The Exclusive Mediator—Christ Alone (Chapter 8, Paragraph 7)

“Christ, in the work of mediation, acteth according to both natures…”

Christ did not set aside either His deity or His humanity in redemption. He acts as one Person with two distinct but united natures. His divine nature gives His work infinite value; His human nature enables Him to suffer, obey, and die in our place.

“…by each nature doing that which is proper to itself…”

In this hypostatic union, the divine nature does what is divine (e.g., raising the dead), and the human nature does what is human (e.g., suffering, dying). These are not confused but perfectly coordinated in the one Mediator.

“…yet by reason of the unity of the Person…”

Though Christ has two natures, they are not divided. The Person of Christ is one—eternally the Son of God. This unity ensures that all He does—whether in divine power or human weakness—is done as one Mediator.

“…that which is proper to one nature is sometimes in Scripture attributed to the Person denominated by the other nature.”

This theological principle is known as the communication of properties. For example, Acts 20:28 speaks of “the blood of God”—a statement that, while shocking, reflects the unity of Christ’s Person. God cannot bleed, but the Person who is God bled according to His human nature.

“To all those for whom Christ hath obtained eternal redemption…”

This recalls the electing love of God and the particular redemption accomplished by Christ. His mediation is effectual—He intercedes not in vain but for those whom the Father has given Him.

“…He doth certainly and effectually apply and communicate the same…”

Christ not only accomplished redemption—He applies it through the work of the Holy Spirit. This guarantees that none for whom He died will remain in unbelief.

“…making intercession for them…”

Romans 8:34 reminds us that Christ “is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” His intercession is ongoing, priestly, and loving.

“…uniting them to Himself by His Spirit…”

This is the wonder of union with Christ—a spiritual, vital connection formed by the indwelling Spirit. It is not a mere association, but a real and living bond.

“…revealing unto them, in and by the Word, the mystery of salvation…”

The Spirit applies Christ’s work by illuminating the Word. Faith does not arise from imagination but from the hearing of the gospel. Salvation is revealed, not invented.

“…persuading them to believe and obey…”

This line teaches the efficacy of grace. The Spirit does not merely offer or suggest—He persuades. He overcomes resistance and draws the heart to Christ in joyful submission.

“…governing their hearts by His Word and Spirit…”

Christ rules not just outwardly but inwardly. His Lordship extends to the affections, thoughts, and choices of the believer.

“…and overcoming all their enemies by His almighty power and wisdom…”

Here we see the Kingly office of Christ in action. He defeats sin, Satan, and death—not just at the cross, but in our daily lives. He is our victorious Mediator.

“…in such manner and ways as are most consonant to His wonderful and unsearchable dispensation.”

Christ applies redemption in ways perfectly suited to His wisdom. We may not always understand His methods, but we can trust His purpose and timing.

Application for the Believer:

Trust in Christ alone as your Mediator. No priest, saint, or religious system can bring you to God. Only Jesus—fully God and fully man—can reconcile you to the Father. Take heart: He is not a passive Savior but an active, interceding, reigning Lord. He governs your heart, defends your soul, and reveals truth to you by His Spirit. Rest in Him, submit to His Word, and rejoice in your unbreakable union with the only Mediator who can never fail. Your salvation is not in your grip on Christ, but in His eternal grip on you.