Christ
Χριστός (Christos)
The Anointed One — the Greek equivalent of Messiah.
Christos is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah), meaning 'Anointed One.' It became so closely identified with Jesus that it functions as both a title and a name: Jesus Christ.
"And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." — Matthew 16:16 (KJV)
Key Verses
Matthew 16:16
“And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”Read in context
Acts 2:36
“Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's G5547 — Christ (Χριστός (Christos))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where Χριστός (Christos) appears.
Open Strong's G5547Etymology and Original Meaning
Christos derives from the Greek verb chriō, meaning 'to anoint.' It directly translates the Hebrew mashiach. In the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), Christos renders every occurrence of mashiach. What began as a title — 'Jesus the Christ' (the Anointed One) — became so inseparable from His identity that 'Christ' effectively became a name.
The Significance of Christ as Title
When Peter declared 'Thou art the Christ' (Matthew 16:16), he was making the most profound theological claim: Jesus is the long-awaited anointed king, priest, and prophet. This was not merely a religious opinion but a kingdom declaration — the rightful king had arrived. Jesus accepted the title but redefined its meaning through suffering and service.
In Christ — The Believer's Identity
Paul's letters use the phrase 'in Christ' over 80 times, describing the believer's new identity and position. To be 'in Christ' means to be united with Him in His death and resurrection, receiving His righteousness, sharing His inheritance, and being empowered by His Spirit. 'If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature' (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Christ's Ongoing Work
Christ is not merely a historical figure but a living, reigning Lord. He intercedes for believers at the Father's right hand (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25). He is building His church (Matthew 16:18). He will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal kingdom (2 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 19:11-16).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christ a name or a title?
Christ (Christos) is originally a title meaning 'Anointed One,' the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew Messiah. Over time it became so identified with Jesus that it functions as both a title and a name.
What does it mean to be 'in Christ'?
Being 'in Christ' means being spiritually united with Jesus — sharing in His death and resurrection, receiving His righteousness, and living in the power of His Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17).
What is the Greek word for "Christ" in the Bible?
Χριστός (Christos), pronounced "khris-TOS." It means the anointed one — the greek equivalent of messiah. Its Strong's number is G5547. It is the word behind "Christ" in the New Testament, for example in Matthew 16:16.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Christ"?
Matthew 16:16 — "And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" (KJV). It also appears in Acts 2:36, Colossians 1:27.
Related Words
Related Reading
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Christ (Χριστός (Christos))
The Anointed One — the Greek equivalent of Messiah.
Strong's G5547 — Christ
Χριστός (Christos) • The Anointed One — the Greek equivalent of Messiah.
Isaiah 61:1-2 — Meaning & Devotional
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Provision, stewardship, and the pull of the heart.
Biblical Meaning of Seeing Dead Relatives in a Dream (KJV)
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Christology (Χριστός (Christos))
The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
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