Many people know the name “Jesus Christ,” but fewer know what “Christ” really means. It’s not Jesus' last name. Instead, it’s a powerful title filled with purpose, promise, and prophecy. Understanding what “Christ” means helps us better understand who Jesus is—and why He matters so much.
What Does “Christ” Mean?
The word “Christ” comes from the Greek word Christos, which means “Anointed One.” It’s the same as the Hebrew word Mashiach (or Messiah). Both terms point to someone chosen and set apart by God to carry out a special mission.
He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated, the Christ). — John 1:41
In the Old Testament, kings, prophets, and priests were anointed with oil to show they were chosen by God (1 Samuel 16:13). But the Messiah was more than just a leader. He was the One promised to save the world.
Jesus Is the Christ
Jesus didn’t just carry the title of Christ—He fulfilled it. From the beginning, God promised to send a Savior. Jesus is that Savior, the Christ who would bring peace, healing, and eternal life.
The woman said to Him, ‘I know that Messiah is coming’ (who is called Christ). ‘When He comes, He will tell us all things.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I who speak to you am He.’ — John 4:25–26
When Peter declared that Jesus is the Christ, Jesus blessed him for understanding such a deep truth.
Simon Peter answered and said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’ — Matthew 16:16
The Role of the Christ
The title “Christ” tells us about Jesus’ mission. He was chosen by God to:
- Save people from sin
- Fulfill prophecy
- Reconcile us to God
- Rule as King forever
But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. — John 20:31
Jesus didn’t just come to teach or to heal. He came to die for our sins, rise again, and bring us into God’s family.
Why “Christ” Still Matters Today
Knowing that Jesus is the Christ changes everything. It means:
- He is God’s promised Savior
- His words and actions carry eternal authority
- We can trust Him with our lives
Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. — 1 John 5:1
Summary Table: Meaning of “Christ”
| Aspect | Explanation | Bible Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Title Meaning | Christ = Anointed One / Messiah | John 1:41 |
| Jesus' Identity | Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God | Matthew 16:16 |
| Fulfillment of Prophecy | Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament promises | John 4:25–26 |
| Savior and King | Came to save and reign forever | John 20:31 |
| Personal Impact | Believing in Christ brings new life | 1 John 5:1 |
Related Bible Verses
The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor... — Luke 4:18
To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. — Colossians 1:27
And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. — Colossians 1:17
In Short
“Christ” isn’t just a name—it’s a title packed with meaning. It reminds us that Jesus was chosen by God, set apart, and sent to save. When we say “Jesus Christ,” we’re not just saying who He is. We’re declaring what He’s done and what He continues to do in our lives.
