Introduction:
In the realm of religious beliefs, there exists a debate within the Islamic faith regarding the nature of Jesus. While Muslims recognize Jesus as a great prophet without sin and a messenger of God, they diverge on the concept that Jesus is the Son of God. Additionally, there is disagreement about the crucifixion, with some believing that another person, resembling Jesus, was mistakenly crucified in his place. This article seeks to delve into these differences, offering a Christian perspective on why Jesus is considered God.
The Muslim Perspective:
In Islamic beliefs, Jesus is revered as a significant prophet, emphasizing his sinlessness and role as a messenger of God. However, the core divergence lies in the rejection of Jesus as the Son of God and the denial of his crucifixion for the redemption of humanity. Muslims contend that another individual, resembling Jesus, bore the cross in his place.
The Christian Response:
Christians counter this perspective, emphasizing Jesus’ role as more than a prophet. Central to this belief is the idea that if Muslims regard Jesus as holy and sinless, how could he allow an innocent man to die on his behalf? The Christian perspective urges an understanding of spiritual truths, asserting that divine matters are comprehended through spiritual discernment.
Why Christians Believe Jesus Is God:
1. God Became Man to Save Man:
Jesus identified himself as God, claiming the power to save humanity. The belief is grounded in the understanding that only a supernatural being could save mankind. In John 8:56-59, Jesus refers to Abraham rejoicing at the prospect of his coming, hinting at his divine nature. His statement, “Before Abraham was born, I am,” serves as a powerful declaration of his divinity.
2. God Rose from the Dead:
The resurrection is a pivotal aspect of Christian faith. It is asserted that only God has the ability to rise from the dead, triumphing over death. Jesus, by allowing his own death, achieved multiple objectives, including paying humanity’s debt, obtaining the keys to death, and reclaiming authority from the devil. His victory over the grave solidifies the belief that Jesus is God.
How Does the Kingdom Manifest:
1. Unconquerable Life Modeled by Jesus
Jesus demonstrated a life that death could not conquer. Believers carry within them the power over sickness and sin, drawing strength from the
unconquerable life of Jesus. This understanding instills confidence, affirming that followers of Christ will not be defeated.
2. Empowered to Administer Kingdom:
Jesus not only modeled an unconquerable life but also empowered believers to administer the kingdom. Christians are seen as representatives of God’s power, carrying the authority to bring forth the kingdom of God wherever they go. The divinely bestowed power enables believers to operate in the fullness of their rights within the kingdom.
1.In John 1:12 says “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.”
In this verse, John is emphasizing the transformative power of belief in Jesus. It suggests that those who receive and believe in Jesus are granted the authority or “right” to become children of God. This is not a mere legal entitlement but a spiritual empowerment, signifying a profound relationship with God as His children. The idea is that through faith in Jesus, believers gain access to a special status, a familial connection with God.
2. In Colossians 1:12:says “Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.”**
This verse from Colossians expresses gratitude to God the Father for qualifying believers to share in the inheritance reserved for the saints in the kingdom of light. The term “made us meet” means God has enabled or qualified us. It highlights the divine action of preparing believers to partake in the spiritual blessings and rewards that come with being part of God’s family. This qualification is not based on human merit but on God’s grace and the redemptive work of Christ.
3. Romans 8:17:says “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”**
This verse in Romans underscores the incredible truth that believers are not only children of God but also heirs, sharing in the inheritance alongside Christ. The concept of joint-heirs with Christ implies that believers participate in the same spiritual blessings, promises, and glory that Christ himself enjoys. The condition mentioned, “if so be that we suffer with him,” refers to the shared experience of hardship and challenges in the Christian journey, recognizing that suffering is part of the broader narrative that leads to ultimate glory.
Understanding the Significance:
These verses collectively emphasize the profound privilege and identity of believers in Christ. They highlight the transformative power of faith, the qualification granted by God, and the shared inheritance with Christ. The concept of being children of God, qualified to partake in His inheritance, and recognized as joint-heirs with Christ reflects the depth of God’s love and the intimate relationship He desires with those who believe in His Son.
The idea behind God’s divinity, as expressed through these verses, is to demonstrate the extent of His power to transform and elevate humanity. By inviting individuals into a familial relationship with Him, qualifying them for a divine inheritance, and making them joint-heirs with Christ, God reveals His intention to share His eternal blessings and glory with those who choose to believe in and follow His Son. These verses affirm the believers’ identity and position in the kingdom of God, showcasing the richness of the spiritual heritage that comes with being part of God’s family.
Conclusion:
The debate between Islamic and Christian perspectives on Jesus reflects the diversity of religious beliefs. Christians assert that Jesus is not merely a prophet but God incarnate, providing a path to salvation. The belief in Jesus as Lord is grounded in his divine identity, as expressed in his own words and demonstrated through the resurrection. This understanding of Jesus as God is not only a theological concept but a source of empowerment for believers to live unconquerable lives and administer the kingdom of God on earth. As individuals grapple with these theological differences, the essence of faith and understanding remains at the heart of the discussion.
