MESSIAH A word that represents the Hebrew mashiah, the Aramaic meshiha, and the Greek Messias. "Messias" (John 1:41, 4:25 KJV) is a transcription of the Greek word.

The basic meaning of the word is "anointed one."

"Christ" is the English form of the Greek Christos, which means "anointed."

The Septuagint uses Christos 40 times to translate the Hebrew mashiah.

In ancient Israel both persons and things consecrated to sacred purposes were anointed by having oil poured over them.

In the OT the primary significance of the expression "the Lord's anointed" refers to the earthly king who is reigning over the Lord's people.

The Israelites did not think of crowning a king but of anointing him when he was enthroned. The fact that he was anointed was the essential characteristic of the ruler.

The essential features of the OT picture of the Messiah are in the person of Jesus.

The suffering, dying, and glorified Servant of the Lord of the OT is that same NT Son of Man who will return on the clouds of heaven.

The Messiah, as the Son of Man, will suffer, die, and rise again on the third day, "according to the Scriptures."

But even though Jesus was victorious over death in his resurrection and ascension, he did not yet reign in his full messiahship in his righteous kingdom.

His ultimate victory is revealed to be in the future, and consequently he must come again in power to establish his messianic throne and kingdom.

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