This question has long been debated, even since the time of the apostles. Many people acknowledge Jesus as a great figure, an extraordinary moral teacher, even a prophet. But the Bible consistently states something greater: that Jesus is God.
Jesus Is Not Merely a Teacher or Prophet
If we only consider Jesus as a wise teacher, then we must explain His extraordinary claims. He never said, “I have come to show the way,” but rather, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). A sane teacher would not claim to be “the only way to the Father” unless it were true.
Divine Confession in Words and Actions
Jesus explicitly equated Himself with God. In John 10:30, He said, “I and the Father are one.” Even in John 8:58, Jesus declared, “Before Abraham was, I am.” This statement uses the term “I am” or in the original language, “Ego Eimi,” which directly refers to God’s name in Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM.”
The Jewish response to that statement was very clear: they wanted to stone Him because they considered Him blasphemous. They understood that Jesus was claiming divine status.
Testimony of the Apostles and Biblical Writers
The Apostle Thomas called Jesus “My Lord and my God!” in John 20:28. Paul wrote in Colossians 2:9, “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.” Even John begins his Gospel by stating that “In the beginning was the Word; the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Jesus Deserves Worship
Only God deserves worship, yet Jesus received worship from His disciples (Matthew 28:17) and did not refuse when people worshiped Him. This contrasts with angels or apostles who always reject worship and direct glory to God.
Conclusion: The Bible Declares Jesus Is God
Evidence from Jesus’ words, His actions, as well as the testimony of eyewitnesses and biblical writers shows that Jesus truly is God incarnate. He is not merely a messenger, but God Himself who came to save His people. This is not just a teaching, but the core of the Christian faith.
