God's affirmation of Jesus is a central theme in the New Testament, underscoring the divine approval and authority of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the promised Messiah. This affirmation is expressed through various events and declarations, which serve to confirm Jesus' identity and mission.

The Baptism of Jesus

One of the most significant moments of divine affirmation occurs at the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased'" (Matthew 3:16-17). This event marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and is a clear declaration of His divine sonship and the Father's pleasure in Him.

The Transfiguration

Another pivotal moment of affirmation is the Transfiguration, where Jesus is revealed in His divine glory to Peter, James, and John. The Gospel of Matthew describes this event: "While Peter was still speaking, a bright cloud enveloped them, and a voice from the cloud said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!'" (Matthew 17:5). This divine proclamation not only reaffirms Jesus' identity but also commands the disciples to heed His teachings, emphasizing His authority.

The Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate affirmation of His divine nature and the truth of His teachings. The Apostle Paul writes, "and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 1:4). The resurrection serves as God's powerful endorsement of Jesus' work of salvation and His victory over sin and death.

Miracles and Works

Throughout His ministry, Jesus performed numerous miracles, which are seen as acts of divine power and affirmation. In the Gospel of John, Jesus Himself points to His works as evidence of His divine mission: "But I have testimony more substantial than that of John. For the works that the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works I am doing—testify about Me that the Father has sent Me" (John 5:36). These miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and controlling nature, serve as signs of God's approval and the authenticity of Jesus' claims.

The Voice from Heaven

In addition to the baptism and transfiguration, another instance of divine affirmation occurs during Jesus' final week in Jerusalem. As Jesus predicts His death, a voice from heaven speaks: "Father, glorify Your name!" Then a voice came from heaven: "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again" (John 12:28). This voice reassures Jesus and those present of the divine purpose and glory in His impending sacrifice.

Scriptural Fulfillment

The life and ministry of Jesus are portrayed as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, further affirming His divine mission. The Gospel of Matthew frequently highlights this fulfillment, as seen in passages such as Matthew 1:22-23, which references the prophecy of the virgin birth from Isaiah 7:14. These fulfillments serve as divine validation of Jesus as the promised Messiah.

God's affirmation of Jesus is a multifaceted testimony found throughout the New Testament, encompassing divine declarations, miraculous works, and the fulfillment of prophecy. These affirmations establish Jesus' identity as the Son of God and His authority as the Savior of the world.