Jesus Christ, a man for others and with others

Abstract

This article focuses on an important aspect of the Son of God and redeemer of humanity, who became man in the incarnation. The study delves into the human dimension of Jesus Christ as a man for others and with others. His closeness to fellow men and women is striking. This closeness is accomplished through his pedagogical method by means of the stories (parables) he vividly narrated, as well as through the miracles he astonishingly carried out to help or heal others. Both parables and miracles lie at the basis of his proclamation of the Kingdom of God. Jesus was particularly close to those who were at the fringes of society. Jesus’ social behaviour is also highlighted, with special reference to his especially unique style of table fellowship, going counter to the strict norms of his people. The climax of his being for others and with others is reached in his paschal mystery, namely his total self-offering in his passion, death and resurrection from the dead.