What Is Lordship?

The following series is based on a book written by Dr. Jeremy Ballard, “The Lordship of Jesus Christ.” The book is available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback & eBook) and Google Play (eBook). Every purchase helps to support Jesus Home Ministries and the work they are doing.

Understanding the term “lord” is essential to recognizing why Jesus Christ must be the Lord of our lives. A lord is someone with authority and control, and spiritually, it refers to a supreme ruler. Declaring Jesus as Lord is more than a religious act—it’s a commitment to surrender to His authority and trust Him to guide and sustain us.

The Hebrew Perspective

Adon (אָדוֹן): Adon refers to one who has authority, often used for earthly rulers and, at times, for God. It emphasizes both authority and care, as seen in Psalm 97:5, where God is referred to as Adon, a protector and provider for His people.

Adonai (אֲדוֹנָי): A title for God, Adonai signifies reverence and His supremacy. For example, Deuteronomy 10:17 calls Him “Lord of Lords,” highlighting His unmatched authority and greatness.

Yhvh (יְהוָֹה): Known as Yahweh, this is God’s personal name revealed in Exodus 3:14: “I AM WHO I AM.” It signifies His eternal, self-existent nature and covenantal faithfulness.

The Greek Perspective

Megistan (μεγιστάν): This term refers to earthly authority figures, comparable to Adon. It highlights the concept of authority within human structures, but it is never used for God.

Despotes (δεσπότης): Despotes means master or lord and reflects benevolent authority, as seen in Luke 2:29 when Simeon calls God “Lord,” expressing trust in His faithfulness.

Kurios (κύριος): The most common Greek term for “lord,” Kurios is used for Jesus in the New Testament to affirm His divine authority. Revelation 22:20 declares, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus,” underscoring His role as the returning King.

Application

Acknowledging Jesus as Lord means recognizing His authority, trusting His care, and living in obedience to Him. This surrender transforms our faith from belief into action, aligning every area of life under His lordship.

Understanding the biblical concept of lordship deepens our commitment to Jesus. His role as our Lord invites us to trust, follow, and worship Him fully.

Join me next time as we explore why Jesus is Lord because He is God, revealing the divine foundation of His authority.