Messiah means anointed one. Christ is the corresponding Greek title, not Jesus' surname. Matthew announces Jesus as the Messiah at the beginning and then teaches us what that title means through his story. The promised King saves through a path that even his closest followers find difficult to accept.
The lexical entry for Christ explains the title's meaning. Matthew supplies its particular content: Jesus is David's son, God's beloved Son, the merciful servant, and the crucified and risen Lord.
A promise with a history
Read Matthew 1:1–6. Abraham and David connect Jesus to God's promises of blessing and kingship. The covenant with David in 2 Samuel 7:12–16 first concerns David's royal house and its continuation. Matthew presents Jesus within that history and as the one in whom its hope reaches fulfillment.
This keeps Messiah from becoming a vague label for anyone who inspires us. Jesus belongs to Israel's story. His mission fulfills God's faithfulness to a particular people while opening blessing to all nations. It also prevents us from treating the Old Testament as a discarded preface to Christianity.
The question Jesus makes personal
In Matthew 16:13–20, Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. He has recognized more than a prophet or a teacher. Jesus attributes this recognition to the Father's disclosure.
But a correct title does not mean Peter yet understands the mission. When Jesus speaks about suffering, death, and resurrection, Peter objects. Read Matthew 16:21–28. Peter wants a Messiah whose path avoids the cross. Jesus will not allow a disciple's expectations to define his obedience to the Father.
We face a similar temptation when we welcome Jesus' help but resist his authority. Trust begins to mature when we let his words correct the kind of Savior we have imagined.
Mercy shows the King's character
Matthew repeatedly brings people to Jesus with a plea for mercy addressed to David's son. His kingship is visible in compassion toward people who cannot command a hearing. The blind men beside the road in Matthew 20:29–34 persist while the crowd tells them to be quiet. Jesus stops and restores their sight.
This mercy belongs with the declaration immediately before it: the Son of Man gives his life as a ransom for many in Matthew 20:20–28. Ransom is language of release at cost. Jesus interprets his approaching death as a saving gift for others. The meal in Matthew 26:26–30 identifies forgiveness as a purpose of his poured-out blood.
The cross does not cancel his kingship
Mockers call Jesus king while humiliating him. Their words carry an irony they do not intend: the one they reject is the one Matthew has identified from the opening chapter. Jesus refuses to use his power simply to escape his mission.
The Resurrection confirms that death is not the final verdict on him. In Matthew 28:16–20, the risen Jesus claims authority over heaven and earth and sends his followers to all nations. The King who gives the commission also promises to remain with his people.
Let Jesus define the title
Fulfillment of Scripture explains the promises and patterns Matthew gathers around Jesus. The Kingdom of Heaven describes the reign he brings. Discipleship is our response of learning, trust, and obedience under this King.
Words of Wisdom: We do not honor Jesus fully by giving him the right title while refusing the way he leads.
A Prayer: Jesus, promised King and merciful Savior, correct my expectations where they resist your words. Help me receive your saving gift and follow your way of humble service. Amen.
Read in context: Understanding Matthew.
Sources Consulted
The linked lexical entry supports the meaning of Christ. The account of Jesus' kingship follows the linked biblical passages.
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