REDEMPTION OF MANY
The term “many” in Scripture, especially concerning Christ’s redemptive work, holds profound theological significance within Catholic teaching. This concept is rooted in the prophecy of Isaiah and finds its fulfillment in Jesus’ words and actions throughout His ministry, particularly at the Last Supper, and in the writings of St. Paul.
Prophecy of the Suffering Servant
In Isaiah 53:11-12, we encounter the prophecy of the Suffering Servant: “Out of his anguish he shall see light; he shall find satisfaction through his knowledge. The righteous one, my servant, shall make many righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore I will allot him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he poured out himself to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.”
This passage foreshadows Christ’s redemptive sacrifice, using the term “many” to describe those who benefit from the Servant’s suffering. The Catholic understanding of this term is inclusive, pointing to the universal scope of Christ’s salvific mission.
Jesus’ Teachings on Redemption
In Matthew 20:28, Jesus said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” The term “many” here, referencing Isaiah 53:11-12, signifies the outcome of Christ’s redemption. Salvation is available to all, but it will be realized only by those who accept Jesus and His message.
At the Last Supper, Jesus further emphasized this, saying, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6). He used “many” again when instituting the Holy Eucharist: “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many” (Mk 14:24; Mt 26:28).
The Universal Call to Salvation
After healing the centurion’s servant, Jesus stated, “Many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 8:11). This illustrates that the term “many” was used by Jesus to signify a broad and inclusive community of believers, resonating with how rabbis and the Qumran community referred to the community of faith or the chosen people.
St. Paul also uses “all” and “many” interchangeably in his Letter to the Romans: “In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so through one righteous act acquittal and life came to all. For just as through the disobedience of one person the many were made sinners, so through the obedience of one the many will be made righteous” (Rom 5:18-19). This reinforces the Catholic understanding that Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for all, even if not all choose to accept its fruits.
REFLECTION
God created humans respecting their personality and giving them the freedom of choice. Though Jesus attained salvation for all, it is our responsibility to accept it and maintain it. After His resurrection, Jesus commissioned the apostles, saying, “Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned” (Mk 16:16).
For us Christians today, the term “many” in these biblical contexts serves as a powerful reminder of several key truths:
1. Christ’s Redemption is Universal: His sacrifice is offered for all humanity, underscoring the inclusive nature of God’s love.
2. Call to Active Participation: We are invited to actively participate in our salvation through faith, obedience, and the sacraments.
3. Significance of Free Will: Our choices matter significantly. We have the freedom to accept or reject God’s offer of salvation.
4. Community of Believers: We are part of a vast and diverse community of believers across history who have been touched by Christ’s redemptive work.
As we reflect on these passages, let us be inspired to live out our faith with gratitude and purpose, recognizing that we are among the “many” for whom Christ shed His blood. May we strive to share the Good News of salvation with others, inviting them to join the multitude of those redeemed by Christ’s sacrifice. In doing so, we participate in the ongoing mission of the Church to bring all people into the embrace of God’s love and mercy.