The recognition of Jesus as God is a fundamental tenet within Christian theology, and the Bible serves as the primary source for this profound affirmation. In exploring the sacred scriptures, we uncover the explicit references and titles ascribed to Jesus that underline his divine nature.
1. Gospel of John: The Logos Incarnate: The Gospel of John stands as a cornerstone in affirming the divinity of Jesus. In the opening verses, John introduces the concept of the "Logos" or Word—a divine, creative force that was with God and was God. The proclamation, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14), encapsulates the divine incarnation of Jesus.
2. "I Am" Statements: Echoes of God's Self-Identification: Throughout the Gospels, Jesus makes several "I am" statements, echoing the divine self-identification found in the Old Testament. In John 8:58, Jesus declares, "Before Abraham was, I am," evoking the name of God revealed to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:14). These statements assert Jesus' eternal existence and divine nature.
3. Thomas' Confession: "My Lord and My God": In a poignant moment of realization, the disciple Thomas utters a profound confession of Jesus' divinity in John 20:28: "My Lord and my God!" This direct acknowledgment underscores the recognition of Jesus not only as a revered teacher but as the divine Lord.
4. Colossians 1:15-20: The Supremacy of Christ: The Epistle to the Colossians provides a robust theological framework for understanding Jesus' divine nature. Colossians 1:15-20 exalts Christ as the image of the invisible God, the creator of all things, and the one in whom all things hold together—a cosmic affirmation of Jesus' divine role.
5. Hebrews: The Radiance of God's Glory: The Book of Hebrews emphasizes Jesus as the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being (Hebrews 1:3). This portrayal underscores the intimate connection between Jesus and the divine, affirming his status as God incarnate.
6. Revelation: The Alpha and Omega: In the apocalyptic visions of Revelation, Jesus identifies himself as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13). This title aligns with the divine attributes of God as the eternal and sovereign ruler over all creation.
The Bible, through various passages and writings, consistently affirms the divinity of Jesus. From the prologue of John's Gospel to the resounding declarations in the Epistles and Revelation, the scriptures paint a portrait of Jesus as God incarnate—a central and foundational belief in Christian faith.
