In the New Testament, Lord is the most frequently used title for Jesus Christ. Although we rarely use this term in our daily lives, we are all quite familiar with another word: boss. That is basically what Lord means—one possessing authority, power, and control. The Word of God describes Jesus as the head of the church, the ruler over all creation, and the Lord of lords and King of kings (Col. 1:15-18; Rev. 3:14, 17:14).
Jesus is Lord: Scripture Meaning
Following the resurrection, the term “Lord,” being applied to Jesus, became more than an indication of devotion or respect. Stating, “Jesus is Lord,” became a way of recognizing Jesus’ divine standing.
References of Jesus as Lord started with Thomas’ declaration when Jesus arrived at the apostles after His resurrection: “Thomas said to him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” (John 20:28). From thereafter, the message of the Apostles was that Jesus is Lord, signifying that “Jesus is God.”
Peter’s sermon on the Day of Pentecost carried that idea: “Let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah” (Acts 2:36). Peter later declared this in the house of Cornelius, stating that Jesus is “Lord of all” (Acts 10:36). It is important to note that in Romans 10:9 Jesus’ lordship is connected to His resurrection: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
The declaration “Jesus is Lord” indicates that Jesus is God. Jesus holds “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18). He is “Lord of the Sabbath” (Luke 6:5); “our only Sovereign and Lord” (Jude 1:4); and “the Lord of lords” (Revelation 17:14).
What Makes Jesus a "Lord"?
The realm of Christ’s reign covers everything that happens in heaven and on the earth. No one—not even those who deny His existence—can be free of His rule or outside His sphere of authority. Although Satan tries to convince us that liberty is found in doing what we want, true freedom is acquired only through submission to Christ’s loving lordship.
Even death cannot release anyone from the authority of God’s Son. He is Lord of both the living and the dead. All people must decide to either yield or rebel against Him, but they have the opportunity to make this choice only while they are still living. After death, they will acknowledge Christ’s lordship through accountability to Him. If we have not bowed the knee to Jesus in life, we will be forced to bend it in the judgment.
Have you submitted to Christ’s rule over your life? His authority causes anger or fear in individuals who have not yet yielded to Him, but those who have experienced His loving kindness trusted in His goodness and surrendered to His authority take comfort in knowing Him as the Lord of their lives.
Taken from “Lord of the Living and the Dead” from In Touch Ministries (used by permission).
Did Jesus Refer to Himself as "Lord"?
Jesus referred to Himself as Lord multiple times in the Bible, and these instances are powerful and deeply personal.
One notable instance is in John 13:13, where Jesus says, "You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am." Here, Jesus acknowledges His identity as Lord, confirming the respect and authority He holds.
Another profound moment is in Luke 6:46, where Jesus challenges His followers by asking, "Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?" This highlights the importance of not only recognizing Jesus as Lord but also following His teachings.
In Matthew 7:21, Jesus emphasizes the significance of genuinely knowing Him: "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." This verse underscores that calling Jesus "Lord" goes beyond words—it's about living in alignment with God's will.
These references show that Jesus clearly identified Himself as Lord, inviting us to recognize His authority and to live our lives accordingly. It's a personal invitation to follow Him and trust in His lordship in every aspect of our lives.
Is Jesus Your Lord?
Saying "Jesus is Lord" is a powerful declaration that can transform our lives in profound ways. When we acknowledge Jesus as Lord, we are recognizing His supreme authority over everything in our lives. It's a personal commitment to follow Him, trust in His guidance, and live according to His teachings.
When we call Jesus our Lord, it means we prioritize His will over our own desires. In practical terms, this changes how we make decisions, interact with others, and view our purpose in life. For example, instead of pursuing selfish ambitions, we seek to serve others and spread love and kindness, reflecting Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 22:37-39, where He commands us to love God and our neighbors.
Recognizing Jesus as Lord also brings a sense of peace and assurance. We understand that we are not alone in our struggles; we have a compassionate and powerful leader who guides and supports us. In John 14:27, Jesus promises, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." This assurance helps us face challenges with confidence and hope.
Moreover, declaring Jesus as Lord means committing to a life of continuous growth and transformation. It means allowing His teachings to shape our character, values, and actions. As Paul writes in Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
In summary, when we say Jesus is Lord, we are not just making a statement of belief but embracing a way of life that prioritizes His authority, seeks to serve and love others, and relies on His peace and guidance. It’s a journey of becoming more like Him, living out His love and truth in our everyday actions.
