MESSIAH
Definition
“The Anointed One,” “God’s Chosen King and Deliverer”
Messiah is one of the most central and hope-filled titles in Judaism and Christianity.
It expresses the idea of a divinely appointed Savior-King, chosen, anointed, and empowered by God to bring salvation, justice, and the fullness of God’s kingdom.
In Hebrew the word is מָשִׁיחַ (Mashiach) meaning:
• Anointed One
• Chosen One
• Consecrated King
• God’s appointed deliverer
In Greek, the equivalent term is Χριστός (Christos) — “Christ,” meaning the same thing.
Thus, Jesus Christ literally means “Jesus the Messiah.”
1. The Meaning of Anointing
In the Old Testament, three kinds of people were anointed:
A. Kings — to rule with God’s authority
B. Priests — to minister, intercede, and bring people to God
C. Prophets — to speak God’s word with divine authority
The Messiah would combine all three roles in one unparalleled person.
Wayne Grudem: "As prophet he reveals God to us and speaks God’s words to us; as priest he both offers a sacrifice to God on our behalf and is himself the sacrifice that is offered; and as king he rules over the church and over the universe as well."
2. Messianic Expectation in the Old Testament
The Hebrew Scriptures point repeatedly to a coming Messiah:
• A King from David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12–16)
• A suffering servant (Isaiah 53)
• A prophet like Moses (Deut. 18:15)
• The Son of Man with everlasting dominion (Daniel 7:13–14)
• A shepherd-king (Ezekiel 34:23–24)
Jewish expectation centred on a figure who would:
• restore Israel
• defeat evil
• bring justice
• renew creation
• reveal God’s presence
3. Jesus as the Fulfilment of the Messiah
Christian theology declares that Jesus fulfils all messianic prophecies:
A. Anointed as King
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” — Matthew 28:18
B. Anointed as Prophet
“Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father.” — John 14:9
C. Anointed as High Priest
“He entered once for all… by means of His own blood.” — Hebrews 9:12
D. Anointed to Bring Salvation
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” — Luke 19:10
E. Anointed to Reign Forever
“Of His kingdom there will be no end.” — Luke 1:33
4. The Messiah as Suffering Servant
Isaiah 53 prophesies a Messiah who:
• is despised
• pierced for our transgressions
• bears our iniquities
• brings healing
• justifies many
5. The Messiah as Victorious King
Though He came humbly, the Messiah is also triumphant.
Christians believe Jesus will return as:
• Judge
• King
• Restorer
• Lord of all nations
This is the Messianic hope of the New Testament.
6. Why “Messiah” Matters
A. Reveals Jesus’ identity — the Anointed King,
B. Shows unity of Scripture — one story fulfilled in Christ
C. Grounds salvation — God’s promised deliverer
D. Shapes Christian hope — He will return to renew all things
7. Short Definition
MESSIAH:
The divinely anointed Savior-King promised in the Old Testament and fulfilled in Jesus Christ; the One who brings salvation, reveals God, destroys evil, restores creation, and reigns forever as Prophet, Priest, and King.
In Daily Faith: Believe in Jesus as Savior, guide, and Lord.
In Daily Life: Living in the Hope of the Messiah
The title Messiah is not only a theological truth — it is a daily reality that shapes how believers live, trust, hope, and follow Jesus.
1. Trust Jesus as God’s Anointed King
The Messiah is God’s chosen ruler over all creation — including your life.
Practical Application
• Begin each day acknowledging Jesus’ authority over your decisions and desires.
• Surrender areas where you resist His leadership.
Biblical Guidance
• “All authority… has been given to Me.” — Matthew 28:18
• “The government will be on His shoulders.” — Isaiah 9:6
Why It Matters
Trusting Jesus as King brings order, peace, and direction to your life.
It frees you from the burden of self-rule and anchors you in His perfect leadership.
Encouragement
Your King is wise, gentle, and powerful — you are safe under His rule.
2. Listen to Jesus as the True Prophet
The Messiah reveals God’s heart, truth, and will.
Practical Application
• Read the Gospels regularly to hear Jesus’ voice.
• Let His teachings shape your values, reactions, and worldview.
Biblical Guidance
• “Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father.” — John 14:9
• “This is My beloved Son… listen to Him.” — Matthew 17:5
Why It Matters
Hearing Jesus’ words cuts through confusion, lies, and cultural noise.
His truth brings clarity, conviction, and life.
Encouragement
Jesus still speaks through Scripture — and He speaks personally to you.
3. Rely on Jesus as Your High Priest
The Messiah intercedes, forgives, and brings you into God’s presence.
Practical Application
• Bring your sins, burdens, and weaknesses to Him without fear.
• Rest in His finished work rather than striving for acceptance.
Biblical Guidance
• “He entered once for all… by His own blood.” — Hebrews 9:12
• “We have a great High Priest.” — Hebrews 4:14
Why It Matters
You never approach God alone — Jesus represents you perfectly.
His sacrifice secures your forgiveness and peace.
Encouragement
Your High Priest never tires of carrying you — His mercy is endless.
4. Follow the Messiah’s Way of Suffering Love
The Messiah saves through humility, sacrifice, and love.
Practical Application
• Choose forgiveness over retaliation.
• Serve others sacrificially.
• Embrace humility in conflict and relationships.
Biblical Guidance
• “He was pierced for our transgressions.” — Isaiah 53:5
• “Take up your cross and follow Me.” — Matthew 16:24
Why It Matters
Following the suffering Messiah forms Christlike character and reveals God’s love to the world.
Encouragement
Your suffering is not wasted — the Messiah walks the path with you.
5. Live in Hope of the Victorious Messiah
Jesus will return as Judge, King, and Restorer.
Practical Application
• Let future hope shape present endurance.
• Resist despair by remembering the end of the story.
• Pray, “Your kingdom come.”
Biblical Guidance
• “Of His kingdom there will be no end.” — Luke 1:33
• “The Son of Man… coming with power and great glory.” — Matthew 24:30
Why It Matters
Hope in the returning Messiah gives strength in suffering, courage in trials, and purpose in daily life.
Encouragement
The Messiah who came in humility will return in glory — and He will make all things new.
Summary of Daily Application
Living in the reality of the Messiah means:
Trusting Jesus as King
Listening to Him as Prophet
Relying on Him as High Priest
Following His suffering love
Hoping in His victorious return
The Messiah is not only the centre of Scripture — He is the centre of daily Christian life.
Scripture References:
Isaiah 9:6,
John 1:41,
Matthew 16:16