In the New Testament of the Bible, God the Father performs several key actions for Jesus Christ (the Son), reflecting their unique relationship within the Trinity. These include affirmation, empowerment, support, and exaltation.
Public Affirmation and Declaration of Love

  • At Jesus’ baptism, the Father spoke from heaven: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17; also Mark 1:11, Luke 3:22).
  • Similarly, at the Transfiguration: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him” (Matthew 17:5; also Mark 9:7, 2 Peter 1:17). These declarations publicly affirmed Jesus’ identity and divine sonship.

Sending Jesus into the World

  • The Father sent the Son as part of the plan of salvation: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son…” (John 3:16).
  • Jesus repeatedly stated He was sent by the Father (e.g., John 5:36-38, John 6:38, John 8:42, John 20:21).

Teaching, Guiding, and Showing

  • The Father taught Jesus and showed Him what to do and say: “The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he sees the Father doing… The Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing” (John 5:19-20).
  • Jesus spoke only what the Father taught Him (John 8:28, John 12:49-50).

Giving Authority, People, and All Things

  • The Father gave Jesus authority to judge, execute judgment, and have life in Himself (John 5:22, 26-27).
  • He gave Jesus His followers: “All that the Father gives me will come to me” (John 6:37; also John 17:6).
  • Ultimately, “The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand” (John 3:35; also John 13:3).

Supporting During Ministry

  • The Father bore witness to Jesus through works and signs (John 5:36-37, John 10:25).
  • He granted Jesus’ requests, such as glorifying Him (John 17:1-5).

Raising and Exalting Jesus

  • The Father raised Jesus from the dead: “God raised him up… This Jesus God raised up” (Acts 2:24, 32; also Romans 6:4, Galatians 1:1).
  • He exalted Jesus to His right hand, giving Him the name above every name (Philippians 2:9-11; Acts 2:33).

These actions highlight the Father’s love, honor, and empowerment toward the Son, while Jesus perfectly obeyed and glorified the Father (John 17:4). This relationship underscores the unity and distinct roles within the Godhead.