Through the ages, humanity has grappled with life's most profound questions: What is our purpose? What will happen to me when I die? How should we treat one another? Among the many figures who have shaped these discussions, Jesus Christ stands out as a central influence. To understand why humanity needs Jesus Christ, we need to examine the multi-layered impact He has had on culture, ethics, community, and individual lives.
The Historical Context of Jesus Christ
The story of Jesus Christ, primarily found in the New Testament, reveals a Messianic figure who was prophesied to come in the Old Testament as God the Son and Savior of the world who was divinely conceived in the womb of a virgin woman (Isaiah 7:14, 9:6, Matthew 1:18, 22, Luke 1:26-32). navigated the complex social and political landscape of first-century Judea. Matthew 5:17 presents a chief purpose of Jesus's earthly ministry: to fulfill the law and prophets. Jesus came to accomplish all that the Old Testament foretold and to complete all the righteous of the Old Testament required. Christ came to bring the scriptures to their intended goal or predestined destination. When Jesus speaks of fulfilling the law and the prophets, He is speaking of bringing to fulfillment both the prophecies of Scripture and Scripture as a whole by His coming as the Messiah and through His ministry. He challenged the established religious norms, promoting a clearer understanding of the law with a focus on love and forgiveness. Christ came not to abolish the law but to fulfill the law and the prophets which was God's standard for humanity given through Moses to His people. The law came 430 years after God's promise to Abraham that in him all the nations would be blessed: Genesis 22:18 - "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed..." Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, "And to seeds," as of many, but as of one, "And to your Seed," who is Christ, the promised Messiah. The Law was our guardian until the offspring would come which is Christ to whom the promise had been made in order that humanity would be justified (declared righteous) by faith (Galatians 3:19, 24). God’s promise comes through the righteousness of faith, Read Romans 4:13 – The promise to Abraham and his offspring (seed) which is Christ did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. Christ is the promised offspring (seed) through Abraham (family lineage) to bless all nations. Romans 4:21-22 tells us that Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness. Therefore, we will be credited with righteousness through faith as well in accordance with God’s promise to Abraham that extends to all the nations. Romans 4:23-24 – therefore all people will be credited with righteousness as well who believe God raised Jesus from the dead. In Scripture we see that we are credited with righteousness through faith because Gods’ requirement is faith. This was only possible through the death of Jesus Christ who took the punishment of sin that humanity deserves upon Himself and was raised from the dead so that we could receive forgiveness of sin and be restored in our relationship with God who by His grace grants us eternal life in His forever kingdom. Romans 4:25 tells us that Christ was delivered up on the cross for our transgressions and was raised from the dead for our Justification, meaning that God accepted Christ's sacrificial payment and we can be credited with Christ's righteousness by faith. Jesus is the answer to humanities greatest problem of sin and death.
Jesus’ life unfolded during a period marked by division, oppression, and spiritual confusion. For instance, His ministry occurred under Roman occupation, where many living in poverty were searching for hope. By recognizing this context, we can appreciate Jesus’ transformative approach, which sought to build a meaningful relationship between humanity and the divine, rather than merely reforming existing beliefs. Jesus went out of His way during His earthly ministry to point people to the Father and His love for humanity. Jesus stated that He came to serve humanity with His life, to be a ransom (payment) for many (Mark 10:45). Therefore, He did not come to abolish the Law, regardless of what the religious leaders accused Him of. He came to fulfill the Law on our behalf so that we would not have to be punished and be eternally separated from God who desires for all people to be saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Ethical Teachings and Moral Framework
Jesus’ ethical teachings have had a profound impact on moral discussions across various cultures. He emphasized principles such as love for one’s neighbor, the importance of humility, and the necessity of mercy. For example, the parable of the Good Samaritan teaches that compassion should extend beyond social or religious boundaries. This story has inspired countless acts of kindness, promoting values that resonate deeply with our collective desire for justice and compassion.
His teachings have spurred social movements advocating for change, such as the abolition of slavery in the 19th century in the United States, driven by Christian leaders who felt called to action. Furthermore, Jesus’ messages have inspired modern humanitarian efforts, urging followers to support marginalized communities and fight against poverty. Research indicates that faith-based organizations provide over 40% of all social services worldwide, highlighting the continued relevance of His moral guidance.
Jesus Christ as a Catalyst for Community
When considering why humanity needs Jesus Christ, His role in fostering community becomes clear. Throughout history, Christianity has served as a unifying force, bringing individuals from different backgrounds together for a common purpose. That is because the church is considered to be the body of Christ who is unified and guided by the truths of God's word as they follow the teaching of Jesus Christ which is to love God and love people. Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus tells us that we are to love the Lord our God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our mind, which is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it: you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depends all the Law and the Prophets.
Churches and religious organizations create environments where community members can support one another through life's challenges. In fact, studies show that individuals involved in faith communities report higher levels of happiness and lower levels of depression and anxiety. This sense of belonging combats isolation and loneliness, which are increasingly common in today’s society. Also, the sense of purpose that comes from a personal relationship with God through Jesus that gives them a hope that brings peace.
In a world where many feel lost, the communal aspects of following Jesus can provide the meaningful connections many people are longing for.
The Concept of Grace and Forgiveness
At the heart of Jesus Christ's teachings is the idea of grace—unearned favor offered to all. For the Law was given through Moses because of transgressions; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (to save us from our transgressions) (John 1:17) This is important because the Law speaks to those under the Law so that every mouth would be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. And that by the works of the Law no human being will be justified (declared righteous) in HIs sight, since through the Law comes knowledge of sin (Romans 3:19-20). This means that God's gift to humanity would be His grace through Jesus Christ so that humanity would be saved by grace through faith and this is in no way a result of any works of our own to earn salvation because this is a gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9). All of humanity needs God to grant us grace and forgive us of our sin because all of us sinned and fall short of the glory of God (His righteous requirement - Romans 3:23) And we are only justified (declared righteous- in order to fulfill God's righteous requirement) by His grace as a gift through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation (perfect sacrifice for humanity) to be received by faith (Romans 3:24-25). In Jesus Christ we have redemption through His blood and forgiveness of sin according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7). Jesus needed to shed His blood and die for our sins as the perfect sacrifice according to the law so that we could be forgiven (Hebrews 9:22). It is Jesus Christ, the Son of God once for all at the end of ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. According to the Bible and Christian beliefs, humanity's failure leads to a need for redemption, which Jesus provides through His ultimate act of grace on the cross, to free humanity from sin and death.
This concept encourages individuals to forgive themselves and others, paving the way for healing and reconciliation. For instance, many people have found solace in the practice of forgiveness, often reporting a significant reduction in stress and an improvement in their relationships. This message of grace transcends religious boundaries, reaching those struggling with guilt, shame, and broken relationships.
By promoting forgiveness, Jesus empowers people to shed bitterness and build connections based on compassion and understanding.
The Search for Meaning and Purpose
The modern world can be overwhelmingly distracting, often leaving individuals searching for meaning and purpose. Jesus Christ addresses these existential questions. His life demonstrated a commitment to service, love, and a connection with something greater than oneself. That is a personal connection to God the Father and a personal relationship with our creator God in whom we were created. He determines our purpose and we are a part of His plan in that we were created in the image of God
His teachings encourage individuals to explore their identity and purpose beyond societal measures of success—like wealth or status. For many, Jesus’ call to serve others provides a foundation for a fulfilling life. In fact, research shows that people who engage in altruistic behavior report greater life satisfaction.
By aligning with Jesus’ teachings, individuals embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and purpose.
The Ongoing Relevance of Jesus Christ
Remarkably, despite the transformative changes throughout history, Jesus Christ's relevance remains strong. His messages of love, hope, and forgiveness still resonate, inspiring countless individuals around the world to engage in acts of kindness, advocate for social justice, and build relationships based on empathy.
Today, we face rapid technological advancements and social challenges that can leave people feeling disconnected. Jesus’ teachings remind us of our shared humanity, urging us to look beyond ourselves and consider the well-being of others.
Final Thoughts
As we navigate the intricacies of modern life, the need for Jesus Christ who is the Son of God remains clear. Because of who Jesus is, who He proclaimed to be and what He accomplished through the fulfilment of hundreds of prophesies through His life death and resurrection He deserves the attention of all people because this message of salvation through grace transcends all ages, and all cultures. Also, through His teachings and example, He provides ethical guidance, fosters community, and embodies grace and forgiveness.
The exploration of Jesus Christ’s impact on humanity reveals that His influence reaches far beyond religious practice—it touches the essence of what it means to love, connect, and seek purpose.
In a world filled with challenges, Jesus’ message continues to inspire hope, offering pathways to healing and understanding. His enduring legacy lies in his ability to touch the hearts of those seeking truth, love, and a sense of belonging.
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