Who Is Jesus? Understanding His True Identity as God and Savior
Jesus of Nazareth walked the earth more than 2,000 years ago.
He was born in Bethlehem to the virgin Mary.
He grew up in Israel.
But He was no ordinary man.
Many people today say Jesus was just a prophet. Others call Him a wise teacher or a good man. But the Bible tells us He is far more.
Jesus Is God in the Flesh
Jesus is not just like God — He is God.
He was fully human and fully divine at the same time.
The Gospel of John begins by declaring this truth:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” – John 1:1
He also declared this openly during His ministry:
“I and the Father are one.” – John 10:30
The Jewish leaders knew exactly what He meant. They picked up stones to kill Him because they believed He was claiming equality with God.
Again, Jesus revealed His eternal nature:
“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” – John 8:58
When He said “I Am”, He was using the very name God gave Himself in Exodus 3:14. Jesus was proclaiming His identity as the eternal, self-existent God.
Why Does This Matter?
You may ask, “Why does it matter that Jesus is God?”
It matters because only God could pay the penalty for the world’s sin.
If Jesus were only human, His death would not have been enough.
- Because He was fully man, He could die in our place.
- Because He was fully God, His sacrifice was powerful enough to cover the sins of the whole world.
“He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” – 1 John 2:2
This is why Jesus could boldly say:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” – John 14:6
Faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to be saved.
The Titles of Jesus
The Bible uses many names and titles to describe who Jesus is:
- Messiah (Christ): The promised Savior who fulfills prophecy (John 4:25–26).
- Lamb of God: The sacrifice who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29).
- Son of Man: A title showing His humanity and His authority (Daniel 7:13–14, Matthew 26:64).
- Son of God: Declaring His divine nature (Luke 1:35).
Each title shows us more of who He is and why He came.
The Power of the Resurrection
The death of Jesus is central to the gospel, but so is His resurrection.
Without the resurrection, there would be no hope.
- It proves Jesus is truly God’s Son (Romans 1:4).
- It shows His victory over sin and death.
- It guarantees eternal life for all who believe in Him.
Paul wrote:
“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” – 1 Corinthians 15:17
But praise God — the tomb is empty! Jesus is alive.
Who Were His Disciples?
During His earthly ministry, Jesus chose twelve men to follow Him closely. They were called disciples, or apostles.
He gave them authority to preach, to heal, and to drive out demons:
“When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases.” – Luke 9:1
The twelve were:
- Simon (Peter) and his brother Andrew
- James son of Zebedee and his brother John
- Philip and Bartholomew
- Thomas and Matthew the tax collector
- James son of Alphaeus and Thaddaeus
- Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Him
Even though Judas betrayed Him, God’s plan did not fail. Jesus went to the cross, just as God had intended, to bring salvation to the world.
The Great Commission
After His death and resurrection, Jesus gave His followers a mission.
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20
This command is called the Great Commission. It is the reason the gospel spread beyond Israel and continues to spread today.
Why Jesus Still Matters Today
Jesus is not only a figure of history. He is alive. He reigns as King. He saves all who call on His name.
Knowing His true identity changes everything.
- If He is only a teacher, we can admire Him.
- If He is only a prophet, we can respect Him.
- But if He is God, we must worship Him, obey Him, and give Him our lives.
Following Jesus
To follow Jesus means more than agreeing with His teaching.
It means surrendering your life to Him.
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” – Luke 9:23
It means:
- Living by His Word (John 8:31).
- Allowing the Spirit to transform your mind (Romans 12:2).
- Walking in obedience and love.
Common Misunderstandings About Jesus
- Some say Jesus was only a prophet — but He claimed to be one with the Father (John 10:30).
- Some say He was just a good man — but He forgave sins, which only God can do (Mark 2:5–7).
- Some say He is one of many ways to God — but He said He was the only way (John 14:6).
The real question is not just what people say, but what you believe.
A Question for You
Who do you say Jesus is?
Your answer to that question is the most important decision you will ever make.
Reflection Questions
- Do I truly believe Jesus is both fully God and fully man?
- Am I trusting in His death and resurrection for salvation, or in my own works?
- What does it mean for me, personally, to follow Jesus daily?
- How can I share with others who Jesus is?
A Simple Prayer
Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God.
I believe You died for my sins and rose again.
Forgive me for my sins.
Be my Lord. Be my Savior.
Help me to follow You all the days of my life.
Amen.
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