Jesus Said He Only Acts Upon The Father

Jesus Said He Only Acts Upon the Father: Exploring the Trinity and Divine Authority

The statement, "Jesus only acts upon the Father's will," is a cornerstone of Christian theology, reflecting the intricate relationship within the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This concept, though seemingly simple, unfolds into profound implications for understanding Jesus's nature, his ministry, and the very essence of Christian faith. This article delves into the scriptural basis for this statement, exploring its meaning and its relevance to modern believers.

Understanding the Scriptural Basis

The idea of Jesus acting solely on the Father's will isn't explicitly stated as a single, concise sentence in the Bible. Instead, it's a theme woven throughout the Gospels and the epistles. Several passages highlight this dependence and submission:

• John 5:19: "Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does." This verse directly asserts Jesus's reliance on the Father for his actions. It emphasizes not a lack of power, but a deliberate submission to the Father's divine plan.

• John 6:38: "For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me." This passage clearly distinguishes Jesus's will from the Father's, showcasing his complete obedience to the Father's purpose. His earthly ministry was not about self-aggrandizement, but about fulfilling the Father's divine mission.

• John 8:28: "So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me.” This passage links Jesus's actions to the Father's teachings, reinforcing the idea of divine guidance and instruction.

• Matthew 26:39: "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." This powerful prayer in Gethsemane epitomizes Jesus's complete submission to the Father's will, even in the face of immense suffering. This isn't weakness, but an unparalleled act of obedience and love.

The Implications of Jesus's Subordination

The concept of Jesus acting only upon the Father's will has several significant implications:

• The Unity of the Trinity: This highlights the perfect unity and harmony within the Godhead. The Son's actions demonstrate the complete agreement and cooperation between the Father and the Son.

• Jesus's Humanity and Divinity: This demonstrates the perfect balance of Jesus's human and divine natures. While fully God, he chose to humbly submit to the Father's will, showcasing his perfect obedience and humanity.

• The Model for Christian Life: Jesus's example calls Christians to a life of submission to God's will. It's a call to surrender our own desires and ambitions to follow God's plan for our lives.

• Understanding God's Sovereignty: This emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and control over all things. Jesus's actions are a manifestation of God's perfect plan unfolding in history.

Conclusion: A Life of Obedience

The statement, "Jesus only acts upon the Father's will," is not a statement of weakness or limitation, but rather a profound declaration of love, obedience, and the perfect unity within the Trinity. It serves as a powerful example for believers, urging us to live lives characterized by humility, submission, and a faithful following of God's divine plan for our lives. This understanding deepens our appreciation for the sacrifice of Jesus and strengthens our commitment to living a life that pleases God. It's a call to action, challenging us to align our wills with the Father's, trusting in his perfect plan for our lives, just as Jesus did.