The question of whether Jesus is God is a pivotal one in Christian theology, impacting our understanding of salvation, worship, and the very nature of God. Let’s delve into the Bible to seek clarity on this profound question.
Jesus and the Divine Nature
From the outset, the Gospel of John declares the divinity of Jesus:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1, KJV)
This passage identifies Jesus (the Word) as God, existing eternally with the Father. Further in John, it is made explicit:
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14, KJV)
Here, John confirms that Jesus, the Word, took on human form, showing that God became incarnate in Jesus.
Jesus’ Own Claims
Jesus Himself made claims about His divine nature. In a confrontation with the Jewish leaders, He stated:
“I and my Father are one.” (John 10:30, KJV)
This assertion led the Jews to accuse Him of blasphemy, recognizing that He was claiming equality with God. Jesus did not refute their understanding but instead reinforced His identity as the Son of God, sharing in the divine essence.
Apostolic Testimony
The apostles also affirmed the deity of Jesus. Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, writes:
“For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” (Colossians 2:9, KJV)
This verse speaks unequivocally about the fullness of God’s nature residing in Jesus, confirming His divinity. Similarly, in Titus, Paul refers to Jesus as God:
“Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;” (Titus 2:13, KJV)
Jesus’ Role in Creation
Another compelling evidence of Jesus’ divinity is His role in creation:
“All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” (John 1:3, KJV)
The creator role is a divine prerogative, and attributing creation to Jesus underscores His deity.
Worship of Jesus
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is worshipped, which would be idolatrous if He were not God. In Revelation, John records:
“And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb… And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;” (Revelation 5:8-9, KJV)
The Lamb, Jesus, is worshipped alongside the Father, affirming His divinity.
Conclusion
The Bible provides ample evidence that Jesus is indeed God. From His own claims, the apostles’ teachings, His role in creation, and the worship He receives, it is clear that Jesus shares in the divine nature with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Believing in Jesus as God is central to Christian faith, impacting our understanding of His authority, our worship, and the salvation He offers.
“And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.” (John 20:28, KJV)
In these words of Thomas, we see the clear acknowledgment of Jesus’ divinity. As believers, we too are called to recognize and proclaim Jesus as our Lord and our God.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
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