The concept of Mediator in Christianity
In Vaishnavism, the term "Mediator" signifies an individual who functions as an intermediary in resolving conflicts, illustrated by a servant's efforts to facilitate reconciliation. Conversely, in Mahayana Buddhism, "Mediator" refers to a transitional state or condition that enables the flow of thoughts and experiences. Both interpretations emphasize the importance of mediation in fostering understanding and resolving differences, albeit in different contexts.
Synonyms: Arbitrator, Intermediary, Conciliator, Go-between, Diplomat, Peacemaker, Broker, Intercessor
In Finnish: ³Õä±ô¾±³Ù³ÙäÂáä; In Dutch: Bemiddelaar; In German: Vermittler; In Spanish: Mediador; In Malay: Pengantara; In Swedish: Medlare; In French: ²Ñé»å¾±²¹³Ù±ð³Ü°ù
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Mediator'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This describes the role of Christ as a bridge between the divine and humanity, facilitating a connection and reconciliation between the two.[1] (2) This executes the Father’s will, for this is the Word, who is common to both—the Son of God, the Saviour of men; His Servant, our Teacher.[2] (3) This is the designation for Jesus, positioned between God and man, holding the deposit of flesh as a pledge of its complete perfection and restoration.[3] (4) This refers to an intermediate being between God and created things, who is described as the first-born of every creature.[4] (5) The text states that, being God, He took upon Him flesh to become a mediator between God and man, so that He might lead man to God.[5]
From: The city of God
(1) Mediator is a being needed to remove the difficulty of humans' unlikeness to God, who is united to humans through the mortality of His body and provides divine help.[6] (2) The Mediator is the Man Christ Jesus, through whom regeneration confers upon us the grace of pardon and life eternal.[7] (3) This is the man Christ Jesus and the only way that is secured against all mistakes, because the same person is at once God and man.[8] (4) The text refers to the Mediator as the one through whom we are reconciled to God, highlighting a key figure in the relationship between God and humanity.[9]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) This is mentioned in the context of faith, suggesting that, besides the law, another help from God was available to man, which was faith in the Mediator.[10] (2) The role of a priest as an intermediary between God and the people, responsible for offering prayers, sacrifices, and oblations.[11]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) Refers to Christ's role in reconciling humanity with God, a term notably used by Paul and the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews.[12] (2) 'Mediator' is a term used in Scripture to denote one who intervenes between two dispensations, applied to figures like John the Baptist who came between the Mosaic and Christian dispensations.[13]
From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository
(1) One coming between two parties to remove their differences, exemplified by Jesus Christ as the mediator between God and man, enabling direct communion without separation.[14]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) The term, derived from the Greek word 'mesitçs', is utilized in the New Testament to denote an individual who serves as a bridge between God and humanity, particularly Christ.[15]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) This refers to the one who stands between God and humanity, and is a central figure within the narrative.[16]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) The Mediator refers to the Second Person, who is both God and man, bridging the gap between mortal sinners and the immortal righteous One.[17] (2) Reference to Christ's role in facilitating and making worship acceptable by infusing it with spiritual grace.[18] (3) The person appointed by God to bridge the gap between humanity and Himself, allowing for reconciliation and redemption.[19]
From: The Second Helvetic Confession
(1) This is Christ, and the text suggests that God and Christ are sufficient for followers, and no others should be honored.[20]