Get Your Pretense On!

Chapter 5: Represent Strong! • 107

Actually, they both represent a principle which lies at the core of our understanding of what it means to live as an ambassador of Jesus Christ. I have studied this principle for a number of years, and I have given it the name of “ Leadership as Representation .” The principle of representation, in my judgment, is the clearest way to comprehend the meaning of our Lord’s ministry as Messiah and Lord, the Suffering Servant of Yahweh who came to fulfill his Father’s mandate to redeem humankind and restore the universe under the reign of God. The central theological meaning of the Messiah is to be the anointed one, the one chosen and elect by God, precious and unique, to accomplish God’s will in revelation and redemption. Look at the concept of God’s election in this sampling of prophesies related to the Messiah: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. [7] Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. ~ Isaiah 9.6-7 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. ~ Micah 5.2 The LORD says to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.” [2] The LORD sends forth from Zion your mighty scepter. Rule in the midst of your enemies!

~ Psalm 110.1-2