The identity of Jesus has been a matter of debate for several theologians and historians who find his story fascinating. Though Jesus Christ made his identity clear during his time on earth, that has not stopped some bible readers from digging deeper and drawing their conclusions. While some believe that he is God, others argue that he is a demigod. So, is Jesus God?
Most theologians and bible readers believe that Jesus is God because the scripture provides enough evidence to conclude so. Though some people still argue that Jesus is not God because he never said the specific words, “I am God,” what they are blind to is that he claimed to be God. In John 10:30, Jesus says, “I and the Father are one.”
So, how is Jesus different from God? Did Jesus claim to be God in the New Testament? Why is Jesus called the Son of God if he is God? If Jesus is the Son of God, did God have a wife? How can Jesus be both God and a man at the same time? Do all Christians believe that Jesus is God? What are some of the biblical reasons why Christians believe Jesus is God? Continue reading to get the answers to these questions and even more.
How is Jesus different from God?
From a theological perspective, God the Father and Jesus are different persons of the Trinity; however, their nature and essence are one. John 1:1-3 reads, “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; without him, nothing was made that has been made.”
The book of Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Therefore, it is evident that Jesus is God; however, God the Son is not God the Father and is not the same person as God the Holy Spirit.
Did Jesus claim to be God in the New Testament?
There are some instances in the scripture where Jesus hinted he was God. The book of John 10:30 reads, “I and the Father are one.” Additionally, the Jews accused Jesus of claiming to be God, which is enough proof that Jesus claims to be God. John 10:33, “The Jews answered him, it is not for good work that we are going to stone you but for blasphemy, because you, being a man, make yourself God.”
The Jews understood that Jesus was claiming the deity. John 8:58 says, “Jesus said to them, truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” In Exodus 3:14, God also revealed himself as “I AM.” “God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, say this to the people of Israel. “I AM” has sent me to you.” Therefore, it is evident that Jesus claimed he was God in the New Testament.
Why is Jesus called the Son of God if he is God?
It is clear from John 3:16 that Jesus was God’s Son. “For God so loved the world, which he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believe in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” However, Jesus was not just a spiritual being when on earth; he was both fully God and fully human.
Colossians 2:9 goes on and emphasizes and says, “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.” Christ was the Son of God, but he was not less than his Father, but he and God are one.
If Jesus is the Son of God, did God have a wife?
Though some historians have attempted to push forward the narrative that God had a wife, it is not valid. God did not have a wife and did not need one. Jesus, the Son of God, was born by a human being, Mary, the mother of Jesus, as mentioned in Galatians 4:4.
Mathew 1:18-25 reads, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.”
How can Jesus be both God and man at the same time?
The Bible clearly states that Jesus is both man and God. The Bible is clear that Jesus was God; even the disciples addressed Him as one. John 20:28 reads, “Thomas answered him, My Lord and my God,” the book of John 4:2-3 continues to emphasize that, “By this, you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already.”
The book of Romans 10:9 affirms Jesus’ divinity that he is entirely God and fully man. “
Do all Christians believe Jesus is God?
Most Christians believe that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is God but appeared in flesh form. Colossians 2:9 says, “For in him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form.” Jesus himself claimed to be God, not by saying the words, “I AM GOD,” but by depicting that God and he were one. John 10:30 reads, “I and the Father are one.” His disciples even called him God, and he performed only what God could do. So, though some Christians do not agree that Jesus is God, there is enough proof in the Bible to support those who believe he is God.
Biblical reasons why Christians believe Jesus is God?
Several pieces of biblical evidence led Christians to believe that Jesus is God. One of the core reasons is that Jesus himself claimed to be God. Additionally, as mentioned above, the disciples referred to Jesus with names that only God is called. John 20:28 reads, “Thomas answered him, My Lord and my God,”
Another core reason why Christians believe that Jesus is God is that Jesus was perfect and had no sin, a quality only God has. Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weakness, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet he did not sin.”
If Jesus is God, does that mean there are multiple Gods?
There is only one God. Jesus being God does not mean that there are multiple Gods. The Trinity teaches and also holds to the fact that there is only one God, but his nature has three persons, the Son, who is Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and God the Father. Some bible readers mistake the Trinity for tri-theism and teach the existence of three independent Gods. Therefore, only one God exists, but his nature can exist in three persons. Isiah 45:6 says, “So all the world from east to west will know there is no other god. I am the Lord, and there is no other.”
Do Catholics believe Jesus is God?
The Catholics believe that Jesus is God because they acknowledge the Trinity. The core beliefs surrounding the Catholic faith are based on the Nicene Creed. A part of it says, “I believe in One Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten son of God, born of the Father before all ages….”
Do Orthodox believe Jesus is God?
The Orthodox Church acknowledges and believes that Jesus was entirely man and God. The Orthodox Church prayer acknowledges the Trinity; God the Father, the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. They believe that Jesus is the creator and believe in his teachings as they are of God.
Why do some people believe that Jesus is an angel?
Some churches teach that Jesus was an angel. Their perspective is mainly based on the nature of Christ on earth, his divinity, and what he did while on earth. However, the book of Hebrews 1:7-8 distinguishes Jesus from angels, “Who makes His angels spirits and his ministers a flame of fire. But to the Son, he says. Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of your kingdom.”
References
Is Jesus God? Why should I believe that Jesus is God?
10 Biblical Reasons Jesus Is God
Is Jesus God or Just a Good Man?
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
