers to obedience, even when it is challenging or countercultural.
• It also compels them to live missionally, sharing the Gospel through words and actions.

Conclusion

Recognizing Jesus as Lord is essential for a fully realized Christian faith. It is not enough to acknowledge His role as Savior; believers must also submit to His authority in every aspect of life. Faith officiants have a responsibility to guide others in embracing holistic discipleship, ensuring that their faith is not compartmentalized but fully integrated into daily living. True worship is found in a transformed life that glorifies Christ in all things.

Recommended Reading

• Willard, Dallas. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God. HarperOne, 1998.

This theological reflection equips faith officiants to teach and model what it means to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to pursue lives of transformation, service, and obedience.