Who is Jesus?

Jesus Christ is central to the Christian faith, but who exactly is He? For a new believer, understanding who Jesus is and what He represents is essential to growing in your relationship with God. This article will take a closer look at Jesus’ life, His character, and His role as our Savior, all through the lens of Scripture.

Jesus: The Son of God

One of the most important truths about Jesus is that He is the Son of God. This means He is not just a great teacher or a prophet, but God in human form. In John 1:1, the Bible says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Later, in John 1:14, it explains, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Here, “the Word” refers to Jesus. He is both fully God and fully man, sent to earth to reveal God’s love and nature to us.

Jesus’ Birth and Humble Beginnings

Jesus’ story begins in a humble setting. He was born in Bethlehem to Mary, a young woman chosen by God, and Joseph, a carpenter. The Bible tells us that His birth was a miraculous event, as Mary conceived Him by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35). Jesus’ birthplace was a stable, and His first bed was a manger (Luke 2:7). This humble beginning teaches us that God’s love reaches everyone, regardless of their background or status.

Jesus’ Ministry: Teaching, Healing, and Serving

At around 30 years of age, Jesus began His ministry. He spent about three years teaching, performing miracles, and spreading the good news about God’s kingdom. He taught about love, forgiveness, kindness, and humility, often through simple stories known as parables. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and even raised the dead (Matthew 11:5). Jesus also taught us to love our enemies, to forgive others, and to treat people with compassion. His life was a model of selflessness and service to others.

The Role of Jesus as the Savior

Jesus’ mission on earth was not just to teach or perform miracles; He came to save humanity from sin. Sin separates us from God, and according to the Bible, “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). But Jesus, out of His great love for us, took the penalty of sin upon Himself. He willingly went to the cross, where He was crucified, to pay the price for our sins (John 3:16).

This sacrificial act is known as atonement, which means that Jesus paid the debt we could not pay ourselves. Through His death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death, offering us a way back to God. Ephesians 1:7 explains, “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” Because of Jesus, we are forgiven, cleansed, and welcomed into a relationship with God.

The Resurrection: Victory Over Death

Three days after Jesus died, He rose from the dead. This is known as the resurrection, and it is one of the most powerful events in Christian history. By rising from the dead, Jesus proved that He has power over sin and death, giving us the hope of eternal life with God. As Jesus said in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die.”

Jesus’ Invitation to All

Jesus’ life and sacrifice are an open invitation for everyone to come into a relationship with God. Matthew 11:28 shares Jesus’ words: “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus does not turn anyone away. He came to offer hope, healing, and salvation to all who believe in Him.

What Jesus Means for Us Today

As a new believer, you can find comfort in knowing that Jesus is always with you. He loves you unconditionally, forgives your sins, and offers you a fresh start. His teachings give us a blueprint for living a life of love, service, and devotion to God. Jesus is not only our Savior but also our example and guide. When we follow Him, we walk in God’s light and experience His peace and joy.

Embracing Jesus as Your Savior

Understanding who Jesus is and His role as Savior helps us grasp the depth of God’s love. Jesus came to bridge the gap between us and God, offering forgiveness and a new life through His sacrifice. By accepting Jesus, we receive the greatest gift—eternal life and a relationship with God.

If you are just starting your journey with Jesus, know that you are deeply loved and never alone. Jesus promises to walk alongside you, guiding and strengthening you as you grow in your faith.