This article is the third in a three-part series exploring the Munus Triplex—the threefold office of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and King. This article focuses on Jesus Christ as the Cosmic King.

Percy Bysshe Shelley’s poem “Ozymandias” [1] recounts the tale of a traveller who stumbles upon the ruins of a once-mighty statue in a desolate desert. The pedestal bears the arrogant inscription:

“My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!”

The irony is striking. The “colossal wreck” of the statue, surrounded by “boundless and bare” sands, starkly contrasts with the boastful claim. The lifeless ruins speak to the frailty and transience of human power. Earthly kings like Ozymandias derive their authority from fleeting sources—armies, monuments, and the fear of their subjects. Such power is fragile, tethered to the impermanence of human institutions and mortal bodies. Time erodes their legacies, and death ultimately levels their kingdoms. Even the mightiest are forgotten, their grand achievements lost beneath the sands of history.

In contrast to Ozymandias’ temporal reign, the prophet Daniel introduces us to a figure whose kingship is eternal: the Son of Man. In a vision filled with awe and wonder, Daniel describes:

“I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.” (Daniel 7:13-14)

The image of the Son of Man presents a ruler whose authority does not stem from human might or mortal strength but from the Ancient of Days, who grants Him a divine commission and guarantees the permanence of His reign. His dominion is universal, extending to “all peoples, nations, and languages,” and His kingdom is imperishable, untouched by the ravages of time and decay. This vision finds fulfilment in Jesus Christ, who frequently refers to Himself as the Son of Man in the Gospels. Unlike Ozymandias, whose earthly reign crumbled into oblivion, Jesus established a kingdom that will never fade. His kingship is founded not on human frailty but on divine power and eternal authority. Where Ozymandias’ legacy inspires despair as a cautionary tale of human hubris, Christ’s reign offers life, hope, and redemption in a kingdom that will endure forever.

The Biblical Role of King

The biblical role of the king is rooted in the establishment of divine authority and leadership among God’s people, addressing their need for guidance and justice following the Fall in Genesis 3, which introduced disorder and rebellion into creation. Kings were tasked with ruling on God’s behalf, ensuring justice and righteousness in the land (2 Samuel 23:3-4), and protecting the people from oppression and external threats (1 Samuel 8:20). Their authority symbolized the reign of God, underlining their responsibility to lead according to His law (Deuteronomy 17:18-20). Ultimately, their role anticipated the eternal kingship of Christ, whose perfect and everlasting dominion fulfils the divine purpose of kingship (Daniel 7:14; Revelation 19:16).

Archetypal Kings

The archetypal kings of the Bible serve as both shadows of God’s ideal ruler and as signposts pointing to the ultimate kingship of Jesus Christ.

David, the Shepherd King (1 Samuel 16-2 Samuel 7): David is a king chosen for his heart, not his stature, and God establishes a covenant with him promising an eternal throne (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Yet David’s sins, like his affair with Bathsheba and the resulting consequences (2 Samuel 11-12), highlight the imperfections of human rulers. Christ, the Son of David (Luke 1:32-33), fulfils this covenant as the eternal and sinless King.

Solomon, the Wise King (1 Kings 1-11): Solomon foreshadows Christ through his unparalleled wisdom (1 Kings 3:12-13) and the building of the temple, which points to Christ as the true temple (John 2:19-21). However, Solomon’s idolatry and divided heart (1 Kings 11:4-11) underscore the frailty of human kingship.

Hezekiah, the Reformer King (2 Kings 18-20): Hezekiah models reliance on God, trusting Him to deliver Judah from Assyria (2 Kings 19:15-19, 35-37). Yet, his pride and short-sightedness in showing Babylon his treasures (2 Kings 20:12-19) contrast with Christ’s perfect humility and eternal wisdom (Philippians 2:8).

Nebuchadnezzar, the Worldly King (Daniel 1-4): As the ruler of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar epitomizes the hubris of earthly kings who exalt themselves above God. His humbling by God and eventual acknowledgement of God’s sovereignty illustrate the fleeting nature of human power and foreshadow the eternal reign of the Son of Man, whose dominion surpasses all kingdoms.

Jesus Christ as the Cosmic King

The sovereignty of Christ is unparalleled, for He does not derive His power from armies, wealth, or alliances but from His divine nature as the eternal Son of God. He commands the cosmos, sustaining all things by the Word of His power (Hebrews 1:3). His reign is not limited by borders or bound by time but is universal and everlasting, extending over every nation, tribe, and tongue, uniting them in worship under His rule (Revelation 7:9-10).

Christ’s kingship is marked by infinite wisdom and perfect justice. Unlike flawed earthly rulers who govern with partial understanding, His judgments are unsearchable and His ways inscrutable (Romans 11:33). He rules with a balance of power and grace, executing justice while extending mercy, embodying both the Lion of Judah and the Lamb who was slain (Revelation 5:5-6). His grace transforms His subjects, not through fear but through love, calling them into His kingdom of light (Colossians 1:13).

The majesty of Christ’s kingship is evident in His unparalleled stature. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, exalted above every name, and at His name, every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that He is Lord (Philippians 2:9-11). His glory fills the heavens and surpasses the grandeur of any earthly throne (Isaiah 6:1-3). Yet, His greatness does not alienate Him from His people; in His humility, He came not to be served but to serve, giving His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).

Application

Live as Loyal Subjects: As citizens of Christ’s eternal kingdom, our allegiance belongs first and foremost to Him. This entails living in obedience to His commands and reflecting His values of justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8). Our actions, words, and decisions should bear witness to His reign in our lives, demonstrating His transformative grace to the world (Matthew 5:16).

Proclaim His Reign: As subjects of the King, we are His ambassadors, entrusted with the message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20). Share the good news of Christ’s sovereign and gracious rule with others, inviting them to bow before the King of kings and experience the life, joy, and redemption He offers.

Worship His Majesty: Christ’s kingship is proclaimed through the faithful preaching of Scripture, which reveals His glory, power, and grace. As the living Word, the Bible carries Christ’s authority, calling us to worship with awe and reverence. Sound preaching convicts, teaches, and transforms us, deepening our devotion and drawing us to submit to His sovereign rule. Through regular engagement with the Word, both in corporate and private worship, we reflect on His eternal reign, respond in praise, and allow His truth to fuel our faith, shaping and empowering our lives (Romans 10:14-17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 96:6-9).

Trust in His Immutability: In a world marked by change and uncertainty, Christ’s unchanging reign provides an anchor for our souls (Hebrews 13:8). Trust in His eternal nature, knowing His promises are secure, His purposes unshakable, and His power unfailing. This assurance should foster peace in the face of life’s trials (Isaiah 26:3).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jesus Christ, the Cosmic King, reigns with unmatched authority, wisdom, and grace. His eternal dominion contrasts sharply with the fleeting power of earthly rulers, offering hope and assurance to His subjects. As loyal citizens of His imperishable kingdom, we are called to live in obedience, proclaim His sovereignty, worship His majesty, and trust in His unchanging reign. In a world where human power falters, Christ’s kingship stands as a beacon of eternal stability and redemptive love, inviting all to bow before the King of kings and partake in His everlasting kingdom.

Notes

[1] Percy Bysshe Shelley, Ozymandias, 1818 https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46565/ozymandias

The post Munus Triplex: Christ the Cosmic King appeared first on TGN.

While preparing for a recent Sunday School class at my church, I was deeply encouraged as I reflected on Jesus’s offices. This article is the fruit of that study, and I hope it brings you similar encouragement. It is the second in a three-part series exploring the Munus Triplex—the threefold office of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and King. This article focuses on Jesus Christ as the Definitive Prophet.

The concept of prophethood forms both a vital connection and a profound division between Islam and Christianity. In the Quran, Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40) designates Muhammad as the “Seal of the Prophets,” signifying within Islam that he is the final prophet in a lineage of messengers from Allah. This view contrasts sharply with the Biblical perspective, where prophecy culminates not merely in a line of succession but in the person of Jesus Christ, the ultimate, complete and authoritative revelation of God. As stated in Hebrews 1:1-2:

“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.”

Jesus is not simply the last in a sequence of prophets; He is portrayed as the divine Logos, the very Word by whom all things were made (John 1:1-3). This transcends the role of a prophet and signifies His divine nature, establishing Jesus as the eternal Son who fully embodies God’s final revelation. As Athanasius taught, as the Incarnate Word, Jesus uniquely fulfils the role of Prophet by making God known through His very being, not just through speech.

With that in mind, Jesus’ prophethood is crucial for understanding how the Bible intends for us to perceive Him. Let’s begin our exploration.

The Biblical Role of Prophet

In the Bible, a prophet is one appointed to speak on behalf of God, revealing His words and will to the people (Deuteronomy 18:18). Prophets were divinely chosen to call people to repentance (Jeremiah 7:25), reveal future events (Isaiah 53), and instruct them in God’s commands. This often included the challenging task of rebuking disobedience and urging Israel back to covenantal faithfulness (Jeremiah 25:4-5). The prophetic office was centered on God’s self-revelation, guiding Israel toward truth and righteousness (Amos 3:7), and ultimately pointing to the coming Messiah (Isaiah 9:6).

Archetypal Prophetic Figures

Several Old Testament prophets prefigure the ultimate Final Prophet, Jesus Christ:

Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15-18): Moses, Israel’s first major prophet, spoke with God directly and delivered the Law, leading Israel from Egypt and setting the foundation for a future prophet “like Moses” who would speak God’s words to the people (Deuteronomy 18:18). Acts 3:22 identifies Jesus as this fulfilment, establishing Him as the ultimate and greater Moses.

Elijah (1 Kings 17-19): Known for his miraculous works, courage against idolatry, and confrontation with King Ahab, Elijah exemplified bold prophetic ministry, calling Israel to repentance and showing God’s power. His life foreshadows Jesus’ mission to call people to repentance and oppose spiritual darkness (Matthew 17:11-13).

Isaiah and the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 52-53): Isaiah’s vision of a Suffering Servant who would bear the sins of many points directly to Jesus. As the ultimate Prophet, Jesus not only declared God’s truth but fulfilled it as the Word of God through His sacrificial death for His people.

Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Prophetic Office

Jesus as the Word of God: Jesus is not merely a messenger but the Logos—the very Word of God (John 1:1-2). Unlike former prophets who delivered God’s messages, Jesus embodies God’s truth in Himself, revealing His nature, character, and purpose.

Jesus’ Miracles as Prophetic Signs: Jesus’ miracles, unlike those of earlier prophets, uniquely confirm His authority as Prophet and Son (John 5:36). His acts of healing, raising the dead, and forgiving sins demonstrate God’s compassion and power to redeem spiritually and eternally.

Jesus’ Teachings as the Voice of God: Jesus taught with unprecedented authority, often introducing His teachings with, “But I say to you” (Matthew 5:22). His messages call for love, forgiveness, and purity, fulfilling and surpassing previous revelations. His teachings, especially the Sermon on the Mount, reveal God’s heart and provide ultimate guidance for righteous living.

Jesus’ Life as Prophetic Fulfillment: Every detail of Jesus’ life fulfils Messianic prophecies—from His birth (Micah 5:2) to His mission (Isaiah 61:1-2) and His sacrificial death (Isaiah 53), affirming God’s promises and revealing Jesus as the awaited Messiah. Over 300 prophecies attest to this reality.

Jesus’ Death and Resurrection as Fulfillment of Prophetic Hope: Jesus’ sacrificial death as the Lamb of God (John 1:29) and His resurrection climax His prophetic role, embodying God’s justice and mercy. His resurrection validates His teachings and fulfils God’s salvation plan, confirming His identity as the final and true Prophet.

Jesus as Mediator of God’s Presence and Kingdom: As the ultimate Prophet, Jesus inaugurates God’s Kingdom, reconciling humanity to God and establishing the New Covenant. Through His Spirit, He continues to guide believers, fulfilling the promise of bringing His people into God’s presence.

Application

Objective Truth and Revelation: Jesus, as the final Prophet, provides the ultimate source of truth about God. His life and teachings are the clearest revelation of God’s character and will (John 14:6). For Christians, this means that Jesus’ words are foundational for understanding who God is and how to live according to His will. Studying Scripture, particularly the Gospels, becomes central to knowing God, as all Scripture points to Christ (Luke 24:27).

Call to Repentance and Obedience: Jesus, like the prophets of old, calls all people to repentance but with greater authority. This means that if you are not in alignment with Jesus’ teaching, you are in conflict with your Creator. Jesus’ teachings challenge us to turn from sin and obey God’s commands. Through His prophetic role, Jesus calls us to live holy lives in response to the truth He reveals (Mark 1:15). This has direct implications for our discipleship, urging us to follow His teachings and walk in His example.

Guidance and Comfort: As the final Prophet, Jesus offers correction, guidance, and comfort to His followers. Through the Holy Spirit, believers receive illumination and understanding of Jesus’ teachings, providing direction in times of uncertainty (John 14:26). Jesus’ words of assurance and promises offer us hope, particularly when faced with trials.

Conclusion

As the Prince of Preachers, Charles Spurgeon often reminded his listeners, “What think ye of Christ is the test question, which is the most important of all questions for a man’s soul to answer.” Jesus Christ’s role as the Definitive Prophet completes and perfects the work of the Old Testament prophets. In Him, God’s ultimate revelation is fully realized as He speaks God’s words, embodies them, and calls people into the Truth. Jesus’ prophetic ministry, coupled with His roles as Priest and King, demonstrates the comprehensive nature of His redemptive work. Through Him, we are brought near to God and shown how to live in His Truth.

The post Munus Triplex: Christ the Definitive Prophet appeared first on TGN.