Jesus Christ, Son of God and Lord (CCC 422-455)

The One Minute Catechism: Jesus Christ, Son of God and Lord (CCC 422-455)

In the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds, we Catholics profess our belief in Jesus “Christ” as God’s “only Son” and “our Lord.” Each of these titles has a deep meaning. In Hebrew, “Jesus” means “God saves.” The name Jesus signifies that the very name of God is present in the person of His Son, who was made man to save us all from our sins. The word “Christ” is from the Greek translation of the Hebrew word “Messiah,” which means “anointed.” God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and with divine power. Jesus is the one whose coming God promised to the people of Israel in the Old Testament. The title “Son of God” signifies the unique and eternal relationship of Jesus Christ to God His Father. Jesus is the only Son of the Father and God Himself. The acceptance that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He is God Himself is the very heart of Christian belief. Finally, the title “Lord” comes from the word “Kryrios,” which is the Greek translation of the inexpressible Hebrew name “YHWH” (pronounced “Yah-weh”). YHWH is, of course, the name God Himself revealed to Moses. However, as a sign of extreme respect, devout Jews would not use this name. Instead, throughout the Old Testament, God the Father is called “Lord.” By calling Jesus “Lord,” we are recognizing Him as God. Moreover, by recognizing Jesus Christ’s lordship over the world and human history, we are accepting that we should never submit ourselves in an absolute manner to any earthly power, but only to God our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ. To invite others to our Christian faith, we must first proclaim the truth that Jesus is Christ, Son of God, and Lord. We must seek to understand the deepest meaning of Christ’s actions and words and strive to live in imitation of Him. From this loving knowledge of Christ, will spring the desire to proclaim Him — to evangelize — and to lead others to the “yes” of faith in Jesus Christ.

Reflect: Would I have the courage to tell a friend at work that I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, our Lord and Savior? Would that friend be surprised to learn that I believed this?

Pray: O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of Your presence, Your love, and Your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to You, we shall see Your hand, Your purpose, Your will through all things. — St. Ignatius of Loyola