“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.”
A mediator is someone brought in to a conflict to negotiate between two parties with the goal of healing and reconciliation. Because of sin, humanity severed it’s relationship with a holy God, and a mediator was needed to bring about restoration.
Paul explains in this passage that Jesus was the only one who could act as mediator. His unique qualifications – being both God (holy and without sin) and man (flesh and blood identifying with all of humanity) allowed him to stand as a go between. And in order to bring about this reconciliation, he went further than any mediator has ever been willing to go. He gave his own sinless life as a ransom to purchase our freedom from sin, and restored us into a right relationship with the Father.
While using the HEAR method (see below) consider the following questions:
- Have you ever acted as a mediator, possibly with family or friends? Were you able to bring reconciliation? How does that experience compare or contrast with Jesus as mediator?
- Take some time to reflect on what it means that Jesus was and is our mediator. This passage follows a request from Paul for prayer. How does Jesus as mediator fit into our prayer life?
Highlight – what words or phrases jump out at you?
Explain – what does the passage mean?
Apply – how does the passage intersect with your life today?
Respond – how is God leading you respond?