What are the Titles of Jesus in the Bible?
Quick Summary
The Bible gives Jesus many titles—each revealing a dimension of who he is and what he came to do. From Messiah, Son of God, and Son of Man to Lamb of God, Good Shepherd, Light of the World, and King of Kings, these titles form a rich portrait of Jesus’ identity and mission. Understanding these titles deepens faith and illuminates the story of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.
Introduction
Jesus is called by many names in Scripture, but his titles carry special weight. These titles arise in moments of revelation, worship, prophecy, or conflict. They come from angels, prophets, disciples, crowds, enemies, and Jesus himself. Each one is a theological claim, a proclamation of identity, and an invitation to see him more clearly.
The titles of Jesus are not just labels. They are testimonies. They reflect centuries of expectation, the hopes of Israel, the mission of God, and the reality of the kingdom Jesus announced. Together, they reveal a Savior who is both humble and exalted, human and divine, servant and king.
Messiah (Christos)
Meaning
Messiah (Hebrew Mashiach) and Christ (Greek Christos) both mean Anointed One.
Significance
Central to Israel’s hope for a promised king.
Affirms Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament expectation.
Key Scriptures
Matthew 16:16
Son of God
Meaning
Expresses Jesus’ unique relationship with the Father.
Significance
Used by angels and disciples.
Key Scriptures
Luke 1:35
Matthew 14:33
Son of Man
Meaning
Jesus’ favorite self-designation.
Significance
Draws from Daniel 7.
Holds together humanity and divine authority.
Key Scriptures
Mark 2:10
Matthew 26:64
Lord (Kyrios)
Meaning
The Greek word Kyrios means Lord.
Significance
Used in the Septuagint for YHWH.
Key Scriptures
Philippians 2:11
Immanuel
Meaning
“God with us.”
Significance
Declares Jesus as the presence of God among people.
Key Scriptures
Matthew 1:23
Good Shepherd
Meaning
A pastoral title revealing care and leadership.
Significance
Reflects Old Testament imagery of God as Shepherd.
Key Scriptures
John 10:11
Light of the World
Meaning
Jesus reveals God’s truth and guidance.
Significance
Symbol of hope and salvation.
Key Scriptures
Bread of Life
Meaning
Jesus as spiritual nourishment.
Significance
Connected to manna in the wilderness.
Key Scriptures
John 6:35
The Word (Logos)
Meaning
Jesus is the eternal Word through whom God creates and speaks.
Significance
Reveals Jesus’ divine preexistence.
Connects creation to salvation.
Key Scriptures
John 1:1
Rabbi (Teacher)
Meaning
A respected Jewish teacher.
Significance
Used by disciples and crowds.
Key Scriptures
John 3:2
Prophet
Meaning
A messenger of God.
Significance
Jesus fulfills and surpasses Old Testament prophets.
Key Scriptures
Deuteronomy 18:15 (fulfilled in Acts 3:22)
High Priest
Meaning
Jesus mediates between God and humanity.
Significance
Central to the book of Hebrews.
Key Scriptures
Hebrews 4:14–16
King of Kings
Meaning
Jesus holds ultimate authority over all rulers.
Significance
Key Scriptures
Revelation 19:16
The Way, the Truth, and the Life
Meaning
A threefold title describing Jesus’ mission.
Significance
Jesus reveals God, leads to God, and brings life.
Key Scriptures
John 14:6
Alpha and Omega
Meaning
The beginning and the end.
Significance
Key Scriptures
Revelation 22:13
True Vine
Meaning
Jesus provides life and connection.
Significance
Expresses ongoing relationship with believers.
Key Scriptures
John 15:1
Savior
Meaning
Jesus rescues from sin and death.
Significance
Central to Christian confession.
Key Scriptures
Luke 2:11
Why These Titles Matter
They reveal Jesus’ identity.
Each title offers a facet of who Jesus is—divine, human, king, shepherd, sacrifice, and Savior.
They connect Old and New Testaments.
Prophetic, royal, and priestly titles link Jesus to Israel’s story.
They shape Christian faith.
These titles influence prayer, worship, and discipleship.
They deepen Scripture reading.
Understanding these titles helps readers grasp the theological depth of the Gospels and letters.
FAQs
Why does Jesus have so many titles?
Different titles reflect different aspects of Jesus’ identity, mission, and relationship with humanity.
Which title is most important?
There is no single answer, though Christ, Lord, and Son of God form the core of Christian confession.
Did Jesus call himself by these titles?
Jesus uses several, especially Son of Man, Son of God, Lord, and Good Shepherd.
Why does Revelation use such dramatic titles?
Revelation portrays Jesus' cosmic role in judgment, redemption, and new creation.
