“Jesus is God:” an Argument

Some Preliminaries before the Introduction Proper

Below, I will provide a detailed explanation and argument (a thesis really) for the claim that Jesus is God from a biblical theology perspective. However, it is crucial to be specific and clarify our understanding of identity, as modern notions may not adequately capture the concept as understood in biblical times. This paper aims to bridge the conceptual gap between the modern and ancient notions of identity, enabling a comprehensive analysis grounded in biblical texts. Before delving into the argument, it is essential to define what we mean by “Jesus is God” to ensure coherence throughout the paper.

When I speak of Jesus’ identity as the biblical God, I’m referring to his essential nature and being (without some kind of essentialism it’s kind of hard to make any identity claim about the biblical portrayal of Jesus). It encompasses his divine essence, his unity with God the Father, and his manifestation of divine attributes. This understanding surpasses the idea of mere human elevation or representation of God and affirms that Jesus is ontologically and fundamentally one with the divine nature.

The synthesis of Jesus’ unity, participation, manifestation, and presentation within the divine nature provides compelling evidence for this identity, as we will explore in the following sections. It demonstrates that Jesus is not merely a representative or messenger of God, but rather the embodiment and incarnation of God Himself. Through his unity with the divine nature, active participation in divine actions, manifestation of divine attributes, and presentation of the divine nature to humanity, Jesus reveals himself as the very essence of the biblical God.

This understanding aligns with the theological assertions of the New Testament, which consistently affirm Jesus’ divine nature and his unique relationship with God. It contributes to the broader Christian belief in the deity of Jesus, emphasizing his integral role in the divine plan of salvation and inviting humanity to enter into a transformative relationship with God.

Therefore, when I assert that the synthesis of Jesus’ unity, participation, manifestation, and presentation within the divine nature provides compelling evidence for his identity as the biblical God, it is to affirm that Jesus is not merely a human figure with a divine role, but rather the embodiment and manifestation of the divine nature itself. This understanding invites us to encounter and worship Jesus as the living God, shaping our understanding of his significance in the Christian faith.

I. Introduction

A. Introduction to the topic: Jesus’ identity as the biblical God and the synthesis of unity and conceptual flipping.

The identity of Jesus Christ has been a central and complex topic of theological inquiry throughout history. Among the various perspectives, the understanding of Jesus as the biblical God has been a cornerstone of Christian belief. This understanding goes beyond viewing Jesus as a mere human being elevated to a divine status. Instead, it asserts that Jesus is the incarnation of the divine in human form. To comprehend this profound aspect of Jesus’ identity, it is necessary to explore the synthesis of unity and conceptual flipping within the New Testament’s portrayal of Jesus.

B. Thesis statement: Jesus’ identity as the biblical God finds its foundation in his unity with the divine nature, his active participation in it, his manifestation of its attributes, and his presentation of it to humanity. The synthesis of these three fundamental biblical concepts – participation, manifestation, and presentation – within the essential unity of Christ with the divine nature is powerfully reinforced by the teachings of the New Testament.

At the core of Jesus’ identity as the biblical God lies a profound unity with the divine nature. This unity transcends simplistic categorizations, going beyond a mere human figure with divine attributes. Through conceptual flipping, the New Testament authors creatively reimagined prevalent cultural, religious, and philosophical concepts, blending Jewish and Hellenistic thought to articulate the nature of Jesus’ divine identity. Within this context, Jesus actively participates in the divine nature, shares in its attributes, and engages in divine actions. He manifests the divine attributes, embodying and representing the qualities and characteristics of the divine. Furthermore, Jesus presents the divine nature to humanity, revealing and making known God’s character and purposes.

This paper will explore these dimensions of Jesus’ identity, demonstrating how unity with the divine nature, active participation in it, manifestation of its attributes, and presentation of it to humanity coalesce to establish Jesus as the biblical God. Let us delve into biblical examples to gain a deeper understanding of these concepts and the theological implications they hold.

Throughout the New Testament, we encounter passages that highlight Jesus’ unity with the divine nature. One such example is found in John 10:30, where Jesus declares, “I and the Father are one,” indicating a profound unity with God. This unity is not merely a metaphysical concept, but a relational and ontological bond that signifies Jesus’ inherent connection to the divine.

Additionally, we witness Jesus’ active participation in the divine nature through his engagement in divine actions. In Matthew 9:1-8, Jesus forgives a paralyzed man’s sins and heals him, showcasing his divine power and authority. By exercising the prerogative to forgive sins, Jesus demonstrates his participation in the divine act of redemption and restoration.

Furthermore, Jesus manifests the divine attributes in his person and actions. In Colossians 1:15, he is described as the “image of the invisible God,” highlighting his role as the perfect representation of the divine nature. Through his teachings, miracles, and righteous life, Jesus exemplifies divine attributes such as love, wisdom, and holiness, giving tangible expression to the divine in human form.

Moreover, Jesus presents the divine nature to humanity, making known God’s character and purposes. In John 14:9, Jesus tells his disciples, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father,” underscoring his role as the ultimate revelation of God to humanity. Through his teachings, life, and sacrificial death, Jesus reveals the true nature of God’s love, grace, and mercy, drawing humanity into a deeper understanding of the divine.

In the synthesis of unity and conceptual flipping within the identity of Jesus, we find a profound and transformative understanding of the biblical God. This exploration provides insights into the nature of Jesus’ divine identity and its implications for Christian faith and theology. By discerning the unity of Jesus with the divine nature, his active participation, manifestation, and presentation, we uncover the rich tapestry of the biblical narrative and the profound truths it unveils.

As we embark on this journey of discovery, let us approach the subject with open hearts and minds, ready to explore the depths of Jesus’ identity as the biblical God and the theological implications it holds. Through careful analysis of biblical examples and the process of conceptual flipping, we witness the interconnectedness of unity and diversity within the identity of Jesus and gain a renewed appreciation for the divine mystery that unfolds in the person of Christ.

For further reading and over 30 examples of the New Testament writers doing conceptual flipping with common notions of their milieu to support the idea that Jesus is God-in some sense-please refer to my paper on the issue here: “Jesus is God” as a New Testament Study – RobertDryer

II. Unity with the Divine Nature

A. Definition of unity with the divine nature: The concept of Jesus’ oneness with the divine essence.

Jesus’ identity as the biblical God is rooted in a profound unity with the divine nature. This unity extends beyond a superficial association or mere sharing of attributes. It signifies a deep and inseparable bond between Jesus and God, encompassing their essence, purpose, and character. Within this unity, Jesus is not merely a human being elevated to a divine status, but rather the incarnation of the divine in human form.

B. Biblical examples:

1. John 10:30 – Jesus’ statement, “I and the Father are one,” highlights the profound unity between Jesus and God. In this verse, Jesus asserts his inseparable connection to the Father, emphasizing their shared nature and purpose. This unity is not based on a temporary or conditional relationship, but a fundamental and eternal bond that transcends human understanding.

2. Colossians 2:9 – In this passage, Paul declares that in Jesus “the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.” It emphasizes the complete unity of Jesus with the divine nature. Here, we see that Jesus is not a partial or diminished representation of the divine, but rather the embodiment of the totality of God’s being. This unity extends to the very essence of Jesus’ existence, as he fully and completely manifests the divine nature in human form.

C. Analysis: Discussing how Jesus’ unity with the divine nature goes beyond mere human elevation and represents the incarnation of the divine in human form.

The unity of Jesus with the divine nature is a central aspect of his identity as the biblical God. It goes beyond a mere association or sharing of attributes, representing a profound and inseparable bond between Jesus and God. The biblical examples of John 10:30 and Colossians 2:9 illustrate this unity, emphasizing the oneness and completeness of Jesus’ connection to the divine.

Jesus’ statement in John 10:30 affirms his inseparable unity with the Father, underscoring their shared nature and purpose. This unity is not a temporary or conditional arrangement but an eternal and unbreakable bond. It signifies the intimate relationship between Jesus and God, rooted in their divine essence.

In Colossians 2:9, Paul emphasizes that in Jesus, the fullness of deity dwells bodily. This highlights the complete unity of Jesus with the divine nature. Jesus is not a diminished or partial representation of God, but rather the embodiment of the totality of God’s being. His unity with the divine nature extends to the very core of his existence, enabling him to fully manifest and express the divine in human form.

Through this unity with the divine nature, Jesus transcends the boundaries of humanity and becomes the incarnation of the divine. This understanding goes beyond a mere elevation of a human being to a divine status. Instead, it asserts that Jesus, in his unity with the divine, represents the very essence and presence of God in human form. It is through this unity that Jesus fulfills the promises of the Old Testament, reveals the nature of God’s love and redemption, and provides the ultimate expression of divine grace and mercy.

Jesus’ unity with the divine nature is a fundamental aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 10:30 and Colossians 2:9 illustrate the profound oneness and completeness of Jesus’ connection to the divine. This unity goes beyond human elevation and represents the incarnation of the divine in human form. It is through this unity that Jesus reveals the nature of God, offers salvation to humanity, and invites us into a transformative relationship with the divine.

III. Participation in the Divine Nature

A. Definition of participation in the divine nature: Jesus actively sharing in the attributes and actions of the divine.

Jesus’ identity as the biblical God is not limited to a passive association with the divine. It goes beyond a mere resemblance or imitation of divine qualities. Instead, Jesus actively participates in the divine nature, sharing in its attributes, characteristics, and actions. This active participation signifies his intimate connection to the divine and highlights his unique role in fulfilling the divine plan.

B. Biblical examples:

1. John 1:1-3 – In these verses, Jesus is described as the Word through whom all things were made. This portrayal emphasizes his active participation in the divine act of creation. By being the agent of creation, Jesus demonstrates his inherent connection to the divine and his involvement in the divine work. This participation extends beyond a passive role and highlights Jesus’ active engagement in the divine plan.

2. Hebrews 1:3 – The author of Hebrews describes Jesus as the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of God’s being. This depiction signifies Jesus’ active participation in the divine nature. As the radiance of God’s glory, Jesus manifests the brilliance and majesty of the divine. Moreover, as the exact representation of God’s being, Jesus embodies and reflects the very essence of God. This active participation in the divine nature highlights Jesus’ unique role as the visible manifestation of the invisible God.

C. Analysis: Discussing the significance of Jesus’ active participation in the divine nature for understanding his identity as the biblical God.

Jesus’ active participation in the divine nature is a significant aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 1:1-3 and Hebrews 1:3 illustrate this participation, highlighting Jesus’ involvement in the divine plan and his intimate connection to the divine attributes.

In John 1:1-3, Jesus is portrayed as the Word through whom all things were made. This portrayal emphasizes his active role in the divine act of creation. By being the agent of creation, Jesus not only demonstrates his inherent connection to the divine but also reveals his active engagement in fulfilling the divine plan. This participation signifies Jesus’ intimate involvement in the divine work of creation.

Hebrews 1:3 further emphasizes Jesus’ active participation in the divine nature. The description of Jesus as the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of God’s being highlights his manifestation of divine attributes and qualities. As the radiance of God’s glory, Jesus reflects the brilliance and majesty of the divine. Additionally, as the exact representation of God’s being, Jesus embodies and represents the very essence of God. This active participation in the divine nature enables Jesus to reveal the nature and character of God to humanity.

The active participation of Jesus in the divine nature is significant for understanding his identity as the biblical God. It goes beyond a mere resemblance or imitation and highlights his active engagement in fulfilling the divine plan. Jesus’ participation in the divine nature demonstrates his intimate connection to the divine attributes, actions, and purposes. It is through this active participation that Jesus reveals the nature of God, carries out the divine mission of redemption, and offers salvation to humanity.

Jesus’ participation in the divine nature is a crucial aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 1:1-3 and Hebrews 1:3 illustrate his active engagement in the divine plan and his intimate connection to the divine attributes. This active participation signifies Jesus’ unique role in revealing the nature of God and fulfilling the divine purpose. It invites us to recognize the depth of Jesus’ identity as the embodiment of the divine and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

IV. Manifestation of Divine Attributes

A. Definition of manifestation of divine attributes: Jesus displaying the qualities and characteristics of the divine nature.

Jesus’ identity as the biblical God is further affirmed through his manifestation of divine attributes. These attributes are not merely imitations or borrowed qualities, but genuine displays of the divine nature. Jesus embodies and exemplifies the qualities and characteristics that are inherent to God, providing a tangible representation of the divine for humanity.

B. Biblical examples:

1. John 14:9 – In this passage, Jesus responds to Philip’s request to show them the Father by saying, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.” This statement highlights the profound manifestation of divine attributes in Jesus. By seeing Jesus, one directly encounters the divine presence and experiences the qualities and characteristics of God. Jesus serves as the visible manifestation of the invisible Father, displaying the divine attributes to humanity.

2. Colossians 1:15 – The apostle Paul describes Jesus as the image of the invisible God. This description emphasizes Jesus’ role as the visible representation of God’s character and essence. As the image of the invisible God, Jesus manifests and reflects the divine attributes to humanity. He displays the qualities and characteristics of God, allowing us to grasp the nature and character of the divine through his visible manifestation.

C. Analysis: Discussing how Jesus’ manifestation of divine attributes affirms his identity as the biblical God.

The manifestation of divine attributes in Jesus is a significant aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 14:9 and Colossians 1:15 highlight this manifestation, demonstrating how Jesus displays the qualities and characteristics of the divine nature.

In John 14:9, Jesus asserts that seeing him is equivalent to seeing the Father. This statement underscores the profound manifestation of divine attributes in Jesus. By observing Jesus’ life, teachings, and actions, one directly encounters the divine presence and experiences the qualities and characteristics of God. Jesus serves as the visible representation of the invisible Father, making the divine nature tangible and accessible to humanity.

Colossians 1:15 further emphasizes Jesus’ manifestation of divine attributes. Describing him as the image of the invisible God, Paul affirms Jesus’ role as the visible representation of God’s character and essence. As the image of the invisible God, Jesus embodies and reflects the divine attributes to humanity. He displays the qualities and characteristics that are inherent to God, allowing us to comprehend and connect with the nature and character of the divine through his visible manifestation.

The manifestation of divine attributes in Jesus affirms his identity as the biblical God. It goes beyond a mere imitation or resemblance, as Jesus genuinely displays the qualities and characteristics that are intrinsic to the divine nature. Through his life, teachings, and actions, Jesus offers a tangible representation of God to humanity. His manifestation of divine attributes allows us to grasp the nature and character of the divine, providing a transformative encounter with the biblical God.

Jesus’ manifestation of divine attributes is a significant aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 14:9 and Colossians 1:15 illustrate his profound display of divine qualities and characteristics. Jesus serves as the visible representation of the invisible God, making the divine nature tangible and accessible to humanity. Through his manifestation of divine attributes, Jesus offers a transformative encounter with the biblical God, inviting us to experience the profound depths of the divine nature.

V. Presentation of the Divine Nature to Humanity

A. Definition of presentation of the divine nature: Jesus revealing and making known the divine nature to humanity.

Jesus’ identity as the biblical God is further solidified through his presentation of the divine nature to humanity. Through his words, actions, and teachings, Jesus unveils and communicates the nature, character, and purposes of God, offering humanity a direct encounter with the divine.

B. Biblical examples:

1. John 1:14 – The Gospel of John describes Jesus as the Word made flesh. This imagery illustrates Jesus’ role in presenting the divine nature in human form. By taking on human flesh and dwelling among us, Jesus brings the divine nature close to humanity, making it tangible and accessible. Through his incarnation, Jesus becomes the embodiment of the divine, presenting the divine nature in a way that humans can perceive and comprehend.

2. Colossians 1:15-20 – In this passage, Paul writes about Jesus’ supremacy and role in creation. He describes Jesus as the image of the invisible God and the one in whom all things hold together. This portrayal emphasizes Jesus’ presentation of the divine nature, revealing God’s invisible qualities and sustaining presence to humanity. Through Jesus, humanity can behold the divine attributes and understand the cosmic significance of God’s redemptive plan.

3. Hebrews 1:1-3 – The author of Hebrews begins by affirming that God has spoken to humanity through the prophets in the past. However, in these last days, God has spoken to us through his Son, Jesus. The Son is described as the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of God’s being. This passage highlights Jesus’ role as the ultimate presenter of the divine nature, surpassing all previous revelations. Through Jesus, humanity receives the fullness of God’s self-revelation.

C. Analysis: Discussing the significance of Jesus’ presentation of the divine nature in revealing God’s character and purposes to humanity.

The presentation of the divine nature by Jesus is a pivotal aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 1:14, Colossians 1:15-20, and Hebrews 1:1-3 highlight this aspect, demonstrating how Jesus reveals and communicates the divine nature to humanity.

In John 1:14, the concept of the Word made flesh reveals Jesus’ role in presenting the divine nature in human form. Through his incarnation, Jesus brings the divine nature close to humanity, making it tangible and accessible. As the embodiment of the divine, Jesus presents the divine nature in a way that humans can perceive and comprehend. He becomes the bridge between the divine and human realms, revealing God’s character and purposes in a manner that is relatable and understandable.

Colossians 1:15-20 further emphasizes Jesus’ role in presenting the divine nature to humanity. Paul portrays Jesus as the image of the invisible God, signifying his manifestation of God’s character. Through Jesus, humanity gains a clear and tangible revelation of God’s qualities and attributes. Jesus’ sustaining power and redemptive work demonstrate the divine nature and its impact on creation. The presentation of the divine nature through Jesus in Colossians highlights the cosmic significance of God’s revelation.

Hebrews 1:1-3 underscores Jesus’ ultimate role as the presenter of the divine nature. The author emphasizes that God has spoken to humanity through his Son, who is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of God’s being. This passage elevates Jesus’ revelation above all previous prophetic messages. Through Jesus, humanity receives the fullness of God’s self-revelation, experiencing the brilliance of God’s glory and the depth of his being.

The significance of Jesus’ presentation of the divine nature lies in its ability to reveal God’s character and purposes to humanity. Through Jesus, humanity gains direct access to the divine, experiencing the love, grace, and truth of God in a tangible and personal way. Jesus’ presentation of the divine nature offers a profound revelation of God’s essence, inviting humanity into a transformative encounter with the biblical God.

Jesus’ presentation of the divine nature is a significant aspect of his identity as the biblical God. The biblical examples of John 1:14, Colossians 1:15-20, and Hebrews 1:1-3 illustrate his role in revealing and communicating the divine nature to humanity. Through his incarnation, sustaining power, and ultimate revelation, Jesus brings the divine nature close, making it tangible and accessible to humanity. His presentation invites humanity into a transformative relationship with God, revealing God’s character and purposes in a way that is accessible and life-giving.

VI. Conclusion and Reflection on this Thesis in Relation to Full Interval Trinity Theory (FITT)

A. Recap of the main points: Throughout this analysis, we have explored key aspects of Jesus’ identity as the biblical God. We have examined Jesus’ unity with the divine nature, his active participation in it, his manifestation of divine attributes, and his presentation of the divine nature to humanity.

B. Reiteration of the thesis statement and its alignment with the theological assertions of the New Testament: Jesus’ identity as the biblical God is rooted in his unity with the divine nature, his active participation in it, his manifestation of its attributes, and his presentation of it to humanity. This understanding aligns with the theological assertions of the New Testament, which consistently portray Jesus as divine, emphasizing his unique relationship with God.

The New Testament presents Jesus as more than a mere human being elevated to a divine status. It reveals him as the incarnation of the divine in human form, demonstrating his unity with the divine nature. Through the process of conceptual flipping, the New Testament authors creatively repurpose Jewish and Hellenistic concepts to articulate Jesus’ divine identity and his intimate connection with God.

C. Reflection on the broader implications and significance of Jesus’ identity as the biblical God: The recognition of Jesus as the biblical God has profound implications for Christian faith and theology. It affirms the unique nature of Jesus’ person and work, highlighting his role as the divine Savior and the embodiment of God’s redemptive plan.

Understanding Jesus’ identity as the biblical God deepens our appreciation for the depth of God’s love and his desire to be in relationship with humanity. It invites us to encounter God through Jesus, experiencing his grace, mercy, and truth. Jesus’ unity, participation, manifestation, and presentation within the divine nature provide a lens through which we can understand the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives.

Furthermore, recognizing Jesus as the biblical God challenges us to follow his teachings, imitating his example of love, compassion, and selflessness. It calls us to enter into a personal relationship with the divine, allowing the transformative power of the divine nature to shape and guide us.

In conclusion, the synthesis of Jesus’ unity, participation, manifestation, and presentation within the divine nature provides compelling evidence for his identity as the biblical God. This understanding aligns with the theological assertions of the New Testament and contributes to the broader Christian belief in the deity of Jesus. Embracing Jesus as the biblical God invites us into a deeper understanding of God’s nature, a transformative relationship with the divine, and a life marked by love, purpose, and eternal significance.

In Relation to the Full Interval Trinity Theory (FITT) and model of God we’ve been presenting here on RobertDryer.com, there’s much to say. But in general it comports well with the model of the Trinity I’ve been presenting here. As a recap, FITT: Full Interval Trinity Theory is a formalized model of God expressed in the two interchangeable expressions: (3)PA[DivAP, DivIO]=[Actus Purus, Immanentia Omnis]. The left side would be if you condensed the traditional expression of the Trinity into a mathematical function, and the right side is giving a model of God properly that harmonizes the classical view of God (“classical theism”) with the doctrine of the Trinity. Together, it demonstrates in a properly analytic way or model of God.

Crucial to FITT is answering the question what a divine person is in Trinitarianism. The definition we use in congruence with FITT is here… Persons (in Trinitarian theology): The three distinct realities—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—within the one God of Christian belief. In the context of the convention T = [AP, IO], the Persons are seen as pure agencies (PA=DivAP*DivIO), each fully actualizing all divine potentials (DivAP) in an infinitely open manner (DivIO). This framework allows each Person to fully present, represent, and manifest the immanent reality of the transcendent qualities they embody. They each fully express the divine nature’s transcendent aspects within their unique relational identities.

In light of the foundational concepts, each divine Person also participates in an ongoing relational conversation, reflecting a relational ontology. They intimately interpenetrate one another in a perichoretic dance of mutual indwelling, reflecting a unique divine communion. The relationship between the Father and the Son is additionally characterized by eternal generation, emphasizing the dynamic actualization of divine potentiality in relational context. Despite their relational distinctness, they all share in the unity of the divine essence, upholding the foundational unity-in-diversity that characterizes the Trinity. These relations and interactions are not bound by temporal, spatial, or sensory constraints, reflecting the infinite openness of their being. (Cheesy metaphors used for simplicity’s sake.)

Jesus is God

In relation to Jesus’ identity as the biblical God, the definition of FITT and divine Persons in Trinitarian theology aligns with the understanding that Jesus is one of the divine Persons within the Trinity. Jesus, as the Son, fully expresses and represents the immanent reality of the transcendent qualities of the divine nature. He is the actualization of the divine nature in the relational conversation and intimate interpenetration within the Trinity, reflecting the unique divine communion. The definition’s emphasis on the infinite openness of the divine essence and the actualization of all divine potentials resonates with Jesus’ unity, participation, manifestation, and presentation within the divine nature.

For more on my analytic model of the Trinity you can visit here: A Comprehensive Trinitarian Theology: Uniting Divine Simplicity and Relational Ontology – RobertDryer