Who Is Jesus?
Jesus' Identity
Most accept that Jesus was truly a man who lived in Israel 2,000 years ago. The debate begins with the discussion of Jesus’ full identity. Almost every major religion teaches that Jesus was a prophet or a good teacher or a godly man. But the scripture tells us that Jesus was infinitely more than a prophet, a good teacher, or a godly man. He was in fact God!
In John 8:58 Jesus claims pre-existence, an attribute of God: “‘Very truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘before Abraham was born, I am!’” In response to this statement, the Jews again took up stones to stone Jesus (John 8:59). In claiming pre-existence, Jesus applied a name for God to Himself—I AM The Jews rejected Jesus’ identity as God Incarnate, but they understood exactly what He was saying.
Jesus is both God and man. As God, Jesus could satisfy God’s wrath. As a man, Jesus had the capability of dying. As the God-man, Jesus is the perfect Mediator between heaven and earth (1 Timothy 2:5). Salvation is available only through faith in Jesus Christ. As He proclaimed, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Lots of people think Christianity is all about doing what Jesus says. But what if doing what Jesus says isn’t what Jesus says to do at all?
Jesus’ invitation is an invitation to a relationship, and it begins with a simple request: Follow me.
Religion says...
“Change and you can join us.”
Jesus says...
“Join us and you will change.”
the invitation
There’s a huge difference. Jesus doesn’t expect people to be perfect. He just wants them to follow him. Being a mess doesn’t disqualify anyone. Being an unbeliever doesn’t disqualify anyone.
In fact, following almost always begins with being an unbeliever taking one small step.
You too can make that one small step by putting your faith in Jesus.
Pray this from your heart:
“Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior.”
Did you pray that from your heart?
We would love to help you on your journey. Please get in touch with us.