Jesus Christ (a 16-part study)

The sacrifice of Jesus is appreciated when we have an understanding of the sacrificial system practiced by the Jews for almost 1,500 years.

It is of interest to note that the most extensive recording of the birth of Jesus is undertaken by Luke, who was both an historian and physician. He states at the beginning of his gospel account that he made a thorough investigation of everything he has set about to record, interviewing those who had first-hand knowledge of the facts, checking them one against the other. And the most obvious source of his information concerning the birth of Jesus was Mary, Jesus' mother.

Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." (Matthew 16:23)

"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5). To understand this verse, we must examine it within its context where it appears in a discussion on salvation. It is God's holy desire to see the redemption of all people, not just the Jews or some elite group of Gentiles, but all people without exception.

If you were not a Christian, what would it take to convince you that Jesus is who he claimed to be? What evidence would you expect from one making such a claim?

Jesus of Nazareth is regarded as a historical figure who lived in the first century. He is admired as a teacher of high ethics. But is he God as Christians claim?

John the baptist identified Jesus with the words: "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29) His choice of words was deliberate, as a brief overview of part of the Old Testament reveals.

"For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. This is the wonderful message he has given us to tell others." (2 Corinthians 5:19 NLT)

"Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life." (John 3:14-15)

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:14-16)