Introduction

Understanding the identity of Jesus is central to Christian theology and faith. The New Testament provides a comprehensive portrayal of Jesus, emphasizing His divine nature, His role as the Messiah, and His mission of salvation. This entry explores key aspects of Jesus' identity as revealed in the Scriptures.

Divine Nature

The New Testament affirms the divinity of Jesus, presenting Him as the Son of God. In the Gospel of John, Jesus is described as the Word who was with God and was God: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This passage underscores the pre-existence and divine nature of Jesus, identifying Him as integral to the Godhead.

Jesus Himself claimed divinity, as seen in His statement, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). This assertion of unity with the Father was understood by His contemporaries as a claim to deity, leading to accusations of blasphemy (John 10:33).

Messianic Role

Jesus is identified as the Messiah, the anointed one promised in the Old Testament. The Gospel of Matthew begins with a genealogy that traces Jesus' lineage to David and Abraham, establishing His rightful claim to the messianic title (Matthew 1:1-17). The angel's announcement to Mary further confirms His messianic role: "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David" (Luke 1:32).

Throughout His ministry, Jesus fulfilled numerous Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. For instance, His birth in Bethlehem fulfilled Micah 5:2, and His entry into Jerusalem on a donkey fulfilled Zechariah 9:9. These fulfillments serve as evidence of His identity as the promised Savior.

Human Nature

While fully divine, Jesus also embraced human nature. The doctrine of the Incarnation, as articulated in John 1:14, states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us" . This mystery of the Incarnation is central to understanding Jesus' identity, as it affirms that He was both fully God and fully man.

Jesus experienced human emotions, needs, and limitations. He wept at Lazarus' tomb (John 11:35), felt hunger (Matthew 4:2), and experienced fatigue (John 4:6). These experiences highlight His genuine humanity, enabling Him to empathize with human struggles and serve as a perfect mediator between God and humanity.

Savior and Redeemer

Central to Jesus' identity is His role as Savior and Redeemer. The angel's message to Joseph encapsulates this mission: "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is the culmination of His redemptive work, providing atonement for sin and reconciliation with God.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes this redemptive aspect in his epistle to the Romans: "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

King and Lord

Jesus is also recognized as King and Lord, possessing authority over all creation. In the Great Commission, He declares, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me" (Matthew 28:18). This authority is further affirmed in Philippians 2:9-11, where Paul writes that God exalted Jesus and bestowed on Him the name above every name, so that every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

The Book of Revelation presents a vision of Jesus as the triumphant King, returning to establish His eternal kingdom: "He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is The Word of God" (Revelation 19:13). This portrayal underscores His ultimate victory and sovereign rule.

Conclusion

Understanding Jesus' identity involves recognizing His divine nature, messianic role, human experience, redemptive mission, and sovereign authority. The New Testament provides a multifaceted depiction of Jesus, inviting believers to worship Him as the incarnate Son of God, the promised Messiah, and the risen Lord.