Jesus is Our Mediator
The necessity of a mediator arises from the reality of human sin and the holiness of God. Scripture teaches that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), and that sin separates humanity from God (Isaiah 59:2). The Old Testament sacrificial system, with its priests and offerings, was instituted to address this separation, but it was ultimately insufficient to bring about full reconciliation. The author of Hebrews reflects on this limitation, noting that “it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Hebrews 10:4). The repeated sacrifices and the ongoing priestly ministry pointed to the need for a greater, final mediator who could truly bridge the gap between God and man.
Old Testament Shadows of Mediation
Throughout the Old Testament, the role of the mediator is seen in figures such as Moses, who stood between God and Israel, interceding on their behalf (Exodus 32:30-32). The high priest, especially on the Day of Atonement, entered the Holy of Holies to offer sacrifices for the sins of the people (Leviticus 16). But these mediators were themselves sinners and subject to death. Their ministry was provisional and anticipatory, foreshadowing the coming of a perfect Mediator.
The prophet Isaiah, in foretelling the work of the suffering servant, hints at a coming figure who would bear the sins of many and make intercession for transgressors (Isaiah 53:12). This prophetic vision sets the stage for the New Testament revelation of Jesus as the one who fulfills and transcends all previous roles.
What is the Role of Jesus as a Mediator?
The New Testament writings unequivocally establish that Jesus is the sole and sufficient Mediator between God and man. Paul’s declaration in 1 Timothy 2:5 is foundational: “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” This statement has power for its exclusivity and clarity. Jesus is not one among many mediators; he is the only one. The context of this passage, which emphasizes God’s desire for all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4), highlights the universal reach and necessity of Jesus’ mediatorial work.
The uniqueness of Jesus’ mediation is rooted in his dual nature. As truly God and truly man, Jesus alone is qualified to represent both parties. The author of Hebrews explains that Jesus “had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people” (Hebrews 2:17). Only one who is fully human can stand in solidarity with humanity, and only one who is fully divine can bring reconciliation with God.
What does Jesus do as the Mediator Between God and Man?
Jesus’ role as our Mediator is multifaceted, encompassing his incarnation, atoning death, resurrection, ascension, and ongoing intercession.
In his incarnation, Jesus entered fully into the human condition, experiencing temptation, suffering, and even death, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15). This identification with humanity enables him to be a sympathetic and effective mediator. The writer of Hebrews encourages believers with these words: “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). Jesus’ experience of human weakness comforts us because he understands our struggles and intercedes for us with compassion.
The atoning death of Jesus is the heart of his mediatorial work. By offering himself as a sacrifice for sin, Jesus accomplished what the Old Testament sacrifices could only symbolize. Hebrews 9:15 states, “Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.” Jesus’ blood inaugurates the new covenant, securing forgiveness and access to God for all who trust in him.
Jesus’ resurrection and ascension further establish his mediatorial role. Having conquered death, he now lives forever to intercede for those who draw near to God through him (Hebrews 7:25). His ascension to the right hand of God signifies the completion of his work and his ongoing ministry as our advocate. John writes, “But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous” (1 John 2:1). Jesus’ advocacy is not a continual sacrifice, but a continual application of the once-for-all sacrifice he offered on the cross.
Implications for Christian Life and Worship
Jesus is our Mediator. This has profound implications for how believers approach God, understand salvation, and relate to one another.
First, Jesus’ mediatorship assures believers of direct access to God. The tearing of the temple veil at the moment of Jesus’ death (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the removal of barriers between God and humanity. Believers no longer need a human priest to approach God on their behalf; through Jesus, they are invited to come boldly into God’s presence (Hebrews 10:19-22).
Second, the sufficiency of Jesus’ mediation guards against any attempt to add to his work. The New Testament warns against seeking other mediators, whether human or angelic (Colossians 2:18-19). Salvation is found in Jesus alone, and any system that introduces additional mediators undermines the gospel. As Peter proclaimed, “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).
Third, Jesus’ role as Mediator shapes the way Christians pray and worship. Prayers are offered “in Jesus’ name,” not as a mere formula, but as an acknowledgment that access to God is possible only through him (John 14:6, 13-14). Worship is centered on Jesus’ person and work, celebrating the grace and mercy that flow from his ministry.
Finally, the example of Jesus as our Mediator calls believers to a ministry of reconciliation. Paul writes, “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18). Just as Jesus intercedes for us, Christians are called to intercede for others, proclaiming the message of reconciliation and embodying the love and mercy of God in their relationships.
Conclusion
Jesus is the Mediator between God and man. Through him, the barrier of sin is removed, access to God is granted, and the promise of eternal life is secured. As believers reflect on the depth of Jesus’ mediatorial work, we are invited to draw near to God with confidence, to rest in the sufficiency of his grace, and to participate in the ministry of reconciliation to which all are called. In Jesus, the fullness of God’s love and justice is revealed, and the way to true fellowship with God is opened forever.