The question of where Jesus refers to Himself as "Lord" in the Bible is a fascinating and profound one, touching upon the very heart of Christology—the study of the nature and work of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus’ use of the title "Lord" is both direct and indirect, revealing His divine identity and authority. To understand this fully, we must explore various passages where Jesus either explicitly or implicitly claims this title, and also consider the broader context in which these claims are made.
One of the most direct references can be found in the Gospel of John. In John 13:13, Jesus says to His disciples, "You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am." Here, Jesus acknowledges the titles given to Him by His followers and affirms their correctness. This statement is significant because it comes during the Last Supper, a moment of deep intimacy and revelation between Jesus and His disciples. By accepting the title of "Lord," Jesus is not only affirming His authority but also aligning Himself with the divine identity that this title implies.
Another profound instance is found in the Gospel of Matthew. In Matthew 7:21-23, Jesus speaks about the final judgment, saying, "Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’" This passage is striking because Jesus not only accepts the title of "Lord" but also places Himself in the position of the ultimate judge, a role reserved for God alone. By doing so, He implicitly claims a divine prerogative and underscores His unique authority.
In the Gospel of Luke, we find another significant moment in Luke 6:46 where Jesus asks, "Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?" This rhetorical question challenges His listeners to consider the implications of calling Him "Lord." It is not merely a title of respect but one that demands obedience and submission to His teachings, further emphasizing His authority and divine role.
The Gospel of John also provides a deeply theological insight into Jesus’ self-identification as Lord through His "I am" statements. In John 8:58, Jesus declares, "Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!" This statement echoes the divine name revealed to Moses in the burning bush (Exodus 3:14), where God declares Himself as "I AM WHO I AM." By using this phrase, Jesus is identifying Himself with the eternal, self-existent God of Israel, thereby asserting His divinity and lordship.
Furthermore, the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus provide additional evidence of His lordship. In John 20:28, when the risen Jesus appears to Thomas, the disciple exclaims, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus does not correct Thomas but accepts this worshipful declaration, thereby affirming His identity as both Lord and God. This moment is pivotal as it highlights the recognition of Jesus’ divine status by His followers after His resurrection.
The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, also reinforces the understanding of Jesus as Lord. In Philippians 2:9-11, Paul writes, "Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This passage not only underscores Jesus’ exalted status but also connects His lordship with universal recognition and worship, fulfilling the prophetic vision of Isaiah 45:23.
Moreover, in 1 Corinthians 12:3, Paul states, "Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, ‘Jesus be cursed,’ and no one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit." This highlights that the confession of Jesus as Lord is a fundamental aspect of Christian faith, inspired by the Holy Spirit.
The book of Revelation also provides a compelling portrayal of Jesus as Lord. In Revelation 17:14, Jesus is referred to as "Lord of lords and King of kings," a title that signifies supreme authority and dominion over all creation. This apocalyptic vision reinforces the ultimate sovereignty of Jesus and His divine kingship.
In addition to these New Testament references, it is important to consider the broader biblical context in which Jesus’ lordship is understood. The Old Testament frequently uses the term "Lord" (YHWH) to refer to God, emphasizing His covenantal relationship with Israel and His sovereign rule over all creation. By applying this title to Jesus, the New Testament writers and Jesus Himself are making a profound theological statement about His divine identity and mission.
The early Christian community clearly understood and proclaimed Jesus as Lord. This is evident in the early Christian creeds and hymns, such as the one found in Philippians 2:6-11, which celebrates Jesus’ incarnation, humility, and exaltation. The recognition of Jesus as Lord was central to the faith and worship of the early church, shaping its theology and practice.
In conclusion, the New Testament provides multiple instances where Jesus refers to Himself as Lord, both directly and indirectly. These references are deeply intertwined with His teachings, actions, and the broader biblical narrative. By affirming His lordship, Jesus reveals His divine identity and authority, calling His followers to a relationship of faith, obedience, and worship. This profound truth continues to be a cornerstone of Christian belief, inviting believers to acknowledge and proclaim Jesus as Lord in their own lives and communities.
