Who is Jesus Christ

Who is Jesus Christ: Historical Context
Who is Jesus Christ? It’s a question as controversial as it is ancient. Even in his own day Jesus’ identity was a subject laced with controversy. So much so that Jesus posed the question to his disciples, who do people say I am? Their responses varied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets." So then, who is Jesus Christ?

Even in his own time and culture, Jesus was an enigma. His culture didn’t quite know what to make of him. Some called him a gifted teacher while others labeled him a rebel and revolutionist. Some declared him to be a great prophet while others said he was a demon-possessed lunatic. Some honored him, others worshipped him while many scoffed and walked away in disbelief. One thing is certain; Jesus didn’t quite fit anyone’s mold.

Who was Jesus has been a question with which generations of cultures have wrestled. Isn’t it interesting how some things just never seem to change? Since his lifetime, many varied answers to this question have been offered. Was Jesus a great prophet, a good example for us to live our lives by, or was he in fact something altogether different? To take a step closer to a meaningful answer, it’s helpful to know what Jesus had to say about himself.

Who is Jesus Christ: In His Own Words
So, who is Jesus in his own words? After he asked his disciples for this cultural opinion-poll regarding his identity, Jesus brought the question down to a more personal level, “who do you say I am?” It’s clear that Jesus wasn’t impressed with the answers drawn from his culture-at-large. His culture had watched from afar and their insights were distant and impersonal. His disciples, on the other hand, had spent the past 3 years living in close proximity to him. Perhaps they had better insights into his real identity. So, he steers his question in their direction.

Simon Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, responded with a unique perspective, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus’ response to Peter is interesting, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.” Jesus made a clear distinction between these two sets of answers. He indicated that the first set of answers came from the opinions of people. Yet, Peter’s answer, he declared, was revealed to him by God. Jesus affirmed Peter’s declaration as being correct. He was the Christ, God’s chosen deliverer, and even God come in human flesh.

This is only one of many things the Bible records that Jesus said about himself. His claims would be easily dismissed were it not for the things he did to back them up. The question of who is Jesus Christ remains a relevant one today not only because of what he said and taught. Jesus stands out as a pivotal figure in human history because of how he lived his life, how he died and perhaps most importantly because of what the historical records say happened following his death.

Who is Jesus Christ: Who is Jesus to You?
So, who is Jesus to you personally? Whatever history says about Jesus, whatever Jesus said about himself, whatever our culture says is true of him, it’s ultimately a question we must each answer for ourselves. And, how we answer this question will impact how we interpret life and respond to our daily circumstances. Because this question is so important, we’ve developed this website to help you find answers that are meaningful to you.

Finding meaningful answers to the question of who is Jesus Christ is more about a personal journey than it is a survey of public opinion. Because Jesus is so commonly misunderstood, this journey involves many dynamics and sources of information. Our goal is to help make that journey as simple and helpful as possible by bringing together many of these resources into a central location, here at Jesus Central.

In the pages ahead, you’ll find insights that help you find your own answers to this and other related questions. So, if you’re ready to start your journey to discover who is Jesus Christ, you’ll find some links below to help you get started.

1. Matthew 16: 13-20 – Jesus explores his identity with his disciples
2. John 4:4-26 – Jesus reveals his identity to the woman at the well
3. John 8:12-30 – Jesus defines his relationship to God the Father
4. John 10:22-42 – Jesus declares he is God
5. John 14:8-11 – Jesus says that those who saw him, saw the Father

1. Brief Life Summary: Who Was Jesus Christ?
2. What other community members say about Jesus
3. Eyewitnesses Describe Jesus