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Introduction

In other articles, we addressed the Christian view of revelation, which included a discussion on miracles, particularly those performed by Jesus. The reality of these miracles was defended with the underlying assumption that Jesus Christ is a historical figure and that we possess trustworthy historical knowledge about Him. However, recent scholarly debates have challenged this assumption, questioning not only the historical existence of Jesus but also the validity of the miracles attributed to Him.

In Germany, a significant scholarly debate is ongoing regarding the historicity of Jesus, with some scholars arguing that Jesus never existed. These debates have even reached the shores of Britain. While it is undeniable that the Christian Church existed in the second century and began compiling sacred scriptures during that time, it is essential to acknowledge that the figure of Jesus presented in these writings was considered a divine Savior and Lord by early Christians. This identification of the living Christ with the historical Jesus, whose earthly life and ministry are recorded in the four Gospels, has been a cornerstone of the Christian faith.

The Historical Reality of Jesus

The identity of the living Christ of faith with the historical Jesus of the Gospels is now being challenged. Critics argue that the living Christ is a subjective illusion and that the historical Jesus never existed, claiming that both are creations of the religious spirit of humanity. Some proponents of this view even suggest that the reality of Jesus as a divine Savior and Lord is irrelevant to religion, as long as the ideas and ideals remain true and right in the eternal realm of spirit. This perspective denies the necessity of historical fact for Christian faith, reducing it to mere subjective experience.

However, Christian faith is deeply rooted in historical reality. The Christian Church would experience profound grief if the historical reality of Jesus Christ were disproved. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the ways in which the historical existence of Jesus is denied and the subjective illusion of the living Christ is explained.

Denial of Historical Jesus

One approach to denying the historical existence of Jesus involves questioning the reliability of the Gospel accounts. Critics argue that these accounts are not historical records but theological constructs created by early Christians to support their faith. They claim that the Gospels were written long after the events they describe, reflecting the beliefs and practices of early Christian communities rather than the historical Jesus.

Another approach involves reinterpreting the evidence of early Christian writings. Some scholars suggest that the figure of Jesus was a mythical creation, similar to other mythological figures in ancient religions. They argue that the stories of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection were influenced by existing mythologies and that early Christians adapted these stories to create a new religious figure.

Defense of Historical Jesus

In response to these challenges, it is essential to examine the historical evidence supporting the existence of Jesus. The New Testament Gospels, although written with theological intent, contain historical elements that can be corroborated by other sources. For instance, the crucifixion of Jesus under Pontius Pilate is attested by Roman historians such as Tacitus and Jewish historians like Josephus. These independent accounts provide strong evidence for the historical reality of Jesus’ crucifixion.

Additionally, the rapid growth of the early Christian Church in the first century requires an explanation. The existence of a charismatic leader, Jesus of Nazareth, whose teachings and resurrection inspired a movement, is a plausible explanation for this phenomenon. The willingness of early Christians to face persecution and martyrdom also supports the claim that they genuinely believed in the historical reality of Jesus and His resurrection.

The Living Christ and the Historical Jesus

The relationship between the living Christ of faith and the historical Jesus is crucial for understanding Christian faith. The New Testament presents Jesus not only as a historical figure but also as the risen Lord who continues to be present and active in the lives of believers. This dual aspect of Jesus is central to Christian theology.

Paul, in his epistles, emphasizes the importance of the resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of Christian faith. He argues that if Christ has not been raised, then Christian preaching and faith are in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). The resurrection validates Jesus’ claims and ensures His ongoing presence and activity in the Church.

The miraculous event of Jesus healing the woman with the issue of blood

The Humanity and Divinity of Jesus

The Christian confession of Jesus Christ as both fully human and fully divine is central to Christian theology. This dual nature is not a contradiction but a profound mystery that reflects the unique person of Jesus.

The Humanity of Jesus

The Gospels present Jesus as a real human being who experienced the full range of human emotions and limitations. He was born to Mary, a virgin, in Bethlehem (Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-7). He grew up in Nazareth, learning the trade of carpentry (Mark 6:3). Jesus experienced hunger, thirst, fatigue, and sorrow (Matthew 4:2; John 19:28; John 4:6; John 11:35).

Jesus’ humanity is essential for His role as the Savior. As a human, He could identify with our weaknesses and temptations (Hebrews 4:15). His suffering and death on the cross were real, and He bore the punishment for our sins in His human body (1 Peter 2:24).

The Divinity of Jesus

The New Testament also affirms the divinity of Jesus. He is described as the Son of God, the Word made flesh, and the image of the invisible God (John 1:1, 14; Colossians 1:15). Jesus performed miracles, forgave sins, and claimed authority over the Sabbath, actions that were understood as divine prerogatives (Mark 2:5-12; John 5:16-18).

Jesus’ divinity is crucial for His role as the Redeemer. Only God could provide a perfect and sufficient sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead and His ascension to heaven confirm His divine nature and His victory over sin and death (Romans 1:4; Acts 1:9-11).

The Hypostatic Union

The doctrine of the hypostatic union, formulated in the early ecumenical councils, articulates the mystery of Jesus’ dual nature. It asserts that Jesus is one person with two distinct natures—divine and human—united without confusion, change, division, or separation. This doctrine preserves the integrity of both Jesus’ humanity and divinity.

The hypostatic union is essential for understanding the work of Christ. As a human, Jesus lived a perfect life of obedience, fulfilling the law on our behalf. As God, His sacrifice on the cross has infinite value, sufficient to atone for the sins of the whole world. This union also assures us that Jesus, our mediator, fully understands our human condition and is able to represent us before God (1 Timothy 2:5).

The Significance of Jesus’ Titles

The various titles attributed to Jesus in the New Testament reveal different aspects of His person and work. Titles such as “Son of Man,” “Son of God,” “Messiah,” and “Lord” each carry significant theological implications.

Son of Man: This title, used frequently by Jesus, emphasizes His humanity and His role as the representative of humanity. It also has eschatological connotations, pointing to Jesus’ role in the final judgment and the establishment of God’s kingdom (Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 26:64).

Son of God: This title affirms Jesus’ unique relationship with God the Father, highlighting His divine nature. It signifies His authority and His role in the divine plan of salvation (Matthew 3:17; John 5:19-23).

Messiah: The title “Messiah” or “Christ” means “anointed one.” It underscores Jesus’ role as the promised deliverer in Jewish expectations. Jesus fulfills the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament, bringing salvation to God’s people (Isaiah 61:1-2; Luke 4:18-21).

Lord: Calling Jesus “Lord” signifies His supreme authority and divinity. In the context of the early church, it also served as a confession of faith in opposition to the Roman claim of Caesar as lord (Philippians 2:9-11; Romans 10:9).

The Work of Jesus

The person of Jesus is inseparable from His work. His life, death, resurrection, and ascension are central to the Christian faith and the foundation of Christian hope.

Incarnation: The incarnation is the event where the Son of God took on human flesh. It is the ultimate act of divine humility and love, as God entered into human history to redeem His creation (John 1:14; Philippians 2:6-8).

Atonement: Jesus’ death on the cross is the means by which He atoned for the sins of humanity. His sacrificial death satisfies the justice of God and demonstrates His love for sinners (Romans 3:25-26; 1 John 4:10).

Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of Christian faith. It confirms His victory over sin and death, assures believers of their own future resurrection, and vindicates Jesus’ claims and teachings (1 Corinthians 15:14-20; Romans 6:4-5).

Ascension: Jesus’ ascension to heaven signifies the completion of His earthly mission and His exaltation at the right hand of the Father. It marks the beginning of His intercessory ministry and His reign as Lord over all (Acts 1:9-11; Ephesians 1:20-23).

Second Coming: The New Testament promises the return of Jesus in glory to judge the living and the dead and to establish His eternal kingdom. This hope motivates Christians to live faithfully and expectantly (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 22:12-13).

The Impact of Jesus

The life and work of Jesus Christ have had an unparalleled impact on human history and continue to shape the lives of millions. His teachings have influenced moral and ethical standards, His sacrificial love has inspired countless acts of compassion and service, and His resurrection has given hope to believers facing trials and suffering.

In Conclusion

The historical reality of Jesus and the living Christ of faith are inseparably linked in Christian belief. Denying the historical existence of Jesus undermines the foundation of Christian faith. While critics continue to challenge the historicity of Jesus, the evidence from the New Testament, corroborated by independent sources, supports the claim that Jesus was a real historical figure. The early Christian Church’s rapid growth and willingness to endure persecution further attest to the profound impact of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

The living Christ, experienced by believers throughout history, confirms the ongoing presence and activity of Jesus. This dual aspect of Jesus, as both a historical figure and the risen Lord, is essential for a robust understanding of Christian faith. The challenges to the historicity of Jesus ultimately fail to account for the compelling evidence and the profound experiences of countless believers who have encountered the living Christ.

The person and work of Jesus Christ are central to Christian faith. The historical reality of Jesus, confirmed by historical evidence and the testimony of early Christians, underpins the belief in the living Christ who continues to be present and active in the world. The dual nature of Jesus as both fully human and fully divine, articulated in the doctrine of the hypostatic union, ensures that He can fully represent humanity and provide a perfect sacrifice for sin.

The various titles of Jesus reveal different aspects of His identity and mission, while His life, death, resurrection, and ascension constitute the foundation of Christian hope and salvation. The impact of Jesus on history and individual lives testifies to His unique role as the Savior and Lord.

About the Author

Alfred Ernest Garvie was a Congregational minister and seminary professor. He is the author of The Ritschlian Theology and A Handbook of Christian Apologetics.