Jesus Christ is the greatest person who every lived. His moral character, His teachings, and His influence upon history demonstrate that He is indeed God. Through two thousand years of advancements in education, technology, philosophy, medicine, and science, mankind has never produced a person who is worthy to be compared with Jesus.
His divinity and humanity are without parallel. His life, death, and resurrection were mandatory for man's salvation. With His ascension into Heaven, He completed His mission and made possible man's restoration to his original destiny.
Bible Study: The Entrance of Jesus Christ Into the World
- On the basis of His statement in John 17:5, where was Jesus Christ before He came into the world?
- Read Matthew 1:18-23. In your own words, summarize the circumstances that surrounded Jesus' birth.
The New Testament passes over the next thirty years of Jesus' life almost in silence. Apparently the Gospel writers were more anxious to portray the character and ministry of Jesus than to give us a chronological biography.
The Character of Jesus
- From these verses, describe the character of Jesus. ( Luke 23:33-34, John 2:13-17, John 13:1-17, Romans 5:8-1 )
- How does Jesus' attitude contrast with the attitude of His contemporaries toward the following? Adults (Matthew14:15-21), Children (Mark 10:13-16), Those who offend (Luke 9:51-56)
- Why did the following people love Christ? The widow of Nain (Luke 7:11-15), The sinful woman (Luke 7:36-50), Mary and Martha (John 11:30-44).
- From the beginning of His life, Jesus demonstrated unfailing grace, amazing wisdom, and astounding understanding and knowledge. He consistently pleased God.
- Read Matthew 7:28-29. What other reactions do you think the people had to His teachings besides amazement?
- How do you feel about Jesus and why?
The crowds found His compassion constant, and He was humble and meek before His enemies. He treated the poor with respect and the children with love and tenderness. His character was pure, selfless, and sinless.
Jesus also proved His divine character through His immeasurable love, an unconditional love unique in history. He willingly offered Himself as a sacrifice for all sin and evil, and He gave the free gift of everlasting life to every person who would accept it. Only God in the flesh could have embodied all these characteristics.
Bible Study: Jesus Christ as a teacher
- What did Christ teach about the new birth? (John 3:1-8)
- What did Christ teach regarding His claims about Himself? (John 10:11, John 13:13-14, John 15:1-5, Matthew 5:17, John 11:25-26) Which of these claims do you think is most important? Which means the most to you personally? Why?
- What did Christ teach about His demands of His followers? (Mark 8:38, Mark 10:29-30, Matthew 9:9, Matthew 11:29, Luke 9:23, John 13:34-35) Which of these demands do you find the easiest to follow; and how do you think Jesus wants you to deal with the difficult ones?
- Many view Jesus as the greatest teacher in history. No other man has been quoted as often or has inspired as many books and articles. His teachings have given us clear, profound insights into the deepest questions of life. People flocked to hear Him speak. The disciples left everything to follow Him. What kind of teach could inspire such loyalty? (See John 6:66-69 for help in formulating your answer.) From the following verses, list characteristics of Jesus that made Him such an excellent teacher. (Mark 6:34, Luke 21:29-38, Luke 4:14-30, John 3:1-8, 7:50-51, 19:38-42)
- Carefully read Matthew 7:7-12 from the Sermon on the Mount. How did Jesus use the following teaching methods to emphasize His lessons?
Repitition of ideas -- Practical application -- Clear summarization
- What was even more important than Christ's effective teaching methods? (Matthew7:29)
Where did He get His authority? (John 12:49-50)
Summarize how Jesus' earthly life confirmed His deity.
Life Application
- Give at least three reasons you can trust Jesus' teachings.
- List three ways these teachings can change your life.
- Plan how you will implement these changes.
Adapted from The 10 Basic Steps Toward Christian Maturity, by Bill Bright, co-founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. © Cru. All rights reserved.
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