By Elimu Assistant Team 
THE CONCEPT OF THE MESSIAH IN THE NEW TESTAMENT (LUKE 1:26 – 38, 2:1 – 23, 23:1 – 35, 24:50 – 51)
‘Messiah’ is a Hebrew word meaning the ‘anointed one’. In Greek it is Khristos.
Jewish expectations of the Messiah were as follows:
- He would be a ruler from David’s line who would conquer and overthrow Roman rule.
- He would be stationed in Jerusalem and other nations of the world would pay homage to him/appear in Jerusalem full of glory.
- He would be a perfect ruler through whom they would receive God’s blessings, joy, and peace. No more suffering and death.
- He would bring judgment to all the enemies of Israel.
- He would be a ruler without sin and would not associate with the poor, sinners, and non-Jews/gentiles.
- The Messiah would strictly follow the Law of Moses/ uphold Mosaic Law.
- He would conquer the enemies of Israel as a military ruler.
- He would avenge Israelite enemies.
- He was born into a royal family.
- He would lead Israel into economic/political prosperity.
- He would come after the return of Elijah.
- He would perform miracles and mighty deeds.
Expected Response in Summary
Describe the concept of the Messiah in the New Testament.
- He is from the lineage of David
- His kingdom is expected to last forever
- Spiritual ruler
- He is the servant of God
- Brought/ushered in the Kingdom of God
- Regarded as savior
- Known as Emmanuel
- Born in Bethlehem
- Born of a virgin
- Performed miracles
- Was the son of God
- Was crucified for sinners
