A "Messianic" Use of Chrestos in Against Celsus

The term "Chrestos" has a fascinating usage in early Christian texts, particularly in the context of Origen's Against Celsus. This text provides intriguing insights into how early Christians understood and employed the term in a messianic sense.

Chairemon's Comets and Messianic Expectations

Origen references the Stoic philosopher Chairemon's writings on comets, noting that such celestial phenomena often coincided with significant terrestrial events like changes in kingdoms or wars. Chairemon observed that comets sometimes appeared during favorable times, marking major transitions on earth. Origen draws a parallel to the birth of a transformative figure who would introduce new teachings not only to Jews but also to Greeks and even to various barbarian nations:

"We have read in the work of the Stoic philosopher Chairemon regarding comets, how and under what circumstances comets have appeared even during the right times, and he recounts the history of these phenomena. Therefore, if a comet, or any similar star, rises in conjunction with new kingdoms or other significant events on earth, what wonder will it bring upon the birth of an innovator in the human race, and introduce teaching not only to the Jews but also to many Greeks and even to the nations of barbarians?"

In this context, "Chrestos" can be interpreted as "the right one," indicating someone who appears at the right or opportune time, often associated with times of great change or upheaval.

Chrestos and Divine Goodness

Origen’s writings in Against Celsus also frequently link "Chrestos" with divine goodness and kindness. This usage underscores a messianic expectation where the figure of Jesus embodies supreme moral and spiritual qualities:

"There is a consistent connection between 'chrestos' and Jesus in the first books of Against Heresies which may suggest the original draft was written by someone other than Origen."

This connection is elaborated through various passages, highlighting how Jesus's teachings and actions were seen as manifestations of divine goodness and philanthropy.

The Role of Chrestos in Conversion and Moral Transformation

Origen argues that the teachings of Jesus, described as filled with "chrestos," have the power to convert people from lives of vice to lives of virtue. This transformation is not merely about ethical improvement but a profound spiritual renewal:

"But when we consider that those discourses, which Celsus terms vulgar, are filled with power, as if they were spells, and see that they at once convert multitudes from a life of licentiousness to one of extreme regularity, and from a life of wickedness to one of virtue (chrestoteron), and from a state of cowardice or unmanliness to one of such high-toned courage as to lead men to despise even death through the piety which shows itself within them, why should we not justly admire the power which they contain?"

This passage reflects the transformative impact attributed to Jesus's teachings, described using the term "chrestos" to signify their inherent goodness and effectiveness in leading people towards salvation and moral excellence.

Chrestos and the Concept of Divine Humility

Origen further discusses the humility and goodness of Jesus, emphasizing that his descent to humanity was an act of divine philanthropy. This underscores the messianic role of Jesus as a humble yet divinely appointed savior:

"But the descent to humanity 'in the form of God' was also due to philanthropy, as he 'emptied himself' so that he might be able to be received by humans... For where could goodness (chrestos) and philanthropy be considered the worst?"

This reflection highlights the intrinsic goodness and altruism of Jesus, reinforcing the messianic ideal of a savior who embodies ultimate divine virtues.

Conclusion

The term "Chrestos" in Origen's Against Celsus serves as a multifaceted concept that bridges divine goodness, moral transformation, and messianic expectation. It is used to describe Jesus not only as a figure of goodness and philanthropy but also as a pivotal character who appears at the right time to bring about significant change and offer salvation. This usage enriches our understanding of early Christian theology and the complex layers of meaning attributed to Jesus as the "Chrestos."

The exploration of this term in various contexts within Origen's work reveals a consistent theme of divine intervention and moral renewal, painting a picture of a messianic figure whose impact transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.