Jesus in Christianity

Jerusalem Holy Sepulchre BW 22

Sargis Pitsak

Geertgen tot Sint Jans, The Nativity at Night, c 1490

Luca signorelli, comunione con gli apostoli, cortona

Ostromir Gospel 1

Christ Taking Leave of the Apostles

Jesus in Christianity refers to the central figure around whom the Christian religion is based. Christians believe Jesus to be the Son of God and the Messiah (Christ) prophesied in the Hebrew Bible, which is the Old Testament in the Christian Bible. The beliefs about Jesus vary among different Christian denominations, but central to all is the belief in his Crucifixion, Resurrection, and the salvation he brings.

Life and Teachings

The primary sources of information about Jesus' life and teachings are the four Gospels of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These texts cover his birth, ministry, death, and resurrection, providing a narrative that forms the foundation of Christian faith.

Birth

Jesus' birth, known as the Nativity, is celebrated around the world on Christmas. According to the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah's lineage.

Ministry

Jesus' ministry began when he was around 30 years old and included teaching, performing miracles, and gathering disciples. His teachings focused on love, compassion, forgiveness, and the coming of the Kingdom of God. Parables were a common method Jesus used to convey his messages.

Death and Resurrection

The central event in Jesus' life, according to Christianity, is his Crucifixion on orders from Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. Christians believe that Jesus' death was a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, offering salvation to all who believe. His Resurrection three days later is celebrated on Easter, affirming his divinity and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Theological Significance

Jesus' teachings and actions are interpreted through various theological lenses. Key concepts include:

• Incarnation: The belief that God became flesh in the person of Jesus.
• Atonement: The doctrine that Jesus' death reconciled humanity with God.
• Trinity: The belief in one God in three persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit.

Impact on Culture and Society

The influence of Jesus extends beyond religious boundaries, impacting art, literature, music, and social ethics. His teachings on love, peace, and justice have inspired movements for social change and humanitarian efforts throughout history.

Denominational Views

Different Christian denominations hold various beliefs about Jesus, including his nature, his role in salvation, and his second coming. Despite these differences, Jesus remains the cornerstone of Christian faith across denominations.

See Also

• Christianity
• History of Christianity
• Biblical canon
• Early Christian views of Jesus
• Council of Nicaea