Who is Jesus Christ and what is his mission?

Who Is Jesus Christ and What Is His Mission?

1. Scriptural Names and Titles

Throughout the New Testament, various names and titles highlight Jesus Christ’s identity. He is called the “Son of God” (Mark 1:1), testifying to His divine nature and oneness with God. He is also frequently referred to as the “Son of Man” (Matthew 9:6), a title that emphasizes His humanity and echoes the prophetic usage in Daniel 7:13. In John 1:29, He is called the “Lamb of God,” pointing to His role in sacrificial atonement. These titles collectively convey the scriptural portrayal of a Messiah who is fully God and fully man.

2. The Eternal Word and Creator

John 1:1–3 affirms that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This passage indicates that Jesus is the eternal Word, pre-existent and active in creation: “Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made.” Gleaning from ancient manuscript evidence—such as early papyrus fragments (e.g., P52, dating back to the first half of the second century)—scholars confirm that the original representation of Jesus as Creator is preserved accurately in today’s biblical texts.

3. Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy

Centuries prior to Jesus’ birth, multiple Old Testament prophecies pointed to a coming Messiah. These include details about His lineage (Genesis 49:10), the place of His birth (Micah 5:2), and His salvific mission (Isaiah 53). The Gospel accounts record Jesus’ fulfillment of these predictions. For instance, Matthew 2:5–6 cites Micah’s prophecy regarding Bethlehem. In the same manner, the Suffering Servant prophecies of Isaiah 53 find their realization in Jesus’ crucifixion and atoning death, described in Mark 15 and supported by a chain of manuscript testimony dating to the early centuries of the church.

4. Historical and Archaeological Corroboration

Beyond the biblical record, various historical and archaeological findings strengthen the case for the reliability of the Gospel narratives. Early non-Christian writers such as the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus (Antiquities of the Jews, Book 18) reference Jesus and His followers. Archaeological discoveries like the synagogue in Capernaum match specific details found in New Testament accounts describing where Jesus taught (Mark 1:21). The continuity of ancient manuscripts—exhibited by the thousands of catalogued Greek manuscripts—underscores the consistency and transmission fidelity of the biblical texts describing Jesus.

5. Mission of Redemption and Salvation

Jesus’ mission, as portrayed in the New Testament, centers on redemption from sin and reconciliation with God. Romans 5:8 says, “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Through this death and resurrection, humanity’s estrangement from God is bridged. According to the earliest Christian tradition, preserved in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4, His sacrificial death was “in accordance with the Scriptures,” and His resurrection on the third day validates both His identity and His mission.

6. The Resurrection: Historical and Spiritual Validation

The resurrection stands as the pivotal event authenticating Jesus’ claims, underscoring His victory over death. Paul writes that if Christ has not been raised, the Christian faith is futile (1 Corinthians 15:17). Yet the historically attested accounts—spanning multiple books of the New Testament—testify to His post-resurrection appearances. Early creeds recorded by Paul appear within mere years after the events, indicating a belief that did not evolve over centuries but was present among eyewitnesses. Modern discussions by scholars highlight the empty tomb and numerous eyewitness testimonies as credible evidence upholding the resurrection as a factual occurrence.

7. Teacher, Healer, and Miracle Worker

Scripture presents Jesus as a profound teacher (Mark 1:22), performing miracles and healings that displayed divine authority. In Matthew 14:14, when Jesus saw a large crowd, “He had compassion on them and healed their sick.” Scholarly research into reported miracles—historical and contemporary—adds corroborating anecdotal support to the notion that the miraculous has always been a hallmark of His mission. The Gospels uniformly record Jesus’ power over nature, sickness, and demonic forces, affirming that He not only taught with authority but demonstrated it in tangible ways.

8. The Kingdom of God

Jesus consistently announced the coming of the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:15). This kingdom is both a present reality, witnessed wherever people submit to God’s rule, and a future hope, culminating in eternal life. His teachings include the call to repentance, faith in God’s redemptive plan, and a new life oriented toward love for God and neighbor (Luke 10:27). The biblical manuscripts, preserved with remarkable accuracy, capture His message without contradiction or dilution.

9. The Ongoing Significance of His Mission

Scripture underscores that those who trust in Jesus for salvation experience a transformed relationship with God (John 3:16). This includes the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, enabling believers to grow in godly character and purpose. Jesus’ mission, furthermore, extends to the final restoration of all creation (Revelation 21:1–4). Archaeological and historical data continue to affirm that the Gospels remain credible in conveying this hope and final victory.

10. Conclusion: The Ultimate Redeemer and Risen Lord

From manuscript evidence, archaeological findings, and the coherent testimony of Scripture, Jesus Christ stands revealed as the eternal Son, the promised Messiah, and the risen Lord who accomplishes humanity’s reconciliation to God. His mission is to save and to restore, drawing people into fellowship with God and guiding them to live for His glory. In short, He is the only means of salvation, and His victorious resurrection offers eternal hope to all who believe.