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Study Notes: Did Jesus Claim to Be God? (Part One – The Claim)

John 10:22-25

Introduction

The belief that Jesus claimed to be God is foundational for many Christians. However, not everyone agrees, including some groups claiming Christian heritage who deny Jesus Christ's divinity. Today, we'll examine what the Bible says and what Jesus himself said about this matter.

Critics and Alternative Beliefs

Some argue that Jesus never claimed to be God, suggesting that his divinity was a concept developed by early followers. Several religious groups challenge Jesus' divinity:

Jehovah's Witnesses: They believe Jesus is a created being, specifically the archangel Michael.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons): They view the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost as distinct beings, with Jesus being one of many sons of God.
Christian Science: Founded by Mary Baker Eddy, this group teaches that Jesus was a human who demonstrated the divine ideal.
Unitarian Church: They traditionally reject the Trinity, seeing Jesus as a moral teacher rather than a divine being.

Other groups include:

The Way International: A Catholic sect that views Jesus as a uniquely empowered human.
Christadelphians: They deny Jesus' deity and the doctrine of the Trinity.
The New Church (Swedenborgianism): Founded in reaction to Lutheranism, they follow the teachings of Emmanuel Swedenborg.

Jesus’ Response

Jesus responded, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me." This response indicates that Jesus had already made his claim clear through his words and works.

Key passages in John that show how Jesus identified himself:

John 4:25-26: Jesus tells the woman at the well, "I who speak to you am he," explicitly identifying himself as the Messiah.
John 9:35-37: After healing a man born blind, Jesus says, "You have seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you," identifying himself as the Son of God.
John 5:17-18: Jesus says, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working," making himself equal with God.
John 8:58: Jesus declares, "Before Abraham was born, I am!" using the divine name "I am" to assert his pre-existence and deity.
John 20:27-28: After his resurrection, Jesus tells Thomas to touch his wounds, leading Thomas to proclaim, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus does not correct him, accepting the declaration of his deity.

Jesus’ Public Pronouncements

John 7:37-38: "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink."
John 8:12: "I am the light of the world."
John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd."

Conclusion

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Did Jesus Claim to Be God (Part One – Th...