The area of systematic theology known as “Christology” focuses on analyzing the life and teachings of Jesus. What makes Christology significant? Here are four of them.
1) Because all the Scriptures bear witness to Christ
All of the biblical stories revolve around one [primary character]—Jesus Christ—in [the Scriptures]. His arrival is foretold in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New. Moreover, Jesus authoritatively declared that the Scriptures testify about Him. Consequently, having a thorough understanding of the life and teachings of Christ will enable us to make sense of the Bible and help us to become more like Him. (Read: John 5:39; Luke 24:27; 24:44)
2) Because the church has given it great importance
The doctrine of Christ has always been vital to [the church]. We find sound teaching on the divinity of Jesus in the Gospel of John. The theology surrounding the person of Christ has greatly developed during church councils, such as the First Council of Nicea and the Council of Chalcedon. Additionally, there was a strong interest in Christ’s activity during the Protestant Reformation, which gave rise to the slogan “Solus Christus.” Thus, knowing how the church developed its Christology in the past will benefit us now and in the future. Refer to John 1:1–18 and 20:30–31.
3) Because the enemies of Christianity attack it
In reaction to the heresy that denied that Jesus is the Christ, John composed the fourth Gospel. Similar to this, heresies that were starting to emerge around the person of Christ—Arianism, Apollinarism, Nestorism, Euthychianism, etc.—were addressed by the councils of Nicea, Chalcedon, and other places, as well as the creeds of Nicene, Athanasius, and Apostolic. Consequently, being aware of these heresies and the argument offered will enable us to stand up for our beliefs. (Read: John 20:30–31; 1 John 2:22).
4) Because our salvation is in Christ
The entirety of salvation is centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ, thus understanding the depths of His divine and human natures as well as the significance of His atoning sacrifice on the cross at Calvary and its effects on sinners and the wider world are vital. Christ’s life and deeds include wisdom, if we seek it out. (Read 1 John 5:1, 1 Corinthians 1:24, John 3:18 and 14:6)
Christ is the Bible’s fulfillment of its prophecies, the leader and catalyst for the Church’s change, and the Author and Finisher of our faith. God’s wisdom and strength are found in Christ! (1 Corinthians 1:24)
