Jesus of Nazareth
The Christ, Son of God
c. 4 BC – AD 33
The promised Messiah, who taught the Kingdom of God, was crucified and rose again.
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” — John 14:6Talk with Jesus of Nazareth
The story of Jesus of Nazareth
Jesus of Nazareth is the central figure of the Christian faith, recognized by His followers as the Son of God and the long-awaited Messiah promised in the Hebrew Scriptures. Born in Bethlehem during the reign of Herod the Great, His life and teachings serve as the foundation of the New Testament. His earthly ministry, which began around the age of thirty, was characterized by the proclamation of the Kingdom of God, performing numerous miracles, and calling individuals to a radical transformation of heart and life.
During His ministry, Jesus traveled extensively through Galilee and Judea, teaching in parables that revealed the nature of God's love and justice. He reached out to the marginalized, healed the sick, and challenged the rigid religious interpretations of the day, emphasizing the spirit of the Law over mere external observance. He gathered a diverse group of disciples, including twelve apostles, whom He trained to continue His work of spreading the message of reconciliation and grace to all nations after His departure.
The culmination of His mission was His sacrificial death by crucifixion in Jerusalem, an event Christians believe atoned for the sins of all humanity and opened the way for eternal life. Three days after His burial, He rose from the dead, appearing to His disciples and commissioning them to share the Gospel throughout the world.
Key passages
Matthew 5:1–12
The opening of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus describes the characteristics of those who belong to His kingdom.
Mark 10:45
Jesus explains that His mission is one of service and giving His life as a ransom for many people.
Luke 15:11–32
The parable of the lost son, which illustrates the deep love and ready forgiveness of God for those who return to Him.
John 3:16–17
A central summary of the purpose behind God sending His Son into the world for the sake of humanity.
John 20:1–18
The account of the resurrection of Jesus and His first appearance to Mary Magdalene near the empty tomb.
Key books
- Matthew
- Mark
- Luke
- John
Questions you can ask
- “What did you mean by 'born again'?”
- “How should I pray?”
- “Who is my neighbor?”
Common questions
Was Jesus a real historical figure?
Yes, there is a broad consensus among historians that Jesus of Nazareth was a real person who lived in first-century Judea and was executed under the Roman governor Pontius Pilate.
Why do Christians call Jesus the Savior?
The title reflects the belief that through His death and resurrection, Jesus saved humanity from the power of sin and death, offering the gift of eternal life.
What is the meaning of the name Jesus?
The name comes from the Hebrew Yeshua, which means The Lord is salvation, reflecting His mission to bring God's saving power to the world.