Who is Jesus?

Jesus of Nazareth is a central figure in Christianity, revered by billions as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. Understanding who Jesus is involves exploring his identity, mission, and the profound impact he has had on the world. The Bible provides a comprehensive portrayal of Jesus, encompassing his divine nature, his earthly ministry, and his eternal significance. This exploration is grounded in biblical texts, which serve as the primary source of knowledge about Jesus.

The Divine Nature of Jesus

The New Testament unequivocally affirms the divinity of Jesus. John 1:1-3 declares, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made." This passage identifies Jesus as the eternal Word (Logos) who was with God and is God, participating in creation itself. Further in John 1:14, it is stated, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." This highlights the incarnation, where Jesus, though divine, took on human form.

Jesus himself made claims of divinity. In John 10:30, he declares, "I and the Father are one," indicating his unity with God. In John 14:9, Jesus tells Philip, "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father," suggesting that to see Jesus is to see God. These statements were radical and led to significant controversy and conflict, particularly with religious authorities of the time.

The Messianic Role of Jesus

Jesus is also recognized as the Messiah, the anointed one promised throughout the Old Testament. Prophecies concerning the Messiah are seen as fulfilled in Jesus' life and work. Isaiah 53:5 describes the suffering servant: "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed." Christians believe this prophecy foreshadows Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross.

Jesus’ role as the Messiah is confirmed in various New Testament accounts. In Matthew 16:16, Peter acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah: "Simon Peter answered, 'You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.'" Jesus affirms Peter’s confession, indicating its divine revelation. Furthermore, Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, described in Matthew 21:9, fulfills Zechariah 9:9: "Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey."

Jesus' Earthly Ministry

Jesus’ ministry, beginning around the age of 30, was marked by teaching, miracles, and a call to repentance and faith. His teachings, often conveyed through parables, emphasized the Kingdom of God, love, forgiveness, and righteousness. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is one of his most famous discourses, highlighting the ethical and spiritual standards of the Kingdom of God.

Miracles performed by Jesus, as recorded in the Gospels, demonstrated his authority over nature, illness, and even death. In Matthew 14:19-21, Jesus feeds five thousand people with five loaves of bread and two fish, illustrating his provision and power. In John 11:43-44, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, showcasing his authority over life and death and foreshadowing his own resurrection.

The Sacrificial Death and Resurrection of Jesus

Central to understanding who Jesus is are his crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus’ death is seen as the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity, fulfilling the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. John 3:16 succinctly captures this: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse highlights the purpose of Jesus’ mission – to offer salvation to all who believe.

The resurrection is equally crucial, affirming Jesus’ victory over sin and death. According to 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, "Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures." The resurrection is not merely a miraculous event but a foundational truth of Christian faith, offering the hope of eternal life.

Jesus' Ongoing Influence

Jesus' influence extends beyond his earthly life. He promised the Holy Spirit to his followers, ensuring his presence with them always (John 14:16-17). The early church, as recorded in Acts, spread the message of Jesus, enduring persecution and hardship. Jesus' teachings and example continue to inspire and guide Christians today.

The Book of Revelation presents Jesus as the reigning King and Judge who will return to bring ultimate justice and establish a new heaven and earth. Revelation 19:11-16 portrays Jesus as a warrior king, emphasizing his power and authority in the culmination of history.

Jesus is the incarnate Word of God, the Messiah who fulfills ancient prophecies, the teacher and miracle-worker who revealed God's Kingdom, the sacrificial Lamb who atones for sin, and the risen Lord who reigns eternally. His life, death, and resurrection are foundational to Christian faith, offering a path to reconciliation with God and eternal life. The Bible, through its diverse texts, paints a comprehensive picture of Jesus, inviting believers to understand, follow, and proclaim him as the Savior and Lord of all creation.