Christology
Χριστός (Christos)
The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Christos means 'Anointed One' (equivalent to the Hebrew Messiah) and is the root of Christology, the theological study of who Jesus is and what He accomplished.
"For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily." — Colossians 2:9 (KJV)
Key Verses
John 20:31
“But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”Read in context
Hebrews 1:3
“Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.”Read in context
Etymology and Origin
Christos translates the Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah), meaning 'anointed one.' In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed for service. Jesus is the ultimate Anointed One — Prophet, Priest, and King. Christology examines His divine and human natures, His titles, His miracles, His teachings, His atoning death, and His resurrection.
Theological Significance
Christology is the center of Christian theology. The Council of Chalcedon (451 AD) affirmed that Christ is fully God and fully man — two natures in one person, without confusion, change, division, or separation. This definition protects the gospel: only one who is truly God can save, and only one who is truly human can represent humanity.
Practical Application
Christology is not abstract — it shapes worship, prayer, and daily life. Because Jesus is fully God, believers can trust Him completely. Because He is fully human, He understands their struggles. A robust Christology produces deep worship, confident prayer, and resilient faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Christology?
Christology is the branch of theology that studies the person and work of Jesus Christ — His divine and human natures, His titles, His atoning death, resurrection, and ongoing ministry.
Why is Christology important?
Christology matters because everything in Christianity depends on who Jesus is. If He is not truly God, He cannot save. If He is not truly human, He cannot represent humanity. Right understanding of Christ is essential to right faith.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Christology"?
Colossians 2:9 — "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (KJV). It also appears in John 20:31, Hebrews 1:3.
Why does the Greek word behind "Christology" matter?
Christos translates the Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah), meaning 'anointed one.' In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed for service. English uses one word, "Christology", where the Greek Χριστός (Christos) carries the fuller sense: the study of the person and work of jesus christ.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Christology (Χριστός (Christos))
The study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.
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.
Strong's H4899 — Messiah
מָשִׁיחַ (mashiach) • The Anointed One — God's chosen deliverer and king.
Biblical Meaning of the Number 3 in a Dream (KJV)
Divine fullness, resurrection, and confirmation.
Isaiah 11:1-2 — Meaning & Devotional
The Messiah's Spirit
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