Justin's Two Advents of Christ and the Title Christ

In early Christian theology, the concept of the two advents of Christ—his first coming in humility and suffering, and his second coming in glory and judgment—played a significant role. One of the early church fathers, Justin Martyr, elaborates on this idea in his works, especially in the "Dialogue with Trypho."

Justin's Argument for Two Advents

Justin Martyr presents a detailed argument in Dialogue 31-32, emphasizing the distinct nature of Christ's two appearances. He draws heavily from prophetic texts to substantiate his claim:

1. First Advent: In his first advent, Christ comes in humility, suffering, and ultimately crucifixion. This is in line with prophecies such as Isaiah 53, which describe the suffering servant. Justin explains that this aspect of Christ’s mission was to atone for humanity's sins and to fulfill the role of the suffering Messiah.

2. Second Advent: Justin asserts that the second advent will be marked by glory and power, as Christ returns to judge the world. This advent aligns with prophecies like Daniel 7:13-14, where the Son of Man comes with the clouds of heaven and is given dominion and glory.

The Titles "Christ" and "Chrestos"

Justin’s interpretation involves reconciling the titles "Christ" (Χριστός) and "Chrestos" (Χρηστός). These titles have nuanced implications:

• Christ (Χριστός): This title means "the Anointed One" and is closely associated with the Messianic expectations within Judaism. The title implies a kingly and prophetic role, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies about a coming ruler from the line of David.

• Chrestos (Χρηστός): Meaning "good" or "kind," this title is less common but was sometimes used interchangeably with "Christ" in early Christian literature. The use of "Chrestos" could reflect the perceived benevolent and merciful nature of Jesus during his earthly ministry.

Justin suggests that these titles may reflect the dual aspects of Jesus’ mission: his first advent characterized by mercy and humility (Chrestos) and his second advent by power and judgment (Christos).

Implications for Early Christian Thought

Justin’s framework had profound implications for early Christian theology and eschatology:

1. Reconciling Jewish and Christian Expectations: By distinguishing between the two advents, Justin addressed Jewish objections to Jesus as the Messiah. Jews expected a triumphant, kingly Messiah who would liberate Israel, a role that Jesus’ first advent did not fulfill. Justin’s explanation of a second, glorious coming provided a way to reconcile these expectations.

2. Theological Coherence: This interpretation helped early Christians understand the apparent contradictions in Messianic prophecies—those that depicted a suffering servant and those that described a victorious king. By placing these prophecies in the context of two separate advents, Justin offered a coherent theological narrative.

3. Addressing Heresies: Justin’s discussion also counters various heretical views. For instance, some groups denied Jesus’ humanity or his divinity, while others, like the Marcionites, rejected the Old Testament God. By emphasizing the continuity between the Testaments and the dual nature of Christ’s mission, Justin sought to refute these heresies.

Conclusion

Justin Martyr’s exposition on the two advents of Christ and the implications of the titles "Christ" and "Chrestos" provides a foundational understanding for early Christian eschatology and Christology. His interpretations helped bridge the gap between Jewish Messianic expectations and the Christian proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah, addressing both internal theological debates and external critiques from Judaism and other religious movements of the time.