Topical Bible: Jesus, the Christ: Divinity of Jehovah's Fellow and Equal

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Introduction

Jesus Christ, central to Christian theology, is recognized as both fully divine and fully human. His divinity is a cornerstone of Christian belief, affirming His identity as Jehovah's fellow and equal. This entry explores the scriptural basis for Jesus' divine nature, drawing from the Berean Standard Bible to illuminate key aspects of His identity.

Divine Nature and Pre-existence

The Gospel of John opens with a profound declaration of Jesus' divine nature: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This passage establishes Jesus, the Word, as pre-existent and co-eternal with God, affirming His divinity. Further, John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us," underscoring the incarnation of the divine Word in Jesus Christ.

Equality with God

Philippians 2:6-7 speaks to Jesus' equality with God: "Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness." This passage highlights Jesus' voluntary humility and incarnation, while affirming His inherent equality with God.

Jehovah's Fellow

Zechariah 13:7 prophetically refers to the Messiah as Jehovah's fellow: "Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the man who is My Companion," declares the LORD of Hosts. This term "Companion" or "Fellow" indicates a relationship of equality and shared nature with Jehovah, pointing to the divine status of the Messiah, fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Divine Titles and Attributes

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus is ascribed titles and attributes that affirm His divinity. In Revelation 1:8 , He declares, "I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and was and is to come—the Almighty." This title, "the Almighty," is a direct assertion of His divine power and eternal nature.

Jesus also possesses attributes unique to God, such as omniscience and omnipotence. In Matthew 28:18 , He proclaims, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me," indicating His supreme power and divine authority.

Worship and Divine Honor

The New Testament records instances where Jesus receives worship, a practice reserved for God alone. In John 20:28 , Thomas addresses the risen Christ as "My Lord and my God!" Jesus' acceptance of this worship further affirms His divine identity. Additionally, Philippians 2:10-11 declares, "At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Role in Creation and Sustenance

Colossians 1:16-17 attributes the work of creation to Jesus: "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible... all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage underscores Jesus' role as Creator and Sustainer, functions that belong to God alone.

Conclusion

The divinity of Jesus Christ is a foundational doctrine supported by numerous scriptural affirmations. As Jehovah's fellow and equal, Jesus embodies the fullness of God, participating in the divine nature and work, and receiving the worship and honor due to God alone.

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Zechariah 13:7
Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, said the LORD of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn my hand on the little ones.
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Philippians 2:6
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
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Library

Divine Sovereignty
... is, it is the effect of Jehovah's Sovereignty ... another one who always preaches
experimental divinity; and very ... and cannot preach much about Jesus Christ and him ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/divine sovereignty.htm

Exposition of the Doctrines of Grace
... is expressive of the infinite love of Jehovah's heart. ... of the atonement is the value
of our Lord Jesus Christ. ... can take man's place, and by his Divinity he can ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/exposition of the doctrines of.htm

Life in India.
... when I cannot convince men 'the government is on His shoulders?' Jesus is able ... strongly
express the doctrines of the Trinity and of the divinity of Christ. ...
/.../rhea/life of henry martyn missionary to india and persia/life in india.htm

The Tabernacle of the Most High
... Before Jehovah's awful throne. ... to the proclamation of the doctrine of the divinity
of Christ ... righteousness of God which is by faith in Christ Jesus, the doctrine ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 5 1859/the tabernacle of the most.htm

Hymns of Praise and Worship.
... His degree of Doctor of Divinity was bestowed upon him by Aberdeen University. ... To
Christ the Lord let every tongue. ... "ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS' NAME.". ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter i hymns of praise.htm