Unpacking the Divinity of Jesus Christ
A staggering 97% of evangelical Christians affirm the doctrine of the Trinity, yet nearly 80% also believe Jesus to be a created being. This paradox highlights the need for solid teaching on Christ’s divinity. Let’s explore ten essential aspects of early divine Christology found in Scripture.
Eternal Existence: A Divine Attribute
To be fully divine, one must exist forever. The New Testament affirms Jesus’ eternal existence in various ways. John’s Gospel teaches that Jesus “came from above” and had glory with the Father in heaven before time began (John 3:31; 6:38, 51; 8:23; 17:5). Paul also emphasizes Jesus’ preexistence in heaven before his incarnation (Col. 1:17; 1 Cor. 15:47; Eph. 4:9-10; Gal. 4:4; 1 Tim. 1:15; 3:16).
Old Testament Signs of Christ’s Preexistence
Given Jesus’ preexistence, it’s not surprising to find hints of his presence in the Old Testament. Paul describes the water-providing rock in the wilderness as “Christ” (1 Cor. 10:4), and Jude connects Jesus to the angel of the Lord who led the Israelites out of Egypt (Jude 5). John even states that Isaiah’s grand vision of the Lord’s glory was actually a glimpse of Christ (John 12:41).
Jesus’ Unique Relationship with the Father
Skeptics often argue that Jesus didn’t claim to be God. While he may not have explicitly stated his divinity, he made exceptional claims about his relationship with the Father. Jesus addressed God as “Abba” (Mark 14:36) and “my Father” (Matt 26:53; Luke 22:29; John 5:17), emphasizing their unique bond.
New Testament Authors Apply Divine Titles to Jesus
The New Testament authors didn’t hesitate to apply divine titles to Jesus. Mark quotes Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3, both of which refer to the Lord, but applies them to Jesus (Mark 1:1-2). Acts 2:21-38 reorients the “call upon the name of the Lord” from Joel 2:28-32 to focus on calling on the name of Jesus Christ.
Worship and Divine Honors Given to Jesus
The earliest Christians treated Jesus as divine, worshiping him and attributing divine honors to him. Prayer is offered to Jesus (1 Cor. 16:22; Acts 1:24), and songs are sung to him (Rev 5:9). Christian worship ordinances are performed in his name, and church discipline is carried out in his authority (1 Cor. 5:4-5).
The Holy Spirit’s Relationship with Jesus
Jesus’ relationship with the Holy Spirit further underscores his divinity. His earthly ministry was empowered by the Spirit (Matt. 3:16; 12:28; John 20:22), and he exercises the divine role of pouring out the Spirit (Joel 2:28–29; Acts 2:32–33).
Four Key Passages Demonstrating Jesus’ Divinity
Four major passages demonstrate the full deity and humanity of Jesus Christ: John 1:1–18; Philippians 2:5–11; Colossians 1:15–20; and Hebrews 1:1-14. Mastering these texts can deepen one’s understanding of the New Testament teaching on this topic.
Conclusion
The high Christology found in the later creeds of Christendom is not a late innovation but rather a reflection of the earliest Christology found in Scripture. Jesus’ divinity is displayed repeatedly throughout the pages of Scripture, affirming the importance of recognizing and worshiping him as the Son of God.
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