Bible Character • Old & New Testament

Jesus Christ

The Son of God and Savior of the World

c. 4 BC - c. 30 AD

Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Son of God and the promised Messiah. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He offered salvation and reconciliation between God and humanity, forever transforming the course of human history.

Chat with Jesus Christ in Radiate

Ask questions, explore their story, and gain wisdom through AI-powered conversations.

Get the App

Biography

Jesus of Nazareth was born in Bethlehem to Mary, a virgin, through the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit. His birth fulfilled ancient prophecies about the coming Messiah who would save God's people. Raised in Nazareth by Mary and her husband Joseph, a carpenter, Jesus lived a humble life until beginning His public ministry at approximately age 30.

Jesus' ministry lasted about three years and was marked by powerful teaching, miraculous healings, and demonstrations of authority over nature, demons, and death itself. He gathered twelve disciples who traveled with Him throughout Galilee, Judea, and surrounding regions. His teachings emphasized God's kingdom, love, forgiveness, and the transformation of the human heart. He challenged religious hypocrisy and welcomed society's outcasts, showing that God's grace extends to all who believe.

The religious leaders of His day opposed Jesus, viewing Him as a threat to their authority and traditions. His claims to be the Son of God and His growing influence among the people led to His arrest. Though innocent, Jesus was condemned to death by crucifixion under Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. On the cross, He bore the sins of humanity, offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the redemption of all people.

Three days after His death, Jesus rose from the grave, conquering death and proving His divine nature. He appeared to His disciples and many others over forty days, teaching them and preparing them for their mission. Before ascending to heaven, Jesus commissioned His followers to spread the Gospel to all nations, promising to be with them always through the Holy Spirit.

Jesus Christ's life and teachings have profoundly impacted billions of people across centuries. His message of love, sacrifice, and redemption continues to transform lives today. Christians believe He is alive and will return one day to establish His eternal kingdom, where He will reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

The person of Jesus represents the ultimate revelation of God's character and His plan for humanity. Through faith in Christ, believers receive forgiveness of sins, the gift of eternal life, and the promise of transformation into His likeness. His example of humble service, sacrificial love, and unwavering obedience to the Father provides the model for Christian discipleship.

Key Events

The Virgin Birth

Jesus was born to the virgin Mary in Bethlehem, fulfilling ancient prophecies about the Messiah's coming. Angels announced His birth to shepherds, and wise men from the East came to worship Him, recognizing Him as the King of the Jews.

Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 2:1-20

Baptism and Temptation

Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, where the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove and God the Father proclaimed Him His beloved Son. Immediately after, Jesus was led into the wilderness where He fasted for forty days and overcame Satan's temptations.

Matthew 3:13-17; Matthew 4:1-11

The Sermon on the Mount

Jesus delivered His most famous sermon, teaching about the Beatitudes, the fulfillment of the Law, love for enemies, prayer, worry, and the narrow path to life. This sermon encapsulates the core values of the Kingdom of God.

Matthew 5-7

The Transfiguration

Jesus was transfigured before Peter, James, and John on a high mountain, revealing His divine glory. Moses and Elijah appeared with Him, and God's voice declared Jesus as His beloved Son, commanding the disciples to listen to Him.

Matthew 17:1-13; Mark 9:2-13; Luke 9:28-36

The Crucifixion

Jesus was betrayed by Judas, arrested, tried before religious and civil authorities, and sentenced to death by crucifixion. On the cross, He bore the sins of humanity, experiencing separation from God the Father so that believers might be reconciled to God.

Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19

The Resurrection

On the third day after His crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death. He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, then to His disciples and over 500 witnesses, proving His victory over death and validating His claims to be the Son of God.

Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20-21

Character Traits

Compassionate and merciful toward sinners and outcastsHumble servant leader who washed His disciples' feetPerfectly obedient to God the Father's willPowerful teacher who spoke with divine authoritySinless and morally perfect in all His waysCourageous in facing opposition and deathLoving toward all, even His enemiesPrayerful and deeply connected to the Father

Lessons from Jesus Christ's Life

1
True greatness comes through humble service to others, not through seeking power or position
2
Love must extend even to enemies and those who persecute you
3
Obedience to God's will is more important than personal comfort or safety
4
Forgiveness and grace are available to all who repent and believe
5
Spiritual transformation requires dying to self and living for God

Questions for Reflection

How does Jesus' example of sacrificial love challenge the way you love and serve others?
In what areas of your life do you struggle to fully obey God's will as Jesus did?
How can you better extend grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged you?
What does it mean to you personally that Jesus conquered death and offers eternal life?