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What does it mean to confess that Jesus is Master? This is the question that the apostle Paul addresses in his letter to the Philippians, a church that he founded and loved. In chapter 2, he urges them to have the same attitude as Christ, who humbled himself and became obedient to death on a cross. He then declares that God exalted Christ and gave him the highest name and authority, so that everyone will acknowledge his lordship.

For this reason God highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow— in heaven and on earth and under the earth— and every tongue will confess that Jesus the Messiah is Master, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9–11 (CSB)

The word that Paul uses for Master is kurios, which means lord, ruler, or owner. It was a common title for human authorities, such as kings, governors, or masters of slaves. But it was also used in the Greek translation of the Old Testament to refer to God, the sovereign Creator and Ruler of all things. By calling Jesus kurios, Paul is affirming that Jesus is not only a human being, but also God himself, the one who has all power and rights over everything and everyone.

But what does it mean to confess that Jesus is Master? It is not just a verbal statement or a mental agreement. It is a personal and public declaration of allegiance, loyalty, and submission. It is a recognition of who Jesus is and what he has done for us, and a response of gratitude, love, and obedience. It is a commitment to follow him as our leader, teacher, and example. It is a surrender of our will, our plans, and our possessions to his will, his purposes, and his glory.

To confess that Jesus is Master is not something that we do once and forget. It is something that we do every day, in every situation, with every decision. It is something that we do with joy and reverence, knowing that he is worthy of all honor and praise. It is something that we do with hope and confidence, knowing that he is with us and for us. It is something that we do with humility and courage, knowing that he will help us and empower us.

To confess that Jesus is Master is the most important thing that we can do in this life. It is the only way to be saved from our sins and to receive eternal life. It is the only way to experience true peace and joy. It is the only way to fulfill our purpose and destiny. It is the only way to glorify God and enjoy him forever.

  • Acts 3:13 (CSB) — 13 The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the God of our ancestors, has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you handed over and denied before Pilate, though he had decided to release him.
  • Isaiah 52:13 (CSB) — 13 See, my servant will be successful; he will be raised and lifted up and greatly exalted.
  • Acts 3:26 (CSB) — 26 God raised up his servant and sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your evil ways.”