The Uniqueness and Universality of Christ (Part 2)

Today’s reading is Section 3 of the Lausanne Covenant - The Uniqueness and Universality of Christ. Read Here.

Jesus Christ, being himself the only God-Man, who gave himself as the only ransom for sinners, is the only mediator between God and people. There is no other name by which we must be saved. All men and women are perishing because of sin, but God loves everyone, not wishing that any should perish but that all should repent. Yet those who reject Christ repudiate the joy of salvation and condemn themselves to eternal separation from God.

The Uniqueness of Christ: He is the Only Saviour

The statement ‘there is only one Saviour’ is rooted in 1 Timothy 2:5-6: ‘there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all.’ Here Jesus is called ‘mediator,’ ‘man,’ and ‘ransom.’ The word ‘man’ points to his birth from a human mother, while ‘ransom’ refers to his death on the cross, bearing the penalty we deserved. Theologically, these speak of his incarnation and his atonement—both utterly unique, with no parallel in other religions. Precisely because Jesus is the only God-Man and the only ransom for sinners, he alone can be the mediator between God and humanity. Peter affirms the same truth: ‘There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given by which we must be saved’ (Acts 4:12).

We urgently need rescue from sin’s guilt and God’s judgment. ‘Perishing’ is a terrible word, yet Jesus used it (Matthew 18:14; Luke 13:3, 5; John 3:15-16), as did the apostles (eg 1 Corinthians 1:18). This is the reality for everyone unless they are saved by Christ. Yet God loves all and is patient, ‘not wishing that any should perish’ (2 Peter 3:9; see also Ezekiel 18:32). Still, some will refuse to repent and believe, rejecting Christ and condemning themselves to eternal separation from God (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)—a reality we should speak of only with deep sadness.

Scripture teaches both God’s sovereignty in salvation and human responsibility. However paradoxical it seems, those who are saved must give all credit to God, while those who are lost must accept all blame.

Reflection:

How does Christ’s unique role as mediator and Saviour shape your worship and your witness?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, I worship you as the only Saviour. Give me boldness to proclaim your name to all people.