Introduction

The divine identity of Jesus Christ is a central tenet of Christian theology, affirming His nature as both fully God and fully man. This doctrine is foundational to understanding the person and work of Jesus, as well as His role in the salvation of humanity. The Bible provides numerous passages that reveal and affirm the divine nature of Jesus, underscoring His eternal existence, His unity with the Father, and His role in creation and redemption.

Eternal Existence

The Gospel of John opens with a profound declaration of Jesus' eternal existence and divine nature: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This passage identifies Jesus as the "Word" (Logos), emphasizing His preexistence and active participation in creation. John further asserts, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us" (John 1:14), highlighting the incarnation of the divine Word in the person of Jesus Christ.

Unity with the Father

Jesus' unity with the Father is a recurring theme in the New Testament. In John 10:30, Jesus declares, "I and the Father are one" , a statement that underscores His divine nature and equality with God. This unity is further emphasized in John 14:9, where Jesus tells Philip, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father" . These declarations affirm that Jesus is not merely a representative of God but is indeed God Himself.

Role in Creation

The New Testament attributes the work of creation to Jesus, affirming His divine identity. Colossians 1:16 states, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him" . This passage highlights Jesus' sovereignty over all creation and His active role as Creator, a role that belongs solely to God.

Divine Titles and Attributes

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is ascribed titles and attributes that affirm His divinity. He is referred to as "Immanuel," meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23), and is called "Lord" (Kyrios), a title that denotes divine authority and is used in the Septuagint to translate the divine name YHWH. In Revelation 1:8, Jesus is described as "the Alpha and the Omega... who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty" , further affirming His eternal and unchanging nature.

Worship and Divine Prerogatives

Jesus receives worship and exercises divine prerogatives, actions that affirm His divine identity. In Matthew 14:33, after Jesus walks on water, the disciples worship Him, saying, "Truly You are the Son of God" . Jesus also forgives sins, a divine prerogative, as seen in Mark 2:5-7, where He tells a paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven" , prompting the scribes to question, "Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

Conclusion

The divine identity of Jesus is a profound and essential aspect of Christian belief, rooted in the testimony of Scripture. Through His eternal existence, unity with the Father, role in creation, divine titles, and the worship He receives, Jesus is revealed as fully God, worthy of honor, worship, and devotion.