Introduction

Understanding the true nature and identity of Jesus Christ is central to Christian faith. The Bible provides a comprehensive revelation of who Christ is, His mission, and His significance in the divine plan of salvation. This entry explores the biblical portrayal of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His divinity, humanity, and redemptive work.

Divinity of Christ

The Bible affirms the divinity of Christ, presenting Him as the eternal Son of God. In John 1:1-3 , it is written, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made." This passage underscores Christ's pre-existence and active role in creation, affirming His divine nature.

Philippians 2:6-7 further highlights His divinity: "Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." Here, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that Christ, though divine, chose to humble Himself for the sake of humanity.

Humanity of Christ

The true Christ is also fully human, a truth essential for His role as the mediator between God and man. Hebrews 2:14 states, "Therefore, since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil." This verse highlights the necessity of Christ's humanity for His sacrificial death and victory over sin and death.

The Gospels provide numerous accounts of Jesus' human experiences, such as His birth (Luke 2:7), His growth in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52), and His suffering and death (Matthew 27:50). These accounts affirm that Jesus fully participated in the human condition, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).

Messianic Fulfillment

Jesus Christ fulfills the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Isaiah 53:5 prophesies, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." This prophecy finds fulfillment in the crucifixion of Jesus, as described in the New Testament.

In Luke 24:44 , Jesus Himself declares, "These are the words I spoke to you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms." This statement confirms that Jesus saw His life and mission as the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies.

Redemptive Work

Central to knowing the true Christ is understanding His redemptive work. Jesus' death and resurrection are the cornerstone of Christian salvation. Romans 5:8-9 states, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Therefore, since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!"

The resurrection of Christ is pivotal, as it validates His victory over sin and death. In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 , Paul writes, "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures." This passage underscores the foundational truth of the Gospel message.

Conclusion

Understanding the true Christ involves recognizing His divine and human natures, His fulfillment of Messianic prophecies, and His redemptive work. The Bible provides a clear and comprehensive revelation of Jesus Christ, inviting believers to know Him personally and to embrace the salvation He offers.