Christ: Our Sole Mediator and Source of Grace
Summary
In the journey of faith, understanding the role of Christ as our sole mediator is pivotal. Martin Luther's early life, marked by fear and misunderstanding of God's nature, serves as a backdrop to explore the profound doctrine of Christ as our mediator. Luther's initial reliance on Saint Anne as a mediator reflects a common medieval misconception, which was later corrected by the Reformation's emphasis on Christ alone as the mediator between God and humanity. This sermon delves into the historical development of this doctrine, tracing its roots from the Apostles' Creed through the Nicene Creed, and into the Reformation's confessions and catechisms.
The Reformation brought clarity to the understanding of Christ's mediatorial role, emphasizing His unique position as Prophet, Priest, and King. John Calvin's introduction of the "munus triplex" doctrine highlights the unity and perfection of these offices in Christ. Unlike the fragmented medieval view of multiple mediators, the Reformation affirmed that Christ alone bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God. This understanding is beautifully encapsulated in the confessions of the 16th century, such as the French, Hungarian, Polish, and Italian confessions, which underscore Christ's exclusive role as mediator.
The sermon further explores the implications of Christ's mediatorial work, particularly in the context of justification by faith. Romans 5 is pivotal, illustrating how through Christ, we are justified, have peace with God, and gain access to His grace. This grace not only saves but sustains us amidst life's trials. The assurance of Christ's mediatorial role provides stability in a tumultuous world, offering hope and joy even in suffering.
Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to rejoice in the riches of Christ's grace, recognizing that our place at the heavenly feast is undeserved yet graciously given. It is a call to gratitude, praise, and obedience, acknowledging Christ as the sole mediator who reconciles us to God.
Key Takeaways:
- Christ as the Sole Mediator: The Reformation clarified that Christ alone is the mediator between God and humanity, correcting medieval misconceptions of multiple mediators. This understanding is rooted in the biblical narrative and affirmed by historical confessions. [26:18]
- The Munus Triplex Doctrine: John Calvin's insight into Christ's threefold office as Prophet, Priest, and King highlights the unity and perfection of His mediatorial role. This doctrine underscores that Christ alone fulfills these roles perfectly, unlike any other. [13:51]
- Justification and Peace through Christ: Romans 5 illustrates that through Christ, we are justified and have peace with God. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound reconciliation with God, achieved through Christ's mediatorial work. [32:16]
- Grace that Saves and Sustains: Grace is not only the means of our salvation but also sustains us in life's trials. This sustaining grace provides stability and hope, enabling us to stand firm amidst the challenges we face. [42:40]
- Rejoicing in the Riches of Christ's Grace: Our place at the heavenly feast is a gift of grace, undeserved yet freely given. This calls for a response of gratitude, praise, and obedience, recognizing the abundance of blessings in Christ. [48:18]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:15] - Martin Luther's Fear
- [01:13] - Cry for Help
- [01:54] - Christ Our Mediator
- [02:31] - Apostles' and Nicene Creeds
- [03:49] - Medieval Misconceptions
- [05:18] - Luther's Quest for Salvation
- [06:20] - Reformation and Geneva Catechism
- [07:41] - Munus Triplex Doctrine
- [10:10] - Anointed Offices in the Old Testament
- [13:11] - Fulfillment in Christ
- [15:27] - Confessions of 1559
- [18:05] - Christ as Prophet
- [20:10] - Christ as King
- [26:18] - Christ as Sole Mediator
- [32:16] - Justification and Peace
- [42:40] - Grace that Sustains
- [48:18] - Rejoicing in Grace
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Romans 5:1-2
2. 1 Timothy 2:5
3. Exodus 30:30
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Observation Questions:
1. What does Romans 5:1-2 say about the benefits we receive through Christ as our mediator? How does this passage describe our relationship with God? [32:16]
2. According to 1 Timothy 2:5, who is identified as the sole mediator between God and humanity? How does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on Christ's exclusive role? [26:18]
3. In Exodus 30:30, what is the significance of anointing Aaron and his sons, and how does this relate to the concept of Christ's anointed roles as Prophet, Priest, and King? [09:17]
4. How did Martin Luther's initial understanding of mediators reflect the medieval misconceptions, and what changed his perspective? [01:13]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the doctrine of "munus triplex" (Christ's threefold office) deepen our understanding of His role as mediator? Why is it important that Christ fulfills these roles perfectly? [13:51]
2. What does the sermon suggest about the impact of Christ's mediatorial work on our justification and peace with God? How does this understanding affect a believer's daily life? [32:16]
3. How does the Reformation's emphasis on Christ as the sole mediator challenge the medieval church's view of multiple mediators? What implications does this have for modern faith practices? [26:18]
4. In what ways does the assurance of Christ's mediatorial role provide stability and hope in a tumultuous world, according to the sermon? [19:54]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you relied on something or someone other than Christ as your mediator. How did that experience shape your understanding of Christ's exclusive role? [01:13]
2. The sermon highlights the importance of rejoicing in the riches of Christ's grace. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and praise in your daily life? What specific actions can you take this week? [48:18]
3. Considering the doctrine of justification by faith, how can you remind yourself of the peace you have with God through Christ during challenging times? [32:16]
4. How can the understanding of Christ's sustaining grace help you face current trials or uncertainties in your life? What practical steps can you take to rely more on this grace? [42:40]
5. The sermon calls believers to obedience in response to Christ's mediatorial work. Identify one area in your life where you can grow in obedience to God. What changes will you make this week? [50:24]
6. How does the concept of Christ as King influence your perspective on leadership and authority in your life? In what ways can you submit to His reign more fully? [21:28]
7. Reflect on the idea of being a guest at the heavenly feast. How does this image inspire you to live out your faith with joy and hope? What specific actions can you take to share this joy with others? [48:18]
Devotional
Day 1: Christ Alone as Our Mediator
In the journey of faith, understanding Christ as the sole mediator between God and humanity is crucial. The Reformation clarified this truth, correcting medieval misconceptions of multiple mediators. This understanding is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and affirmed by historical confessions. Christ alone bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God, offering a direct relationship with the Father. This truth is not just theological but deeply personal, inviting believers to rely solely on Christ for their spiritual needs. [26:18]
"For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time." (1 Timothy 2:5-6, ESV)
Reflection: In what ways have you relied on other "mediators" in your spiritual life, and how can you refocus on Christ as your sole mediator today?
Day 2: The Unity of Christ's Threefold Office
John Calvin's "munus triplex" doctrine highlights Christ's unique role as Prophet, Priest, and King. This doctrine underscores the unity and perfection of His mediatorial role, unlike any other. As Prophet, Christ reveals God's truth; as Priest, He intercedes and sacrifices for us; as King, He reigns with authority. This comprehensive understanding of Christ's work assures us that He perfectly fulfills all that is needed for our salvation and spiritual growth. [13:51]
"And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent." (Colossians 1:18, ESV)
Reflection: Which aspect of Christ's threefold office (Prophet, Priest, King) do you need to embrace more fully in your life, and how can you do so practically this week?
Day 3: Justification and Peace through Christ
Romans 5 illustrates that through Christ, we are justified and have peace with God. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound reconciliation with God, achieved through Christ's mediatorial work. Justification by faith assures us of our standing before God, freeing us from guilt and fear. This peace transforms our relationship with God, allowing us to live confidently in His grace and love. [32:16]
"Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God." (Romans 5:1-2, ESV)
Reflection: How does the assurance of being justified by faith change the way you approach God in prayer and daily life?
Day 4: Grace that Saves and Sustains
Grace is not only the means of our salvation but also sustains us in life's trials. This sustaining grace provides stability and hope, enabling us to stand firm amidst the challenges we face. It is a continuous source of strength, reminding us of God's presence and provision in every circumstance. Embracing this grace allows us to navigate life's difficulties with confidence and peace. [42:40]
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV)
Reflection: In what current trial or challenge do you need to rely more on God's sustaining grace, and how can you actively seek His strength today?
Day 5: Rejoicing in the Riches of Christ's Grace
Our place at the heavenly feast is a gift of grace, undeserved yet freely given. This calls for a response of gratitude, praise, and obedience, recognizing the abundance of blessings in Christ. Rejoicing in His grace transforms our perspective, leading us to live with joy and thankfulness. It is an invitation to celebrate the richness of God's love and to share it with others. [48:18]
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 1:3, ESV)
Reflection: How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and joy for the grace you've received, and who can you share this joy with today?
Quotes
In the year 1559, it was an explosion of confessions. I like to say they were confessing like it was 1559. The first one was the French confession. The Reformation never got a strong foothold in France. There was a moment where it looked like it would, but and why are we doing this? Why are we pushing, risking, suffering? It does matter what we believe. [00:14:08]
Calvin noticed that Christ is a title. Jesus the Christ is a title, and it means the anointed one. And then Calvin, clever Theologian that he was, started looking through the Old Testament to see the offices where there was an anointing, and he soon discovered three: prophets were anointed, priests were anointed, and kings were anointed. [00:07:19]
The pinov confession tells us that the Son of God performed this office so that he might reveal his father to us, that he might reveal his entire plan for our Salvation both now and Through the Ages until the consummation. He persists in this office of mediator so that he may reveal to us the mystery of our Salvation. [00:18:05]
Romans 5 illustrates that through Christ, we are justified and have peace with God. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound reconciliation with God, achieved through Christ's mediatorial work. We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him, we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand. [00:32:16]
Grace saves us, but there's something else Grace does: it sustains us. Not only do we have access, but we are saved and sustained by this grace, and it is in this grace that we stand. Grace simply wasn't dispensed back in the past; it is, it is, and we stand in it, and all things get hurled at us. [00:42:40]
The Reformation helped us understand the exclusivity of that: I am the way, I am the truth, I am the life. There's salvation found in only one name, Peter will thunderously preach, and then Paul declares it: one mediator. So, lanio ragnoni, it is therefore not possible nor allowed to come to God by any other means. [00:26:18]
Christ is the King of Kings and the Lord of lords. He himself suffered. One German Theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, once said, one must be a king of a very strange Kingdom indeed if the king was crucified on a cross. And so, Jesus our King, no stranger to sorrow, is able to protect and defend and comfort his church. [00:22:01]
We have to say it because in our sinfulness, we pervert and distort, and we cling to this thing. In the medieval church, it was the Saints; in our day and age, it may very well be our own self-righteousness. Oh, we can do this, we're Americans, we White Knuckle our way out of all kinds of things. [00:36:59]
The assurance of Christ's mediatorial role provides stability in a tumultuous world, offering hope and joy even in suffering. Jesus teaches us, stabilizes us. The pincho confession goes on to speak of Christ as king. Think of these Polish reformed people, and they're in the minority, and they're being persecuted. [00:20:03]
Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to rejoice in the riches of Christ's grace, recognizing that our place at the heavenly feast is undeserved yet graciously given. It is a call to gratitude, praise, and obedience, acknowledging Christ as the sole mediator who reconciles us to God. [00:48:18]
The doctrine of justification in the Bible, numbers aside, in between the wrath of God and the peace of God, is the doctrine of justification. And we have to say it, we have to say it: Sola solar, Sola Sola F, Sola gratia, Solus Christus. [00:36:39]
Christ Our mediator, we had a moment Thursday afternoon with Dr. Reeves. We had a throwback to the Old Lioner Valley study center days. We had a Theology gabfest, and I was the mediator between Dr. Reeves and the students for them to ask questions. [00:46:07]
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