Few names in history have had as much impact as Jesus. Whether you’re religious or not, the influence of Jesus of Nazareth is undeniable. He is the central figure of Christianity, mentioned in nearly every religion, and a subject of endless historical and theological discussion. But amid centuries of interpretation and global belief systems, the question remains: Who is Jesus?
Jesus in the Bible
The primary source for understanding Jesus is the Bible, particularly the four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. According to these texts, Jesus was born in Bethlehem to Mary, lived in Nazareth, and began His public ministry around the age of 30. He taught about love, forgiveness, and the coming Kingdom of God.
He performed miracles, healed the sick, and challenged religious hypocrisy. Ultimately, He was crucified under Roman authority and, according to Christian belief, rose from the dead three days later.
Historical Evidence for Jesus
Most historians agree that Jesus was a real historical figure. Non-Christian sources like Tacitus, Josephus, and Pliny the Younger mention Him, affirming that He lived, was crucified, and had a significant following. While miracles and divinity are debated in academic circles, His existence and impact are not.
Who Did Jesus Claim to Be?
What sets Jesus apart from other moral teachers is that He didn’t just teach about God, He claimed to be God. In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, “Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58), echoing God’s name in Exodus.
He called Himself the Son of God, the Messiah, and the Way, the Truth, and the Life. These claims ultimately led to His crucifixion, as religious leaders saw them as blasphemous.
Why Jesus Matters
To Christians, Jesus is more than a prophet or wise teacher. He is the Savior of the world, the one who reconciles humanity with God. His death is believed to have paid the penalty for sin, and His resurrection offers the promise of eternal life.
Even beyond faith, Jesus’ teachings on love, humility, and mercy have shaped cultures, inspired social movements, and influenced laws and ethics across centuries.
Jesus in Other Religions
Jesus is also respected in Islam, where He is known as Isa, a prophet born of the Virgin Mary. He is seen as a messenger of God, though not divine. In Judaism, Jesus is regarded as a historical figure but not the Messiah. In Hinduism and Buddhism, He is sometimes viewed as a holy teacher or enlightened being.
His wide recognition speaks to His universal impact.
Is Jesus Still Relevant Today?
For millions, Jesus is not just a figure from ancient history, He is alive, personal, and life-changing. His teachings continue to speak to modern issues: forgiveness in the face of injustice, peace in times of anxiety, and hope amid despair.
Churches, humanitarian efforts, and spiritual awakenings across the globe still center on His life and message.
How to Know More About Jesus
If you’re curious about Jesus, the best place to start is with the Gospels in the New Testament. You can also explore biographies, scholarly works, and testimonies from people who claim their lives were changed by Him.
More than a name in a book, Jesus invites each person into a relationship, not just religion.
So, who is Jesus? He is a teacher, a healer, a Savior, a historical figure, and for Christians, God in human form. Whether you approach Him with faith or curiosity, His life and legacy continue to challenge, inspire, and transform the world.
The journey to understanding Jesus is not just about information, it’s about transformation. The answer to “Who is Jesus?” may change how you see everything else.
