Launch Verse
📖 Colossians 1:15–17
“15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
The Big Idea
Jesus is not just a teacher, prophet, or good example but He is God in the flesh. Fully God, fully man. He came not only to reveal who God is, but to reconcile us to Him. Understanding who Jesus is changes everything because if He is who He says He is, then He is Lord of all.
Biblical Blueprint
🔹 Greek: Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς) — “Yahweh saves”
His name points to His mission: God saves. Jesus is the Messiah, the promised Savior sent to redeem His people.
🔹 Hebrew: Yeshua (יֵשׁוּעַ) — “Salvation”
The name Jesus carries God’s heart for rescue. From Genesis to Revelation, the entire Bible points to Him.
Who Is Jesus According to Scripture?
🔸 He is fully God – John 1:1–3, 14
“In the beginning was the Word… and the Word was God… and the Word became flesh…”
Jesus is not a created being, He is the Creator, co-equal with the Father and the Spirit.
🔸 He is fully man – Philippians 2:6–8
“He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death — even death on a cross.”
Jesus entered our pain, weakness, and temptation yet remained without sin.
🔸 He is the only Savior – John 14:6
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Not one of many ways but the only way.
Common Misunderstandings
- ❌ “Jesus was just a good moral teacher.”
→ His own claims don’t allow that for He claimed to be God. (John 8:58 – “Before Abraham was, I am”) - ❌ “Jesus and God are separate.”
→ Jesus is the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15), part of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Spirit. - ❌ “Jesus only came to be nice or set an example.”
→ He came to save sinners (Luke 19:10) and His example flows from His mission.
Why It Matters
Who you believe Jesus is determines everything about your faith, purpose, and eternity.
- If He is God, He is worthy of your worship
- If He is Savior, He is worthy of your trust
- If He is King, He is worthy of your obedience
You don’t get to define Jesus, you respond to the One who defined you.
Application Questions
- Do I truly know Jesus or just know about Him?
- Is He just part of my life or the One I build everything around?
- Where in my life am I resisting His Lordship?
Closing Prayer
Jesus, You are not just my example but You are my everything. Thank You for entering my world, carrying my sin, and conquering death. Help me to know You more deeply, trust You more fully, and follow You more faithfully. In Your name, amen.