Discovering Jesus: Who is Jesus Christ?

What Does the Bible Say About Who Jesus Is?

The New Testament, particularly the Gospels, introduces us to Jesus as the Son of God and the Son of Man. In the Gospel of John, we read, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). This passage underscores Christ Jesus’ divine nature, affirming His existence from the very beginning with God. Further in John 1:14, it states, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” Here, the mystery of the Incarnation is revealed, where Jesus, though fully divine, took on human form to live among us.

In the Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—Jesus is depicted as the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. His teachings, miracles, and compassion reveal His divine authority and His mission to bring salvation to all. Matthew 16:16 records Peter’s confession, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God,” a declaration that Jesus Himself affirms.

Moreover, the titles attributed to Jesus in the Bible are rich with meaning. He is called the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29), emphasizing His role as the sacrificial offering for our sins. He is the “Good Shepherd” (John 10:11), who lays down His life for His sheep, illustrating His care and sacrifice. Jesus is also referred to as the “Light of the World” (John 8:12), guiding us out of darkness into the light of God’s truth.

The apostle Paul, in his epistles, provides deep theological insights into who Jesus is. In Philippians 2:6-7, Paul writes, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” This passage highlights Jesus’ humility and obedience, even unto death, emphasizing His role in God’s redemptive plan.

Summary:

• The Bible presents Jesus as both divine and human.
• Jesus is the eternal Word of God who became flesh (John 1:1, 14).
• He is the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.
• Titles such as Lamb of God, Good Shepherd, and Light of the World describe His roles.
• Apostle Paul emphasizes Jesus’ humility and obedience (Philippians 2:6-7).

What Are the Key Prophecies in the Old Testament That Point to Jesus Christ?

The prophecy in Genesis 3:15, often called the Protoevangelium, is the first hint of the coming Messiah. It speaks of the offspring of the woman who will crush the serpent’s head, symbolizing Jesus’ ultimate victory over sin and Satan.

Isaiah’s prophecies are particularly rich with Messianic hope. In Isaiah 7:14, we read, “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” This prophecy points directly to the virgin birth of Jesus, emphasizing His divine origin. Isaiah 9:6-7 further describes the Messiah: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” These titles reflect the multifaceted nature of Jesus’ mission and character.

In the book of Micah, we find the prophecy of Jesus’ birthplace: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2). This prophecy pinpointed Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah, fulfilled in the nativity of Jesus.

The suffering servant passages in Isaiah, especially Isaiah 53, provide a vivid depiction of the Messiah’s suffering and sacrificial death. Isaiah 53:5 says, “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” This passage foretells Jesus’ atoning sacrifice on the cross, highlighting the redemptive purpose of His suffering.

Psalm 22, written by King David, also contains striking parallels to Jesus’ crucifixion. Verses like “They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment” (Psalm 22:18) were vividly fulfilled during Jesus’ crucifixion, as recorded in the Gospels.

Summary:

• Genesis 3:15 hints at Jesus’ victory over sin.
• Isaiah 7:14 and 9:6-7 prophesy the virgin birth and titles of Jesus.
• Micah 5:2 foretells Bethlehem as Jesus’ birthplace.
• Isaiah 53 describes the suffering servant and Jesus’ atoning death.
• Psalm 22 parallels Jesus’ crucifixion.

What Are the Main Teachings of Jesus Christ as Recorded in the Gospels?

One of the central themes of Jesus’ teaching is the Kingdom of God. In Mark 1:15, Jesus proclaims, “The time has come… The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” This announcement calls us to recognize God’s reign in our lives and to align our actions with His will.

The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5-7, encapsulates many of Jesus’ core teachings. Here, Jesus offers the Beatitudes, which describe the blessedness of those who embody the values of God’s kingdom—humility, mercy, purity of heart, and peacemaking. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44), to forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15), and to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Jesus also uses parables to illustrate profound spiritual truths. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) teaches us about love and compassion for our neighbor, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries. The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) reveals God’s boundless mercy and forgiveness, welcoming us back when we repent.

In John’s Gospel, Jesus presents Himself as the “Bread of Life” (John 6:35), the “Light of the World” (John 8:12), and the “Good Shepherd” (John 10:11), using these metaphors to explain His role in our spiritual nourishment, guidance, and protection. He also emphasizes the necessity of love: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). This commandment encapsulates the essence of Jesus’ teaching, urging us to reflect His love in our interactions with others.

Furthermore, Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith and prayer. In Mark 11:22-24, He teaches about the power of faith and prayer, encouraging us to trust in God’s ability to work miracles in our lives. He models this in His own life, often retreating to pray and staying in close communion with the Father.

Summary:

• Jesus proclaims the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:15).
• The Sermon on the Mount outlines key teachings, including the Beatitudes (Matthew 5-7).
• Parables like the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son illustrate love and forgiveness.
• Jesus uses metaphors to describe His role (John 6:35, 8:12, 10:11).
• The commandment to love one another (John 13:34) is central to His teachings.
• Jesus emphasizes faith and prayer (Mark 11:22-24).

Why Is the Crucifixion of Jesus Central to Christian Faith?

The Gospels detail the crucifixion as the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry. In Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, and John 19, we see the narrative of Jesus’ suffering, death, and His profound final words. His crucifixion was not a tragic end, but a purposeful act to fulfill God’s redemptive plan.

The apostle Paul profoundly explores the significance of the cross in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 1:18, he writes, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” This paradox highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice, which, though seemingly a defeat, is the ultimate victory over sin and death.

Isaiah 53:5 prophecies this redemptive act: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Jesus’ suffering on the cross fulfilled this prophecy, providing the means for our healing and peace.

The crucifixion is also a profound demonstration of God’s love. John 3:16 famously states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The cross is the ultimate expression of this divine love, offering salvation to all who believe.

In addition, Jesus’ crucifixion is central to the concept of atonement. Paul explains in Romans 3:25-26, “God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness.” Jesus’ death satisfied the requirements of divine justice, allowing God to be both just and the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus.

The crucifixion also serves as a model of sacrificial love for Christians. Jesus’ willingness to endure the cross calls us to take up our own crosses in following Him, as He taught in Luke 9:23, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Summary:

• The crucifixion is the culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
• It represents the ultimate act of love and sacrifice, fulfilling God’s redemptive plan.
• Paul highlights the power and significance of the cross (1 Corinthians 1:18).
• Isaiah 53:5 prophesies Jesus’ suffering for our healing and peace.
• John 3:16 underscores the cross as the expression of God’s love.
• The cross is central to the concept of atonement (Romans 3:25-26).
• Jesus’ crucifixion models sacrificial love for Christians (Luke 9:23).

What Is the Importance of the Resurrection of Jesus for Christians?

The Gospels recount the resurrection with great emphasis. In Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and John 20, we see the empty tomb and the appearances of the risen Christ. These accounts confirm that Jesus triumphed over death, providing a foundation for our faith and hope.

Paul articulates the centrality of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.” The resurrection is essential because it confirms that Jesus is who He claimed to be—the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Without the resurrection, the Christian faith would be devoid of its transformative power and assurance of salvation.

The resurrection also assures us of our own future resurrection. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” Jesus’ resurrection is a promise that we, too, will be raised to eternal life.

Furthermore, the resurrection empowers us to live transformed lives. Romans 6:4 states, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” The resurrection is not only a future hope but a present reality that enables us to live in the power of the risen Christ.

The resurrection also affirms Jesus’ victory over sin and death. As Paul proclaims in Romans 4:25, “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” The resurrection demonstrates that Jesus’ sacrifice was accepted by God, ensuring our justification and reconciliation with Him.

Summary:

• The resurrection confirms Jesus’ divinity and the truth of His teachings.
• It assures us of our own future resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).
• The resurrection empowers us to live transformed lives (Romans 6:4).
• It demonstrates Jesus’ victory over sin and death, ensuring our justification (Romans 4:25).

How Do Christians Understand the Concept of Jesus as Both Fully God and Fully Man?

The doctrine of the Incarnation, which means “to become flesh,” is rooted in the biblical narrative. John 1:14 declares, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This verse reveals the mystery of the Incarnation, where Jesus, the eternal Word, took on human nature without ceasing to be divine.

In the early Church, this doctrine was articulated and defended against various heresies. The Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD affirmed that Jesus is “one and the same Christ, Son, Lord, only-begotten, recognized in two natures, without confusion, without change, without division, without separation.” This definition underscores the unity and distinction of Jesus’ divine and human natures.

Jesus’ divinity is clearly presented in the Gospels. In John 10:30, Jesus states, “I and the Father are one,” affirming His divine nature and unity with God the Father. His miracles, such as calming the storm (Mark 4:39) and raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:43-44), further demonstrate His divine authority.

Simultaneously, Jesus’ humanity is evident throughout the Gospels. He was born of the Virgin Mary, as prophesied in Isaiah 7:14 and fulfilled in Matthew 1:23. He experienced hunger (Matthew 4:2), thirst (John 19:28), weariness (John 4:6), and sorrow (John 11:35). These human experiences allowed Jesus to fully identify with us in our struggles and temptations, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).

The union of Jesus’ divine and human natures is essential for our salvation. As fully God, Jesus has the power to save us. As fully man, He can represent us before God. Paul explains in 1 Timothy 2:5, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” Jesus’ unique nature bridges the gap between God and humanity, making reconciliation possible.

Summary:

• The doctrine of the Incarnation is rooted in the Bible (John 1:14).
• The Council of Chalcedon affirmed Jesus’ two natures.
• Jesus’ divinity is demonstrated in His unity with the Father and His miracles.
• Jesus’ humanity is shown in His birth, experiences, and emotions.
• The union of His natures is essential for our salvation and mediation (1 Timothy 2:5).

What Is the Role of Jesus Christ in the Trinity?

In the doctrine of the Trinity, Jesus Christ is recognized as the second person, the Son. This relationship is beautifully expressed in John 1:1-2, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.” Jesus, the Word, is both distinct from the Father and yet fully divine, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Jesus’ role in the Trinity is multifaceted. Firstly, He is the divine Logos, through whom all things were made. John 1:3 states, “Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” As the Creator, Jesus is integral to the act of creation, reflecting His divine authority and power.

Secondly, Jesus is the Redeemer. His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection are central to God’s plan of salvation. As Philippians 2:6-8 describes, Jesus, “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” Through His sacrificial death and victorious resurrection, Jesus reconciled humanity to God, fulfilling His role as our Savior.

Thirdly, Jesus is the Mediator. In 1 Timothy 2:5, Paul writes, “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” As both fully God and fully man, Jesus bridges the gap between humanity and God, making intercession for us.

Moreover, Jesus is the revealer of the Father. He declares in John 14:9, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” Through His life and teachings, Jesus reveals the nature and character of God to us, embodying divine love, mercy, and justice.

Finally, Jesus will fulfill His role in the Trinity as the Judge. In John 5:22, Jesus says, “Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son.” At the end of times, He will return to judge the living and the dead, completing His divine mission.

Summary:

• Jesus is the second person of the Trinity, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
• He is the divine Logos, involved in creation (John 1:1-3).
• Jesus is the Redeemer, central to God’s plan of salvation (Philippians 2:6-8).
• He is the Mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).
• Jesus reveals the Father to us (John 14:9).
• He will judge the living and the dead (John 5:22).

How Is Jesus Portrayed in Early Christian Art and Iconography?

In the catacombs of Rome, some of the earliest Christian art depicts Jesus in symbolic forms. One common image is the Good Shepherd, often portrayed as a young man carrying a lamb on His shoulders. This image, found in places like the Catacomb of Priscilla, reflects Jesus’ words in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” It emphasizes Jesus’ care, guidance, and sacrificial love for His flock.

Another significant portrayal of Jesus in early Christian art is the “Christus Victor” image, depicting Him as a triumphant and divine ruler. This is seen in early mosaics, such as the one in the church of Santa Pudenziana in Rome. Here, Jesus is enthroned, holding a scroll, and surrounded by apostles, symbolizing His authority and victory over sin and death.

Early Christian iconography also includes scenes from Jesus’ life and ministry, such as the Nativity, the Baptism in the Jordan, the miracles, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection. These images served as visual narratives for believers, especially in a time when many were illiterate. For instance, the depiction of Jesus’ baptism in the Catacomb of Callixtus highlights His anointing by the Holy Spirit and His role as the beloved Son of the Father (Matthew 3:16-17).

The image of the cross, initially a symbol of suffering and shame, was transformed into a symbol of victory and hope in early Christian art. Crucifixes from this period often show a victorious Christ, emphasizing the triumph of the resurrection. The Crucifixion icon in the church of Santa Sabina in Rome depicts Jesus with eyes open, not defeated by death but reigning over it.

Moreover, the depiction of Jesus in the Eucharistic context is prevalent. Early Christian mosaics and frescoes often show Jesus instituting the Last Supper, highlighting His role as the giver of the New Covenant. This is vividly illustrated in the art of the Dura-Europos church, one of the earliest known Christian house churches.

Summary:

• Early Christian art depicted Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His care and love (John 10:11).
• The “Christus Victor” image portrays Jesus as a triumphant ruler.
• Scenes from Jesus’ life and ministry, such as the Nativity and Baptism, were common in early art.
• The cross, transformed from a symbol of suffering to one of victory, was central in Christian iconography.
• Jesus’ institution of the Last Supper is depicted in early Eucharistic art.

What Are Some Common Misconceptions About Jesus Christ?

One prevalent misconception is that Jesus was merely a great moral teacher, but not divine. Some view Him as an inspirational figure, akin to other religious leaders, whose teachings about love and ethics are valuable, but they deny His divinity. However, the Gospels clearly present Jesus as the Son of God. In John 10:30, Jesus declares, “I and the Father are one,” affirming His divine nature.

Another misconception is that Jesus’ mission was primarily political. Some believe that He came to overthrow Roman rule and establish a political kingdom. While Jesus’ teachings have profound social and political implications, His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). He came to inaugurate the Kingdom of God, a spiritual realm that transcends earthly politics.

A third misconception is that Jesus was merely a historical figure whose impact is limited to the past. While it is true that Jesus lived and ministered in first-century Palestine, His resurrection and ascension mean that He is alive today and active in the world through the Holy Spirit. As Hebrews 13:8 states, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Some also misunderstand Jesus’ relationship with the Law. They may think that Jesus came to abolish the Jewish Law. However, in Matthew 5:17, Jesus says, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Jesus fulfilled the Law by embodying its perfect righteousness and revealing its true intent.

Another common misconception is that Jesus’ message was one of prosperity and earthly success. This “prosperity gospel” suggests that faith in Jesus will lead to material wealth and health. However, Jesus taught about the cost of discipleship and the reality of suffering in the Christian life. In Luke 9:23, He said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

Lastly, some believe that Jesus’ teachings are exclusive to Christians and irrelevant to people of other faiths. While Jesus is the central figure of Christianity, His message of love, forgiveness, and redemption is universal. He calls all people to Himself, offering salvation to everyone who believes in Him (John 3:16).

Summary:

• Misconception: Jesus was only a great moral teacher, not divine.
• Misconception: Jesus’ mission was primarily political.
• Misconception: Jesus is merely a historical figure, not relevant today.
• Misconception: Jesus came to abolish the Jewish Law.
• Misconception: Jesus’ message promises prosperity and earthly success.
• Misconception: Jesus’ teachings are exclusive to Christians and irrelevant to others.

What Are the Historical Evidences for the Life and Works of Jesus Christ?

Firstly, the New Testament documents, especially the Gospels, are primary sources for the life and ministry of Jesus. Written within a generation of Jesus’ death, they provide detailed accounts of His teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. The historical reliability of these texts is supported by the numerous manuscripts and their consistency across different copies.

Beyond the biblical texts, there are references to historical Jesus in ancient non-Christian sources. The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, writing in the first century, mentions Jesus in his work “Antiquities of the Jews.” He refers to Jesus as a wise teacher who performed extraordinary deeds and was crucified under Pontius Pilate. Although some parts of this reference are debated among scholars, the core information aligns with the Gospel accounts.

The Roman historian Tacitus, writing in the early second century, also mentions Jesus in his “Annals.” He refers to “Christus” who suffered under Pontius Pilate during the reign of Tiberius, and notes the existence of Christians in Rome. This corroborates the New Testament timeline and the spread of Christianity.

Moreover, archaeological findings provide indirect evidence supporting the historical Jesus’ life. Excavations in locations such as Nazareth, Capernaum, and Jerusalem have unearthed artifacts and structures that align with descriptions in the Gospels. The discovery of the Pilate Stone in Caesarea, inscribed with the name of Pontius Pilate, affirms the historical accuracy of the Gospel accounts regarding the Roman governor who sentenced Jesus to crucifixion.

The early Church Fathers, such as Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, and Justin Martyr, provide additional early testimonies about Jesus and His impact. Their writings, which date back to the first and second centuries, reflect a continuity of belief and practice from the apostolic era, reinforcing the historical existence of Jesus.

Furthermore, the rapid spread of Christianity in the first century, despite severe persecution, testifies to the profound impact of Jesus’ life and teachings. The willingness of early Christians to suffer and die for their faith indicates their strong conviction in the historical reality of Jesus’ resurrection.

Summary:

• New Testament documents, especially the Gospels, are primary historical sources.
• Non-Christian sources, such as Josephus and Tacitus, corroborate the existence of Jesus.
• Archaeological findings support the historical context of Jesus’ life.
• Early Church Fathers provide additional testimonies about Jesus.
• The rapid spread of Christianity and the willingness of early Christians to die for their faith affirm the historical reality of Jesus.

How Has the Understanding of Jesus Christ Evolved Through the Teachings of the Church Fathers?

In the first few centuries, the Church Fathers focused on clarifying Jesus’ divinity and humanity. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, influenced by the teachings of Athanasius, affirmed the full divinity of Jesus, countering the Arian heresy that claimed Jesus was a created being and not co-eternal with the Father. The Nicene Creed, formulated at this council, declares Jesus as “begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father,” emphasizing His divine nature.

The Cappadocian Fathers—Basil the Great, Gregory of Nyssa, and Gregory of Nazianzus—further developed Trinitarian theology, explaining how Jesus, the Son, relates to the Father and the Holy Spirit within the Godhead. Their work was crucial in defending the doctrine of the Trinity and articulating the concept of Jesus’ eternal generation from the Father.

The Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD, shaped by the teachings of Leo the Great, provided a definitive statement on the nature of Christ. The Chalcedonian Definition declared that Jesus is “one person in two natures,” fully God and fully man, “without confusion, without change, without division, without separation.” This formulation resolved many Christological controversies and established a clear orthodox understanding of Jesus’ dual nature.

Augustine of Hippo, one of the most influential Church Fathers, contributed significantly to Christology through his writings. In his work “On the Trinity,” Augustine explored the relationship between Jesus’ human and divine natures and emphasized the role of Jesus as the mediator who bridges the gap between God and humanity.

The early Church Fathers also addressed soteriological questions—how Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection accomplish salvation. Anselm of Canterbury, in the medieval period, developed the satisfaction theory of atonement in his work “Cur Deus Homo” (Why God Became Man). He argued that Jesus, being both God and man, was uniquely able to satisfy the demands of divine justice and bring about reconciliation between God and humanity.

The teachings of the Church Fathers have also enriched our understanding of the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Cyril of Jerusalem and John Chrysostom, among others, emphasized the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, shaping the Church’s liturgical and sacramental theology.

Summary:

• The Church Fathers clarified Jesus’ divinity and humanity.
• The Council of Nicaea (325 AD) affirmed Jesus’ full divinity.
• The Cappadocian Fathers developed Trinitarian theology.
• The Council of Chalcedon (451 AD) defined Jesus as fully God and fully man.
• Augustine of Hippo explored the relationship between Jesus’ natures and His mediating role.
• Anselm of Canterbury developed the satisfaction theory of atonement.
• The Church Fathers enriched sacramental theology, particularly the Eucharist.

How Does the Relationship with Jesus Christ Shape the Life and Spirituality of a Christian?

Firstly, a relationship with Jesus invites us into a life of prayer and intimacy with God. Jesus Himself modeled a life of prayer, often retreating to solitary places to commune with the Father (Luke 5:16). He taught us to pray with simplicity and trust, as in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). Through prayer, we develop a personal connection with Jesus, experiencing His presence and guidance in our daily lives.

Secondly, Jesus’ teachings shape our moral and ethical conduct. His command to love one another as He has loved us (John 13:34) becomes the foundation of our interactions. This love is not merely an emotion but a commitment to act justly, show mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Following Jesus means embodying the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) and striving to live out the virtues of humility, compassion, and forgiveness.

A relationship with Jesus also calls us to a life of service. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that true leadership is found in serving others (John 13:14-15). He identified with the least of these, teaching that in serving the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned, we are serving Him (Matthew 25:31-46). This service is a tangible expression of our faith and love for Christ.

Moreover, being in relationship with Jesus provides us with a sense of purpose and mission. Jesus commissioned His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey all that He commanded (Matthew 28:19-20). As Christians, we are called to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, witnessing to His transformative power in our lives and inviting others to experience His love and grace.

Our relationship with Jesus also offers us hope and resilience in the face of trials. Jesus promised His presence and peace, even in times of suffering (John 16:33). By trusting in His promises and relying on His strength, we can endure hardships and find joy and peace that surpass understanding (Philippians 4:7).

Finally, a relationship with Jesus shapes our spiritual practices, particularly through participation in the sacraments. The Eucharist, in which we partake of Jesus’ body and blood, unites us with Him and with one another in a profound communion (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). Baptism, confirmation, confession, and other sacraments are means of grace that deepen our relationship with Jesus and the Church.

Summary:

• A relationship with Jesus invites us into a life of prayer and intimacy with God.
• Jesus’ teachings shape our moral and ethical conduct (John 13:34).
• This relationship calls us to a life of service (John 13:14-15, Matthew 25:31-46).
• Being in relationship with Jesus provides purpose and mission (Matthew 28:19-20).
• It offers hope and resilience in trials (John 16:33, Philippians 4:7).
• Our relationship with Jesus shapes our spiritual practices, especially through the sacraments.

References:

John 14:6

John 8:58

John 17:5