“And a voice came from heaven saying, “You are My beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with You.” – Mark 1:11 (NLT)
In order to become a true disciple of Jesus, one needs to understand who Jesus is. In our key text, Jesus is introduced by His Father, “…You are My beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with You” – Mark 1:11 (NLT). At face value, this seems like a simple, wonderful affirmation. But it is so much more than that.
Three references about Jesus from the Father:
- “You are My Son” is from Psalm 2:7 (NLT): “…He said to Me, “You are My Son; today, I have become Your Father.”
- “Whom ‘I’ love” is linked to Genesis 22:2.
- ‘With You,’ I am fully pleased” is from Isaiah 42:1.
Both Psalm 2 and Isaiah 42 are understood as messianic prophecies. In Psalm 2, God makes a royal proclamation announcing His Son, the King of kings, Who would rule over the whole earth.
In Isaiah 42, God speaks about His “Servant” (also understood to be the Messiah). Paradoxically, God’s Messiah is both King and Servant.
The reference “Whom I love” is likely drawn from Genesis 22, where Abraham is about to offer Isaac out of obedience to God. This account heightens the emphasis on how precious Isaac is to Abraham, foreshadowing the Father’s own feelings for His only Son, Jesus Christ. When Jesus is baptised in Jordan, the Father is saying, ‘Here is My precious Son, My Isaac,’ hinting at the sacrifice He will soon ask of Jesus.
God speaks of Jesus as a King, His Servant, and His Son. Therefore, Jesus is the fulfillment – our Salvation and Redeemer. We are to model His conduct here on earth until He returns.
Remember, even in these troubled times, God is faithful. He cares for you and will bless you if you seek Him even when life is painful.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I hereby acknowledge Jesus as the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies. Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness, Your grace, and Your mercy. Open the eyes of my heart, Lord, to see Jesus the way You see Him, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Read: Daniel 7:13-14; John 18:36
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 7:6-20; Luke 2:1-20; Numbers 5:11-31; Numbers 6
