Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the central figure of Christianity, believed by Christians to be the Son of God, the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament, and the Savior of humanity. His life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of Christian faith and theology. Birth and Early Life: Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, fulfilling the prophecy of Micah 5:2. His birth to the Virgin Mary is recounted in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. The angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:26-35). Joseph, her betrothed, was reassured by an angel to take Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:20-21). Jesus' birth is celebrated by Christians as the Incarnation, God becoming flesh (John 1:14). Ministry: Jesus began His public ministry around the age of thirty (Luke 3:23). He was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, where the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, and a voice from heaven declared, "You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased" (Mark 1:11). Jesus' ministry included teaching, preaching, healing, and performing miracles, demonstrating His authority over nature, sickness, and even death. Teachings: Jesus' teachings emphasized the Kingdom of God, love, repentance, and forgiveness. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is one of His most famous discourses, where He taught the Beatitudes, the Lord's Prayer, and the Golden Rule. He often used parables to convey spiritual truths, such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Miracles: Jesus performed numerous miracles, which served as signs of His divine authority and compassion. These included turning water into wine (John 2:1-11), feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-14), walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33), healing the sick (Matthew 8:16-17), and raising the dead, such as Lazarus (John 11:1-44). Death and Resurrection: Jesus' crucifixion is central to Christian belief, seen as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of humanity. He was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion under Pontius Pilate (John 19:16-18). His death fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53. On the third day, Jesus rose from the dead, as He had foretold (Matthew 28:5-6). His resurrection is celebrated by Christians as the victory over sin and death. Ascension and Second Coming: After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples and many others over forty days (Acts 1:3). He then ascended into heaven, where He sits at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19). Christians believe in His promised return, the Second Coming, when He will judge the living and the dead (Acts 1:11; Revelation 19:11-16). Titles and Names: Jesus is known by many titles and names, reflecting His nature and work. These include Christ (the Anointed One), Son of God, Son of Man, Lamb of God, Light of the World, and King of Kings. Each title reveals a different aspect of His identity and mission. Significance: Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of Christian faith. His life and teachings continue to inspire and guide millions of believers worldwide. Through His death and resurrection, Christians believe He offers salvation and eternal life to all who trust in Him (John 3:16). |