According to the Bible, Jesus is the central figure of Christianity, recognized as both fully divine and fully human. He is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, which includes God the Father and the Holy Spirit. Jesus is depicted as the Messiah (Christ), the anointed one sent to fulfill Old Testament prophecies and bring salvation to humanity. His divine nature is affirmed in John 1:1, which states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This passage identifies Jesus as the eternal Word made flesh (John 1:14).
In his earthly ministry, Jesus taught about the Kingdom of God, performed miracles, and lived a sinless life. He is the Savior who, through his sacrificial death on the cross, atoned for the sins of humanity, offering redemption and reconciliation with God (Romans 5:8). His resurrection from the dead, as described in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, confirms his victory over sin and death and assures believers of eternal life. Jesus is also expected to return, as promised in Acts 1:11, to establish God's eternal kingdom. Mainstream evangelical Christianity emphasizes a personal relationship with Jesus, recognizing him as Lord and Savior.
The question "Who is Jesus according to the Bible?" is one of profound theological significance and has been the cornerstone of Christian doctrine for centuries. The Bible presents Jesus not merely as a historical figure but as a pivotal character in God's redemptive plan for humanity. Understanding who Jesus is according to the Bible involves exploring His nature, His mission, and His impact on the world.
The Bible unequivocally teaches that Jesus is the Son of God, a title that signifies His divine nature and equality with God the Father. In John 1:1-14 (ESV), we read:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made... And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
This passage highlights Jesus' pre-existence and His incarnation, emphasizing that He is both fully God and fully man. The claim to divinity is further supported by Jesus' own words in John 10:30 (NIV), where He says, "I and the Father are one," a statement that led to accusations of blasphemy from His contemporaries.
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is worshiped and acknowledged as divine. In Matthew 14:33 (NKJV), after Jesus walks on water and calms the storm, those in the boat worship Him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God." Similarly, the apostle Thomas addresses Him as "My Lord and my God" in John 20:28 (NASB) after witnessing the risen Christ.
The central mission of Jesus, according to the Bible, was to save humanity from sin. In Luke 19:10 (ESV), Jesus declares, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." This mission is rooted in His role as the sacrificial Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29, NIV).
The concept of atonement is critical to understanding Jesus' work on the cross. In 1 John 2:2 (NIV), it is stated:
He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
Jesus' death and resurrection are presented as the means by which humanity can be reconciled to God, providing a way for eternal life (John 3:16, ESV).
Jesus is portrayed as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV) prophesies:
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
These titles, given to the prophesied Messiah, are ascribed to Jesus, affirming His role and identity.
Jesus spoke frequently about the Kingdom of God, a central theme in His teachings. In Mark 1:15 (ESV), He proclaims, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel." This kingdom is both a present reality and a future hope, characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17, NIV).
The Bible describes Jesus as the mediator who reconciles humanity to God. In 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (NIV), we read:
For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people.
This role underscores His unique position as both God and man, capable of bridging the gap caused by sin.
In the book of Hebrews, Jesus is referred to as the great High Priest who intercedes on behalf of humanity. Hebrews 4:14-16 (ESV) states:
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.
Understanding who Jesus is according to the Bible is not merely an academic exercise; it has profound implications for personal faith and daily living. Recognizing Jesus as the Son of God, Savior, and Mediator encourages believers to trust in His redemptive work and follow His teachings.
In summary, Jesus is depicted in the Bible as fully divine and fully human, the promised Messiah, and the only Savior of humanity. His life, death, and resurrection form the foundation of Christian belief, offering the promise of salvation and eternal life to all who believe. As believers, we are called to worship Him, live according to His teachings, and share the good news of His kingdom with the world.