What Did Jesus Come for and for Whom?

Jesus’ mission and the scope of His redemption have long been subjects of profound theological inquiry. Understanding His purpose and the beneficiaries of His sacrifice provides a rich tapestry of Christian doctrine and faith.

Introduction to Adam's Fall

Adam, the first man, was created perfect and without sin, inheriting the potential for eternal life. However, his disobedience to God's command led to the loss of this righteousness, introducing sin and death into the world (Romans 5:12). This imperfection was passed down through generations, leaving humanity in a state of hopelessness and sin.

The Compassionate Plan of God

Desiring to save Adam’s descendants from their destined fate, God extended His loving and redeeming hand. As it is written, “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Jesus as the Ransom

Jesus came as a ransom to reclaim what Adam lost. Like the prophet James, He died for all mankind, but salvation is contingent upon faith. The blood of bulls and goats were inadequate to cleanse humans from sin; therefore, God instituted a new covenant through the blood of His Son (Hebrews 8:7–13).

The Specific Mission to Israel

Yeshua/Jesus emphasized His mission to the lost sheep of Israel, fulfilling God's promise to Eve (Genesis 3:15) and Abraham (Genesis 22:18). He came to die for mankind, redeeming them with His sinless blood so that Satan would have no hold over those who accepted His ultimate sacrifice.

The New Covenant and the Promise to Gentiles

The first covenant given to Israel at Mount Sinai was not faultless and thus needed to be replaced by the better covenant of the New Testament. This new covenant, founded in Hebrews 10:16, writes God's laws in the hearts and minds of believers, enabling them to live according to His divine spirit (Hebrews 8:10). The ministry to the Gentiles was a hidden secret, crucial to the fulfillment of God's plan. If Satan had known about this, he would have preferred that Jesus not be crucified and live forever (Galatians 3:29).

In conclusion, Jesus came to reconcile humanity to God, first through the lost sheep of Israel, and then extending His redeeming grace to all mankind through the new covenant, with particular emphasis on faith as the means of salvation. This mission was not merely a promise for Israel, but a path to eternal life for all who would believe.