Jesus Christ was a real person who lived about 2000 years ago. But what was it about this man that has resulted in such a devoted following by so many people for so long? He was not just another itinerant Jewish preacher. Nor was he God himself come down from heaven in human form. He was the Son of God sent to save the world.

A unique person

Jesus is unique in many ways.

• He has God as his father and a human mother (Mary). In this way he is both “Son of God” and “Son of man”. Like any son, Jesus inherited some of the characteristics of his father; he showed us what his father is like (John 14:9).
• He also inherited characteristics from his mother and was a human being. Although he experienced all the usual human temptations, he never did anything wrong.

  [Jesus] has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)
   

• He died but rose again to live forever.

  For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. (Romans 6:9)
   

• He now lives in heaven with his Father (Acts 7:55).

The teacher

The life of Jesus Christ is recorded in the Bible. Jesus was unlike the religious leaders of the day – “he taught as one having authority” (Matthew 7:29). When Jesus spoke people were captivated by his words. His parables are now famous – he spoke about ordinary things that his listeners could relate to. Who can forget the parables of the “Good Samaritan” and the “Prodigal Son”? Jesus was the greatest teacher of all time.

His message

Jesus taught about a coming world empire in which he would be king. This ‘gospel’ or ‘good news’ also involved a way of living which Jesus showed by example. It was a way of giving yourself for others, a life of true worth and self-sacrifice, but one that would have at the end an eternal reward. His message is simple.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:28–29)
 

His death

Jesus suffered a cruel death at the hands of the Jews and Romans. He endured pain and humiliation which the Bible says was necessary because God, his father, loved the human race.

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)
 

Jesus is still alive

The amazing thing about Jesus is that he is still alive and will be back on earth again soon! Make sure you are ready to greet him!