WHO WAS JESUS?

Jesus is almost universally admired throughout different cultures, nations and religions. Few people, however, take the time to look at what this man really said and did.

Historians, both Christian and secular, believe that He walked the streets of the first-century Middle East. Four biographies in the Bible provide remarkable insight into His teachings and philosophy. Other books of the Bible shed additional light on the life and teachings of Jesus.

According to these biblical historians, Jesus made some remarkable claims:
“My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.” – John 10:10
“I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father [God] except through me.” – John 14:6
“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father [God].” – John 14:9
“Your sins are forgiven.” – Mark 2:5
“All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me.” – Matthew 28:18

In examining just a few of the statements Jesus made about Himself, we see that He claims to:
1. Provide a fulfilling life for people
2. Be the one and only way to a relationship with God
3. Be the physical representation of God on earth
4. Be able to forgive sins
5. Have all power and authority

Obviously, we are not talking about some ordinary sandal-clad philosopher here.

People who heard Jesus’ teachings were amazed at the authority by which He spoke, the Bible says. He urged people to be in a right relationship with God starting from the inside out. Jesus often criticized the religious leaders of His day for offering a public appearance of goodness, but living unethical private lives.

In addition to His teaching, Jesus modeled love, justice and truth in a life unparalleled in human history. When He was insulted, He did not respond with hatred. He cared for people who were often rejected. He broke through racial and gender barriers to minister to all people.

In addition to Jesus' gracious words and deeds, the eyewitness accounts in the Bible record evidence of the divine. The gospels provide numerous accounts of Jesus performing miraculous physical healings and even raising people from the dead.

Jesus paid the ultimate consequence for a life well lived: death. Secular and religious historians agree that Jesus was executed by the Roman government. But Christians view this death as no accident. According to the Bible, Jesus willingly gave up His life as a sacrifice for the sins of the whole world.

But that isn't the end of the story. In a demonstration of God's power and a vindication of Jesus' divine identity, Jesus rose from the dead.

Jesus’ teaching, life example, death and resurrection demonstrate that He was truly the Son of God.

If you want to know more about Jesus, the best place to start is to read the insights of John, one of His biblical biographers.

Questions? Please contact us.

Common Questions
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