Jesus Is Not God
Many people equate Jesus with God, yet a deeper look at the scriptures suggests a distinction between the two. This concept isn’t just about semantics; it goes to the very heart of understanding the nature of the relationship between Jesus, the Son, and Yahweh, the Father.
To ground this discussion, we can look at the biblical narratives that outline this differentiation. For instance, in the Gospel of John, it is clear when Jesus says, ‘The Father is greater than I’ (John 14:28), it indicates a hierarchy with Jesus, the son of man being less than Yahweh (God). Moreover, Jesus’ prayer life, such as in John 17, reveals his communication with Yahweh (God the father) as separate from himself.
Historical interpretations of Jesus’ role and nature reveal a range of beliefs. From the earliest councils of the church, debates on Jesus’ humanity and divinity raged, leading to established doctrines that aimed to clarify this relationship. Once the doctrine of the trinity was firmly established no variation was allowed. Heretics did not fare well. But now, in this day and time, by Yahweh’s grace, we are able to review and study the contents of the bible. We can freely consider how in two thousand years of Jesus worship; the kingdom of Yahweh has not advanced in earth. It becomes evident that the identity and work of Jesus can’t be fully realized without understanding and appreciating what they mean for all the son’s of men, who choose to become the sons of God (Yahweh).
Yahweh’s Steward: Jesus’ Mission as Defined by His Father
If you open the pages of the New Testament, you’ll repeatedly encounter passages that emphasize Jesus’ role in relation to God, his Father. Rather than standing as a divine entity, Jesus is depicted doing the will of Yahweh, working towards goals that align with Yahweh’s Kingdom in earth agenda. His miracles, parables, and actions all serve as individual threads in a tapestry woven by Yahweh’s design.
The Gospels, particularly the synoptic ones — Matthew, Mark, and Luke — provide a picture of Jesus being attuned to his Father’s instructions. From the miraculous healings to the teaching of the parables, every work performed by Jesus can be seen as a response to his divine mission. It’s as if each time Jesus stretched out his hand to heal, or teach, or preach, he was unveiling a section of Yahweh’s overarching plan.
But it goes deeper; scripture paints a compelling portrait of Jesus as a vessel through which Yahweh’s will is enacted in Earth. For instance, in John 14:10, Jesus states, ‘The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work.’ This is not merely Jesus reflecting God’s will, but embodying it completely. Yahweh has a home in the son of man converted into the son of God. Yahweh lives in the temple of the son of God. Jesus is not a god with god powers but a mere son of man, who has become a son of God, and turned over his life and entire being to Yahweh. Like Beyonce calls Sasha Fierce to perform on stage, Jesus calls on Yahweh to live his life – that’s how they have become one.
The verses that lay bare the separation of knowledge between Jesus and the Father serve as stark markers of the distinction of Jesus as not God but the son of man. Mark 13:32 candidly reveals Jesus’ own admission of ignorance regarding the end times: ‘But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.’ This distinction in awareness marks a clear line between the omniscience traditionally associated with Yahweh (God) and the limited knowledge attributed to Jesus.
These biblical accounts are not anomalies but rather consistent depictions of Jesus acting in a capacity that reinforces his status as a separate entity from Yahweh, operating under Yahweh’s divine guidance, but without the comprehensive knowledge and authority. He has the authority to do certain things in earth but not to do everything that the Father can.
Jesus never directed people to pray to him
According to the Gospels, Jesus consistently directed his followers to address their prayers to ‘Our Father’. He presented a model prayer, now commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer, which begins with an invocation to the Father, not to himself. This emphasis on praying to God the Father is a significant element in understanding how Jesus perceived his relationship with Yahweh and, by extension, how his followers are to engage with Yahweh (the Father).
The poignancy of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane serves as a deeply human moment within the New Testament. Facing imminent suffering, Jesus appeals to Yahweh, asking for the cup of suffering to be taken away. Yet, it’s what follows that sheds light on the nature of his submission: ‘Yet not my will, but yours be done’. This intimate plea exemplifies the depth of Jesus’ commitment to fulfilling Yahweh’s plan, even in the face of personal anguish.
Such an action doesn’t merely reflect subservience; it demonstrates an alignment of wills—where the human desire of the son of man (Jesus) aligns with the divine purpose of God the Father (Yahweh). This distinction between human will and divine will is the very essence of what we must know to become a son of God and therefor one with Yahweh. Jesus like every son of man had a dual nature of doing evil and of doing good. Jesus shows us by example how to choose the will of the Father over our own.
The Gospels consistently presents clear instances where Jesus differentiates himself as the son of man from the omnipotent, knowledge and authority that is Yahweh, reinforcing the concept of being the son of God (Yahweh) via his subordination to the Father’s authority and will.
Understanding the ‘Son of Man’ and ‘Son of God’: Titles and their Significance
The titles ‘Son of Man’ and ‘Son of God’ carry profound meanings within the Bible. To comprehend their significance, let’s think about the ways these designations are used in biblical narratives and how they contribute to the understanding of Jesus’ identity. If you consider the ‘Son of Man’, it’s a term Jesus frequently uses to refer to himself, particularly in the Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It emphasizes his ordinary humanity, his own suffering and redemption as it is for all sons of men for “none are good but one.” The title identifies him as one of us.
On the other hand, ‘Son of God’ identifies Jesus as the Father’s son, which is evidenced by his humility and service. The Gospel of John presents multiple instances where this title affirms Jesus’ close relationship with the Father, declaring unity in achieving Yahweh’s will and purpose in earth.
As we delve into the complexities surrounding Jesus’ earthly mission and its influence on us today, we must remain aware that diverse interpretations are bound to be the result and welcome them into our study. The truth does not fear misinterpretations, mistakes, or lies.
Hello, You provide a compelling examination of the relationship between Jesus and God, showing the distinction between them through biblical passages and historical context. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of Jesus as a vessel for God’s will rather than being God Himself. The exploration of Jesus’ prayers, teachings, and titles adds depth to the discussion, encouraging readers to reflect on the complexities of religious interpretation. Overall, it sparks valuable contemplation on the nature of divinity and the significance of Jesus’ role in Christian theology. well done.
I am among the few who hold this unique perspective. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
Well written essay, but I tend to disagree at least to some degree. The equality of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit is a foundational belief in Christian theology. While each person of the Trinity has distinct roles and functions, they share the same divine essence, power, and authority. The Incarnation of Jesus and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit further emphasize their equality. The interconnectedness and unity within the Trinity highlight the mutual love and cooperation between the three persons. Understanding and embracing the equality of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the Christian faith.
Thank you for your comments. I really appreciate hearing a variety of viewpoints. The only trinity I am aware of is the trinity of Yahweh; the father, the Holy Spirit; the mother and each son of man (adam) as their child. That’s the relationship every person actually has. It has nothing to do with church doctrine just the experience of regular people who follow the way of Jesus, pray, listen to the voice of our mother the Holy Spirit and follow the laws and do the will of our Father, Yah.
Hi this is very eye-opening read. I like how you mentioned that it’s all about people’s interpretations. People tend to have a set way of looking at things like you said the preconceived notion is that Jesus is good. But that is preconceived. People haven’t even actually taking the time to read about it and think about it and come up with their own conclusions.
I believe that is precisely what we should do: take the time to read, research, and reflect on the Bible to understand its true message. Thank you for your comment.
Absolutely, diving deeper into this discussion is fascinating. Considering the intricate layers of theology and belief systems, it’s intriguing to ponder how this interpretation of Jesus’ relationship with God resonates with modern Christianity.
In today’s world, where diverse interpretations and perspectives abound, understanding Jesus as distinct from God challenges traditional notions of the Trinity and prompts reflection on the nature of divinity and human connection with the divine.
One aspect that strikes me is the implications for prayer and devotion. If Jesus directed his followers to pray to the Father rather than himself, how does this inform contemporary prayer practices? Does it encourage a more direct and personal relationship with God, bypassing intermediary figures?
Moreover, the emphasis on Jesus as the “Son of Man” and “Son of God” highlights the humanity and humility of Jesus, inviting believers to contemplate their own relationship with God and the significance of Jesus’ example in aligning human will with divine purpose.
In a world where spirituality is often multifaceted and individualized, exploring these theological nuances can enrich our understanding of faith and deepen our connection to the divine. It’s a testament to the enduring relevance of biblical teachings and the ongoing evolution of religious thought.
How do you think these insights into Jesus’ identity and mission resonate with the broader Christian community today, and what implications might they have for the future of Christian theology and practice?
Hi Hanna, thanks for your question. The bible tells us that the time would come when all will know Yahweh (God) (Jeremiah 31:34 and Hebrews 8:11). Jesus’ mission was not just to demonstrate for us how to live a life centered on God but also to remove the veil and allow all people to have direct access to Yahweh (God) without the need for any intermediary figures. God created us to have a relationship with him and reflect his image in earth. We can only do those things when we know him for ourselves.
Regarding the broader Christian community, their future is uncertain. Jesus himself struggled with the religious leaders of his time. He was the way and did not establish a new religion, so it’s unclear if Christianity will endorse individuals studying the Bible and finding personal relevance in it. What I understand is that studying the Bible goes beyond reading ancient stories about a man and his twelve companions. It involves recognizing ourselves in the disciples, including those who, out of fear or greed, betrayed their friend. These are experiences we encounter in our own lives today. By heeding the Holy Spirit, the word of Yahweh (God), and engaging with the Bible, we can avoid such temptations. We will not merely read the Bible; we will live it.