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One Person, Two Natures
The eternal Son of God became man for the salvation of sinners. He remains one divine person, truly God and truly man.
John tells us that the Word was God and that the Word was made flesh (John 1:1 (opens in a new tab), 14). The Son took a true human body and a reasonable human soul. He was conceived by the Holy Ghost and born of the virgin Mary, without sin (Luke 1:35 (opens in a new tab), Hebrews 4:15 (opens in a new tab)). He didn't cease to be God when he became man.
The original Westminster Confession 8.2 (opens in a new tab) teaches that the two complete natures are joined in one person without conversion, composition, or confusion. Jesus grew tired, hungry, and sorrowful according to his human nature. He upheld all things by the word of his power according to his divine nature (Hebrews 1:3 (opens in a new tab)). We mustn't divide the Savior into two persons or blend his natures into something less than either.
Our Prophet, Priest, and King
The Larger Catechism explains Christ's three offices in WLC 42-45 (opens in a new tab). As Prophet he reveals God's will for salvation by his Word and Spirit. As Priest he offered himself once to satisfy divine justice and now intercedes for his people. As King he calls, rules, defends, and preserves them, subduing his and their enemies.
Christ's offices meet our actual needs. We're ignorant and need the Prophet's Word. We're guilty and need the Priest's sacrifice. We're helpless under sin and need the King's government. Every office belongs to the one Lord Jesus Christ, who alone mediates between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5 (opens in a new tab)).
His Obedience and His Sacrifice
Jesus obeyed his Father through the whole course of his earthly life. He endured temptation without sin, suffered, and submitted even to death on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8 (opens in a new tab)). The Confession says he fully satisfied his Father's justice and purchased an everlasting inheritance for those given to him (WCF 8.4-5 (opens in a new tab)).
Christ did not die as a helpless victim. He laid down his life willingly (John 10:17-18 (opens in a new tab)). His sacrifice was sufficient. It will never be repeated. The gospel therefore offers sinners a Savior whose work has been accomplished.
Risen, Ascended, and Reigning
The third day Christ rose bodily. He ascended and sits at his Father's right hand. He makes intercession for his people and will return to judge the world (Acts 1:9-11 (opens in a new tab), Hebrews 7:25 (opens in a new tab), Acts 17:31 (opens in a new tab)). Our Mediator is alive. His human nature wasn't discarded after the resurrection.
Westminster Confession 8.8 (opens in a new tab) teaches that Christ certainly and effectually applies redemption to all for whom he purchased it. He calls them by his Word and Spirit and brings them to himself. This truth gives confidence to preaching and prayer, while the gospel is offered freely to every hearer.
Why This Matters
When conscience accuses you, look to the Priest who has offered himself for sins. When you need to know the truth, listen to the Prophet in Scripture. When sin presses hard, obey the King who has broken its dominion. Come to Christ as he is revealed in the gospel. Read The Gospel, Justification, and Union With Christ next.
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