Jesus of Nazareth is regarded as a historical figure who lived in the first century. He is admired as a teacher of high ethics. But is he God as Christians claim?
Jesus Claimed to be God
Jesus had been teaching that he had come to lay down his life as an atoning sacrifice to secure forgiveness for his people. He presents himself as the saviour of the lost, the giver of eternal life. He then makes a statement that amazes those who were listening: “I and the Father are one.”
Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?” “We are not stoning you for any of these,” replied the Jews, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.” (John 10:30-33)
At no time did Jesus correct or modify their remark. They had clearly understood him. He is saying he is God.
The miracles he performed were his credentials. And it was to his miracles that he pointed people in order for them to know that he is who he claimed to be.
So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jews persecuted him.
Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” For this reason the Jews tried all the harder to kill him; not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. (John 5:16-18)
Again, Jesus made no attempt to correct or modify their remarks. They had clearly understood him to be claiming to be God.
What the Bible Says
The Bible is abounding with affirmations that Jesus is indeed God. Here are just a few examples:
“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:5-8)
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men…while we wait for the blessed hope — the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:12-13)
Conclusion
The miracles demonstrate that Jesus was God for only God could do what he did. Jesus died to forgive our sins and only God can forgive sins. Jesus accepted the worship given to him and only God is to be worshipped.
There is only one conclusion: Jesus is indeed God.