The Person and Work of Jesus Christ

Fully God and fully man (Philippians 2:6–8), Jesus grew in wisdom and favor with God and men (Luke 2:52). After His baptism in the Jordan River and His temptation in the wilderness (Mark 1:1–13), Jesus began His earthly ministry empowered by the Spirit (Matthew 9:35; Acts 2:22).

Betrayed and handed over to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, Jesus was sentenced to be crucified (Mark 15:15). Yet it was ultimately God the Father who delivered up His willing Son to death to bear the penalty for the sins of the elect (Romans 8:31–33), thereby satisfying the righteous wrath of God. Moreover, His crucifixion defeated Satan, even as he continues to seek the destruction of believers (Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 2:14; 1 Peter 5:8).

Buried in a new tomb, God raised Jesus on the third day (Acts 2:24). The resurrection, witnessed by many (1 Corinthians 15:5–8), vindicated the redemptive work of Christ. His death and resurrection also bound Satan for a symbolic “thousand years,” preventing him from deceiving the nations.

Having fulfilled the Old Testament Scriptures (Luke 24:44), Jesus ascended to the right hand of God, where He remains until all His enemies are placed under His feet (1 Corinthians 15:25).