The Church of the saints - The Intercession And Mediation of Christ

The Church of the saints (2)

‘The Intercession And Mediation of Christ’

 

Mark: Let's start with your first question.

 

Thomas: I don't really have an issue with this point specifically. I don't think we disagree on it. I'm not opposed to the intercession of Christ. I object to the intercession of humans, especially the deceased (or saints).

 

Mark:  Let's be patient and take it step by step, instead of jumping from one extreme to another! By the way, we don't disagree as much as you think, and I'll show you. Do you agree that Christ is a mediator?

 

Thomas: Yes, of course. "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5).

 

Mark: Also, "Therefore, he is the mediator of a new covenant" (Hebrews 9:15) and "to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant" (Hebrews 12:24).

 

Thomas: Alright.

 

Mark: And do you agree that Christ is an intercessor?

 

Thomas: Is there a difference between mediation and intercession?

 

Mark: What's your opinion?

 

Thomas:  I understand that they are the same. You intercede for me with a manager (for example), just as you mediate for me.

 

Mark: You're right. But, speaking theologically and about profound mysteries like the Incarnation, we need a bit of precision in the differences between these terms.

 

Thomas: Explain more. Is there a difference between a mediator and an intercessor?

 

Mark: Yes. A mediator (Mediator in Greek: μεσιτεύω) is a neutral person standing between two parties, helping to settle a dispute between them. Note that a mediator is neutral, not a party in the conflict. We agree that the term mediator here only applies to Christ. He is the only one who unites in his being both divinity and humanity in his divine incarnate person. Also, he was without sin. Therefore, he is the only neutral mediator who can reconcile the world to himself (as a human) and to God (as divine) (2 Corinthians 5:19).

 

Thomas: Alright. How does this meaning differ from that of an intercessor?

 

Mark: No, the meaning is definitely different, although there is some similarity and connection. Intercession (like many other meanings in Arabic, such as assistance, addition, and association) is when I request on behalf of someone in need or in place of someone. In the New Testament, there are three Greek words carrying the meaning of intercession. These words are:

 

Parakletos and Parakleton (παράκλησις, -εως, ἡ) means to intercede, advocate, plead, support, and assist.

 

Entynkhani (ἐντυγχάνει) means to implore, beseech, seek, and plead.

 

Presvia (πρεσβεία, ας, ἡ) originally means embassy (from which the word presbyteros, meaning elder or priest, is derived). When Apostle Paul said "ambassador in chains," he used the word presvitees. Over time, the use of the word evolved to include the intercessory meaning, or asking on behalf of someone.

 

Thomas: So, the word "mediator" means a neutral person standing between two parties, without being a party in the conflict. And the word "intercessor" means to request, advocate, or implore on behalf of someone, or in their stead. Is that correct?

 

Mark:  Spot on!

 

Thomas:  Got it. I'm starting to understand your point, but still continue explaining please…

 

Mark: Christ is the Mediator, and He is the only Mediator for the following reasons:

o   He is without sin (neutral, not a party in the conflict).

o   He is the only one who unites the divine and human natures (neutral in between).

Thomas: Agreed.

Mark: Christ is also an Intercessor, advocating for us (1 John 2:1), praying for us (John 17), and assisting us in our trials (Hebrews 2:18). Are we still on the same page?

Thomas: Yep.

Mark:  Great! As long as we understand the difference between "mediator" and "intercessor," we can comprehend that Christ is the unique Mediator, but it doesn't mean He is the only Intercessor. There can be other intercessors, as indicated by the command to pray for one another, "Pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16).

Thomas: I understand now. There is a difference between a Mediator and an Intercessor. There is only one Mediator, but there can be multiple Intercessors. However, I'm curious, why should you pray for me if Christ Himself intercedes? And the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, helps me and prays for me.

Mark: It's a good and bold question in its place. The command here is explicit (that we should pray for each other). So, the question, most importantly, is why intercede? If the Son, the Holy Spirit, and even the Father Himself loves you (John 16:27), then will our prayers for each other make a difference?

Thomas: Exactly. That's my question.

Mark:  Alright. Let's make a cup of tea and address the second point in our topic. Why intercession? Doesn't Christ intercede for us?

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