What Are Jesus Names

Posted on April 17, 2025April 17, 2025 by jakirkgasser10439

What Is In A Name? – What Are Jesus’ Names / Titles

Introduction

Throughout the Bible, Jesus is referred to by many names, each revealing different aspects of His nature and character. Understanding these names helps deepen our relationship with Him, strengthens our faith, and guides us on our spiritual journey. In this post, we will explore the various names of Jesus found in Scripture and what they teach us about His divine attributes.

What Are We Talking About?

When we speak of the names of Jesus, we are referring to the different titles and designations used in the Bible to describe His nature, power, and relationship with humanity. Each name reveals something unique about Jesus’s identity and how He interacts with His people. Jesus is the expressed image of the invisible Father, so when we get ot know more about Jesus, we are getting to know more about God These names serve as a means to know Jesus more personally and to call upon Him with understanding and reverence.

What’s in a Name?

We each are called by multiple different names: At times we are called by just our first name, sometimes just our last name, sometimes our full formal name, other times we may have a nickname or handle – Some call me Johnny K, some call me Paster John. Most people called My dad Coach, but back in CB days my dad went by “The Cackling Goose” and I was “The Peacock” hinting at our families hobby of raising birds. We also might answer to some of other names: Uncle John, Neighbor John, Doctor Kirkgasser, My Husband, My Son, John the water skier, John the arranger/producer Or as the joke goes, For years I thought my name was Jesus Christ, because anytime I did something went wrong around the house that is what my dad would yell when he saw my handiwork. We are called by multiple names and those names can often give a hint at a role we play, a position we hold, or something about our character.

Names hold significant power and meaning in cultures around the world. In biblical times, naming something often signified authority, purpose, and destiny. A name could define a person’s character, role, or relationship with others. When God revealed His names, He was not merely providing titles; He was unveiling aspects of His divine nature and how He wished to be known by His people.

The act of naming also establishes credibility and recognition. For example, when individuals in the Bible experienced divine encounters, they often named places or built altars to commemorate God’s actions, solidifying their faith and passing down the knowledge of His works. Understanding God’s names enhances our ability to relate to Him, as it reveals His attributes in a way that deepens faith and worship.

Recognizing and using the names of God can give us a clearer vision of His power, faithfulness, and presence in our lives. It allows us to address Him with reverence and specificity, enhancing our prayer and spiritual walk.

A Practical Example

Naming something helps us understand and deal with it, for example the naming of medical conditions. Before a disease is named, it may cause widespread fear and uncertainty because people do not know what it is, how it spreads, or how to treat it. However, once medical researchers identify and name it—such as diabetes or arthritis—it becomes easier to study, treat, and manage. Naming gives it a form of structure, enabling people to develop responses, treatments, and preventive measures. Similarly, naming aspects of God helps us understand His nature and how to relate to Him in different circumstances of our lives.

What Are Jesus’s Various Names/Titles?

Below is a table of some of the key names of Jesus is call in the Bible, along with a key verse where that name is used:

Name/Title	Reference	Verse Text	Significance
Advocate	1 John 2:1 Romans 8:34	“But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” “Christ Jesus…is at the right hand of God, who also is interceding for us”	Shows Jesus as our intercessor—pleading on our behalf before God and standing in our defense.
The Alpha and Omega	Revelation 22:13 Isaiah 44:6	“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” “I am the first and I am the last”	Declares Jesus as the beginning and the end, underscoring His eternal sovereignty over all creation.
The Bread of Life	John 6:35, John 6:48, John 6:51	“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.'”	He is the source of spiritual sustenance and eternal life, offering true fulfillment and nourishment for the soul, unlike the perishable food of the world. Once you connect with Jesus he will feed your spirit and soul on a never ending journey of learning and appreciation.
Bridegroom	Matthew 9:15, Isaiah 62:5, Zechariah 9:9	“Jesus answered, ‘How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them?'” “As a young man marries a young woman, so will your Builder marry you” “Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.”	Emphasizes the intimate, loving relationship between Christ and His people, akin to the joy and covenant of marriage.
Captain	Hebrews 2:10, Revelation 19:11–16	“In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God… should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered.” (Revelation provides a vision of Christ’s triumphant, authoritative leadership as he rides a white horse)	Illustrates Jesus’ leadership in directing and protecting His people as a master strategist and warrior.
Chief Cornerstone	Ephesians 2:20, Psalm 118:22, Matthew 21:42	“Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.” “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” “Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’?”	Jesus is the essential foundation upon which faith is built—a secure starting point for constructing your life. Start your life based on where He finished on the cross.
Christ, The Christ	John 20:31	“But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.”	Declares Jesus as the Anointed One—the promised Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection secure our redemption.
Creator	Colossians 1:16, John 1:1-3	“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible…”	He was there in the beginning, All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. As the originator of all that exists, Jesus inspires awe and underpins all creative order.
Deliverer	Psalm 18:2, Romans 11:26	“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer” “And in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: ‘The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.'”	Highlights Christ’s power to rescue us from sin and life’s hardships, offering liberation and hope.
Faithful and True	Revelation 19:11	“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True.”
Father	Romans 8:15	“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, you received adoption to sonship”	Reveals the intimate, parental care through which believers are welcomed into God’s family and experience unconditional love.
Firstborn	Colossians 1:15, Hebrews 1:6	“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”	We are each to be born again, reborn into Gods eternal image. Jesus was the first.
Foundation Stone	1 Peter 2:6	“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”	As our spiritual bedrock, Jesus ensures stability and strength for all who build their lives upon Him.
Gate / Door	John 10:9 John 10:7	“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep”	He is the entryway into the security and salvation of God, providing spiritual shelter.
Good Shepherd	John 10:11, Psalm 23:1	“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” “The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing”	Depicts Jesus as the caring guide who leads, protects, and nurtures His flock with compassion and sacrifice.
Good Teacher	Luke 18:18, John 13:13, Matthew 7:28-29	“A certain ruler asked him, ‘Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?'” “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am” “And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.”	Reveals Jesus as the wise instructor who imparts divine truth and guidance for life.
Great Physician	Mark 2:17, Isaiah 53:5, 1 Peter 2:24	“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed” “who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose [a]stripes you were healed.”	Emphasizes Jesus’ role as the healer—restoring the broken, comforting the wounded, and bringing wholeness.
Hidden Treasure	Matthew 13:44 Ephesisans 3:8	“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” “to me, the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ”	Represents the inestimable value of encountering Christ—a discovery that surpasses earthly wealth.
High Priest	Hebrews 4:14, Hebrews 7:26	“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.” “For we need a high priest who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens”	Portrays Jesus as the ultimate mediator who, having offered Himself as a perfect sacrifice, continually intercedes on behalf of His people.
Immanuel	Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23	“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel” “‘Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us.’”	Means “God with us” and underscores the intimate presence of God among His people through Jesus’ incarnation.
Indescribable Gift	2 Corinthians 9:15, Ephesians 2:8–9, James 1:!7	“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights”	Affirms that Christ is the ultimate, unfathomable gift—graciously given and beyond human explanation.
Judge / Rightious Judge	2 Timothy 4:8, John 5:22, Revelatio 20:12,	“Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day…” “Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son”) “And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne…”	Affirms that Jesus will one day execute divine justice over every deed, holding all accountable.
King of Kings, Lord Of Lords	Revelation 19:16, 1 Timothy 6:15	“And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” “God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light”	Proclaims the supreme sovereignty of Jesus over all earthly and heavenly rulers, inviting all to worship His eternal reign.
Lamb	John 1:29, Revelation 5:6	“Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” “Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing at the center of the throne”	Illustrates His sacrificial role as the spotless offering who takes away sin and brings redemption.
Light of the World	John 8:12, Psalm 27:1, Matthew 5:14-16	“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”	He brings illumination to a dark world, guiding believers toward truth and righteousness, and a life seporated and resistant to the downward pull of darkness. He was the light, Now you are to be the light
Lily of the Valley / Rose Of Sharon	Song of Solomon 2:1, Isaiah 35:1	“I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.” “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom like the crocus”	Conveys the beauty, grace, and delicate yet vibrant nature of Christ’s love, reflecting both purity and renewal.
Lion of Judah	Revelation 5:5, Jeremiah 23:5	“See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.” “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely”	Emphasizes Jesus’ fulfillment of the promised royal lineage, attesting to the Messianic prophecies and His rightful heritage.
Lord	Romans 10:9	“That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”	Affirms Jesus’ sovereign authority and majesty, warranting worship and total allegiance from every believer.
Mediator	1 Timothy 2:5, Hebrews 9:15	“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” “For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance”	Jesus is the essential bridge reconciling humanity to God by interceding on our behalf.
Messiah	John 1:41, Acts 2:36	“He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated, the Christ).” “God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah”	Denotes the long-awaited anointed deliverer promised by the prophets—a title synonymous with “Christ.”
Morning Star	Revelation 22:16, 2 Peter 1:!9	“I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” “We have the prophetic message as a reliable light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts”	A symbol of hope and the promise of a new beginning—heralding the arrival of light after darkness.
Name Above Every Name	Philippians 2:9–11	“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name”	He is Lord, He has full authority in heaven and on heart. His name carries power and authority
Pearl of Great Price	Matthew 13:45-46	“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”	Conveys that knowing Christ is the most valuable treasure—far surpassing every worldly possession.
Power of God	1 Corinthians 1:24	“But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”	Personifies divine power as embodied in Christ—the power that created the univers, and now sustains it.
Redeemer	Job 19:25, Ephesisans 1:7	“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and He shall stand at last on the earth.” “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins”	Emphasizes that Jesus has bought back humanity from the bondage of sin—restoring us through His sacrifice.
Refuge / Shelter	Psalm 91:2	“I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust’”	Offers assurance that in Christ we find safety, comfort, and protection from life’s storms.
Rider on the White Horse	Revelation 19:11,16	“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True.” “On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS”	Portrays the victorious return of Christ, conquering evil and inaugurating His eternal kingdom.
Righteous One, The Justifier	1 John 2:1 Romans 3:21-26	“But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. “But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.”	Displays the perfect justice and moral purity of Jesus, assuring believers of His fair judgment.
Rock of Ages	Isaiah 26:4, Psalm 18:2, Deuteronomy 32:4	“Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge” “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just”	Signifies an unchanging foundation—providing enduring strength and refuge in times of trial.
Savior	Luke 2:11 Titus 2:13	“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” “…while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ”	Highlights Jesus’ redemptive work in delivering humanity from sin and spiritual death.
Son of God	Matthew 3:17	“And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’”	Emphasizes Jesus’ divine nature and His unique relationship with God the Father, establishing His authority and identity.
Son of Man	Mark 10:45, Daniel 7:13–14, Matthew 8:20	“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” Daniel has a vision portraying one “like a son of man” given authority and an everlasting kingdom “And Jesus said to him, ‘Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.’”	Highlights both Jesus’ full humanity and His role as the prophesied, suffering Messiah who serves and saves.
The Life	John 14:6, John 10:10, Romans 6:23	“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus”	Jesus is the fountain of both physical and eternal life, offering abundant living to all. Anyone who submits his earthly life to him and diligently follows him will find peace and joy in this life. Anyone who believes in him will have everlasting life with Him in the heavens.
The Resurrection	John 11:25, 1 Corinthians 15:20	“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.'”	Jesus is life, he overcame death, anyone who believes in him will have everlasting life, He is the first of many who will have life after death.
The Truth	John 14:6, Psalm 119:160	“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”	Jesus is the truth that God love us. He loves us so much he sent his son to die for us. Jesus embodies unchanging, absolute truth—the foundation on which our convictions and lives are built.
The Way	John 14:6, Acts 9:3, Colossians 1:18	“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”	We are separated from the Father by our sinful nature. Belief in Jesus is the only way back to communion with the Father. Jesus is the only path to salvation, guiding believers toward eternal truth.
The Word	John 1:1, John 1:14	“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us”	Affirms that Jesus is the living communication of God—through whom all truth and revelation are revealed.
The True Vine	John 15:1, John 15:5	“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit”	Illustrates our intimate, life-sustaining connection with Christ—without whom we can do nothing.
Water of Life	John 7:38, John 4:14	“Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”	Jesus takes up residence in us via the Holy Spirit. He convicts us, teaches, and guides us. Jesus provides eternal, refreshing life—quenching the deep spiritual thirst in every heart.
Wind	John 20:22, John 3:8, Acts 2:2	“And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”” “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.”	Symbolizes the unseen yet powerful movement of the Spirit and Christ’s dynamic work in the world.
Wisdom	1 Corinthians 1:24, Proverbs 8:22–31	“But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” “…When He marked out the foundations of the earth, Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman; And I was daily His delight, Rejoicing always before Him, Rejoicing in His inhabited world, And my delight was with the sons of men.”	Personifies divine wisdom as embodied in Christ—a guide to understanding life’s mysteries and the order of creation.
Wonderful Counselor	Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 11:2	“And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” “The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might”	Highlights Christ’s ability to offer comfort, strategic guidance, and divine advice in every situation.

Getting to know and understand the various names and titles of Jesus helps us grasp His nature more fully.

This knowledge allows us to:

- Recognize God’s presence and work in our lives.
- Draw closer to Him in worship and faith.
- Trust in His promises and character.
- Pray with deeper understanding and confidence.

How Do We Use The Names and Titles of Jesus in Our Journey?

In Spiritual Growth: Study His names and titles to deepen your understanding of His character and how He relates to you personally.
In Worship: Use His names and titles in worship to praise Him for His attributes.
In Prayer: Call on His specific names and titles based on your needs (e.g., My Savior, My Shephard, My Shield).
In Times of Trouble: Meditate on His names as a source of strength and encouragement

References to Learn More

To explore the names and titles of Jesus further, consider these resources:
- Scripture:
  - The New Testament, especially the Gospels and the book of Revelation, is the primary source for exploring the names and titles of Jesus.
  - Bible study tools such as Blue Letter Bible and BibleGateway offer in-depth analysis of the names and titles of Jesus, providing context and meaning
- Online:
  - Websites like the Gospel Coalition offer articles and essays exploring the theological significance of these names.
  - The Navigators provides study guides and resources, including a printable PDF, for exploring the names of Jesus.
- Books:
  - “The Names of Jesus” by Elmer L. Towns is a comprehensive study on the various names and titles of Jesus found in scripture.
- Theological Works:
  - For a more in-depth exploration, consider theological works that examine Christology, the study of the nature and person of Jesus.
- Historical Context:
  - Understanding the historical and cultural context of the names and titles can provide further insights into their meaning and significance.

By studying and embracing the names of God, we gain a greater appreciation of who He is and how He works in our lives. May this knowledge draw us closer to Him and strengthen our faith journey.

Why Should You Believe In Jesus and His Resurrection

Posted on April 1, 2024November 17, 2024 by jakirkgasser10439

Why Should You Believe In Jesus and His Resurrection?

The birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the most significant events in human history. We measure time based on years before and after His birth. Why should an intelligent perspn believe in Jesus’ and His resurrection? 2000 years later. This post outlines several reasons you should seriously consider as you work through what to believe or reject.

Jesus was a real person, No serious historian doubts it, even His critics.

Jesus was a real historic person who died by crucifixion at the hands of the Romans. Therre are detailed eyewitness accounts of his life, ministry, death, and resurrection within the bible recoded within 60 years of the events and well preserved since then. These accounts are included in the biblical books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

There are several ancient texts outside of the bible whih reference Him by name, His death via crucifixion, and the growing communinty of followers who believed in His ressureciton in the flesh. These extra-biblical acounts include accounts from people who were critics and did not accept Him as The Christ, the Messiah, The Savior. The most prominent extra-biblical accounts include

No serious historian doubts that He was a real person who died by Crucifixion in the time frame descibed in the bible, and that large groups of people at that time came to believe in His resurrection.

If you want to dig into this, start here: https://www.history.com/…/was-jesus-real-historical…

Jesus fulfilled hundreds of prophesies written centuries before.

The old testiment makes over 300 predictions about God sending a savior, some very direct and specific, some more allusory or metaphoric. Jesus fulfilled them. The more you dig into these, the more amazing they are both individually, as a collection, and as part of an integrated overarching narative. The chances of a single person fulfilling just 30 direct and specific prophesies made before He was born is staggering. Born from the line of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah, Jessie, and David, in Bethlehem, called immanuel, Kings bearing gifts, Exile and then return from Egypt, Sinless life, a messenger would preceed Him, He would minister in Galilee, Teach in parables, Enter Jeruselum on a donkey, Rejected by his people, Spit upon, Beaten beyond recognition, Bear our burden, Offer no resistance, Crucified: Nails in hands/feet, Hang on a cross, Die with the wicked, Buried with the rich. Just fulfilling these specific activities as a human being on a mission would be nearly imposible. Then add fulfillment of prophesy about supernatural enabled Human activity: Born to a virgin, God declares Him Son of God, Holy Spirit would rest on Him, Blind will see, Deaf will hear, Lame will walk, Dead will rise. When you understand that each of thse predictions was fulfilled, you realize this guy was the real deal, He was seriously connected to God the Father because only God can predict the future, He did just that. Then the ultimate prophesy fulfilled: Raised from the dead, Ascend to Heaven, Sit at the right hand of the Father, King over all nations. Only God can predict the future, and only Jesus as the Son of God can fulfill all of these prophesies.

I encourge you to review the prophesies and how they were fulfiled.

The are listed in logical groups with hot linked references here: https://www.gotquestions.org/prophecies-of-Jesus.html

They are arranged in order of thier fulfillment here: https://christianityfaq.com/how-many-prophecies-did-jesus-fulfill-over-50-examples/

Jesus predicted His own death and resurrection

Jesus was asked repeatedly how people will know He is who he says he is. He told them to whatch what He does. He specifically stated His mission and predicted the activities that would unfold, including being rejected byreligious leaders, being put to death and being resurrected after 3 days.

“And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.” Mark 8:31

“For He taught His disciples and said to them, “The Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of men, and they will kill Him. And after He is killed, He will rise the third day.” Mark 9:31

“Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and deliver Him to the Gentiles; and they will mock Him, and scourge Him, and spit on Him, and kill Him. And the third day He will rise again.” Mark 10:33-34

Jesus offers a prophetic promiss to the religious leaders. He connects the dots between His future death and ressurection, and the activities of the old testament character Jonah. He says as Jonah was released from captivity after spending three days in a whale, Jesus would be raised after spending three days in the grave. He also says the folks who listened to Jonah and repented will stand in contast on judgement day to all the folks who reject Jesus and His teachings now.

“Then some of the teachers of the Law and the proud religious law-keepers said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, we would like to have you do something special for us to see.’ He said to them, ‘The sinful people of this day look for something special to see. There will be nothing special to see but the powerful works of the early preacher Jonah. Jonah was three days and three nights in the stomach of a big fish. The Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the grave also. The men of the city of Nineveh will stand up with the people of this day on the day men stand before God. Those men will say these people are guilty because the men of Nineveh were sorry for their sins and turned from them when Jonah preached. And see, Someone greater than Jonah is here!” Matthew 12:38-42

There were over 500 eye witnesses to Jesus’ resurrection, many were persecuted and died for what they saw and believed.

How do I wrap my head around His resurrection in the flesh? Believe the eyewitnesses willing to die for what they saw. Paul describes the witnesses including himself.

“For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He was seen by Cephas (Peter), then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.” 1 Corinthians 15:3-7

Think about these witnesses. 12 humble disciples were willing to suffer torture and be put to death for testifying they interacted with Jesus after He was raised in the flesh; 11 of the disciples were tortured and killed for thier beliefs, and John died on an isolated island having been exiled for His belief. This level of committment is very unlikely if Jesus resurrection was a lie. The watergate perpetrators were some of the most powerful men in the world and they could not maintain their lie for 3 months at the threat of being put in jail, these guys remained committed to their testimony under torture to the point of death.

Jesus appeared to well over 500 witnesses at various times and places over the 40 days after His resurrection. Many of these folks were still alive when Paul referenced them in His letters. Why would 500 eyewitnesses be willing to be excommunicated from society, persecuted, and possibly stoned to death for claiming they saw Jesus resurrected in the flesh if it was a lie. It wouldn’t happen.

“To these He also presented Himself alive after His suffering, by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:3

Eyewitness interaction with Jesus after resurrection convinced His own brother, James, that He was “the Christ”

Jesus’ brother James did not fully believe Jesus was the son of God, the Christ, the Messiah, despite witnessing numerous miracles over several years.

“For even His brothers did not believe in Him.” John 7:5

It was not until he witnessed Jesus risen from the dead that he fully believed.

“Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles” 1 Corinthians 15:7

James was so convinced that he became an apostle/missionary, served as leader in the first Christian church in Jerusalem. He went on to write one of the letters now included as the book of James in the new testiment. He suffered persecution and was stoned to death for his belief. None of this would happen if you did not truly believe what you saw.

First hand interaction with the risen Jesus, converted Saul/Paul from being Jesus’ staunchest enemy to becoming Jesus’ staunches supporter.

Paul was actively working to persecute believers when the risen Jesus appeared to Him on the road to Damascus and radically changed Him. He repented, became a believer and went on to be one of the primary forces spreading the early Church. His writings make up almost half of the new testament.

“Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.” 1 Corinthians 15:8

Why did these folks belive? They saw the goodness, and the goodness leads you to repentance.

As a process guy, I learned that the best processes pull value through the steps of a process rather than tru to push things through. If the customer pulls exactly what he wants, exactly the right things come out. If the supplier tries to guess what the customer wants and pushes lots of stuff towards a customer, you end up with lots of stuff at the end of the process and only some of it might be what the customer wants, the rest of it is wrong and causes problems. It is the same thing with spiritual stuff. Folks who focus on pushing truth at you and demand you comply, only make it harder to ge ton board. If you focus attention on God’s goodness, folks become receptive to talking about the truth involved in creating the goodness. The goodness “pulls” the truth. So what Goodness did Jesus deliver during His visit here, and why should you be interested in paying attention?

Jesus is “The Truth”; Evidence that God loves you.

Would you be willing to give your life for something you believe in? Each military veteran does just that. God loves us so much He sent His only begotten son to rescue us from this fallen world, to restore that which was lost through sin. Jesus loves us so much He was willing to sacrifice His earthly life, to bear the burden of our sin on His back to the point of death, trusting in faith the Fathers’ promise to resurrect Him in glory on the third day. That is some serious love, and that is some serious faith. The eye witnesses believed what they saw and had faith enough to admit what they saw and suffere whatever consequences that entailed. Jesus suffered and died to provide you evidence of God’s love. The least you can do is love Him back.

Jesus is “The Way”; The only way back to the Father.

You were born with a sinful nature, and you are a sinner. Sin seporates us from God, we are at war with Him in our mind and heart. The penalty for sin is death, eternity seporated from God. Jesus paid the price for our sin with His body. Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father and His innocent blood is on the mercy seat. When you repent of your sins and accept Jesus as Lord of your life, you instantly become cataloged as one of His followers, a member of His official body of followers, the body of Christ. Jesus is our High Priest in the Holiest of Hollies intercessing with the Father. We are connected as one through His blood. The Father sees you through Jeuss blood as innocent, blameless and beyond reproach. Guilt, Shame and condemnation have no place when you are one with the Father. This is not something you can earn, You can not do someting wonderful to offset your sinful nature. This gift of being restored into right relationship with God is only available to those who belief and put thier faith in Jesus.

Jesus is “The Life”; His resurrection gives you a direct path to eternal life

Jesus was there in the beginning; All things were created through Him. He came here in the flesh as the expressed image of God so we could see what God is like, and see what kind of life He wants us to live. His prophetic birth as a real human is tangible evidence that God is real and that He loves us. He loves us so much that even though we were working against His agenda as sinners, He sent His son. Jesus came here to save that which was lost. He took sin and death to the grave, and was resurrected into new life. His resurrection in the flesh is proof that God’s word is the truth, that Jesus was who He said He was. His resurrection paves the way for restoring our purpose in this life and clear expectations for spending eternity with Him when we are done here.

Our sinful nature drags us into thoughts words and acitons that seporate us from God, the source of life. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus as lord, we are born again into new life. When we are baptized, we wash away our old self, and are raised into new life with Jesus. As we purposfully deny ourselves, pick up our cross daily and follow where Jesus leads us, we are changed. Our hearts are warmed, our minds are renewed, and our lives are transfomred. We strive to please God and actively resist temptation. We find joy in doing the good works set before us. We become willing to sacrifice in this life for promisses in the next. the kingdom of God becomes evident and manifests inside us here and now. This is only available if you believe, put your faith in Jesus, make Him Lord of our lives, and embrace the Holy Spirit operating inside us.

Jesus is “The Light”; He was the light of the world, and He handed the torch to you

Jesus lived a model life of love and truth. He loved us so much He was willing to come here as a human baby, then suffer and die to rescue us. He lived a sinless model life. He lived in perfect harmony with God the Father, He denied His own agendas and did only His Fathes will. He focused on serving others, including washing His disciples feet. He had great compassion for those in need, He fed the hungry, healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind. He brought many the good news of the kingdom of God, He encouraged repentance and a return to focus on God as center of your life. He was willing to suffer persecution and abuse in this life, for the promise of eternity with God in heaven. He even forgave those who tortured Him and put Him to death. His life was a light in this dark world, He want’s you to pick up the torch, follow His model: Living humbly, Understand God’s agenda and get aligned with His will, Be empowered by the Holy Spirit, Focused on serving others, Suffering in this life for promise in the next one, to the point of death. Become the light.

Jesus was the “Son of Man”

Was He God? Was He Human? Yes and Yes. He was a human being born in the flesh but with a divine nature direct from God. He was the expressed image of God, when you saw Him, you saw God. But He called Himsellf the “Son of Man” to highlight His human aspect. He came as a human so you could relate to Him.

He needed to be human and live a human life. He needed to fulfill the terms of the law given through Moses, if you sin, you deserve death. He needed to live the sinless life that we could not accomplish, and then shed His innocent blood as a perfect lamb sacrificed for mankind.

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17

He needed to live a human life in the flesh and live it to the letter of the law, a perfect and innocent life. He then He had to get the devil to violate the law and kill Him, an innocent man. By this amazing series of actions He god the devil judged guilty, defeated.

“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil,” Hebrews 2: 14

He took the burden of our sins on His back, He paid the price for our sins to set us free.

” who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.”1 Peter 2:24

He was born in the flesh as a baby, He was rasied up and grew in stature. He studied the scripture and became wise. He was baptised as an adult and recieved the Holy Spirit, just as He asks you to do. He humbled himselfe and served others, including washing His dissciples feet, just as He asks you to do. He did good works for those in need, just as He asks you to do. He pursued God’s will rather than His own, Just as He asks you to do. He was willing to suffer abuse in this earthly life and forgive those who administered it, for the promise of eternity with the Father, just as He asks you to do. He was willing to deny His earthly life to the point of death, on the promise of Glory to the Father, and eternity wiht Him, Just as He asks you to do.

Jesus was proof in the flesh of God’s love for us, and His promises ot us. Jesus ressureciton made Him the first born again of many, and you are to be one of the many when you believe in Him.

When Jesus says “Believers will do the works I do and more” it becomes a significant opportunity for you to step up your game as a believer.

Jesus is “The Resurrection” ; He provides a path to overcome death, and hope we will see our family and friends again after they pass.

Death in the flesh appears to be rather permanent. Jesus’ resurrection demonstrates God’s promise for us to live on with Him after this life. No one who truly follows Him shall ever die. We can have hope to see our departed friends and family again in due time. Goddbye is not goodbye forever, it is godbye from this life, see you soon enough in the next.

“So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:6-8

“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

You are dead in your sins, you are at war with God and His agenda for you, you are living for yourself, focused on earthly things and this temporary earthly life. You pursue self-serving short-term agendas rather than positioning yourself for eternity and investing in His kingdom. Focus on yourself separates you from God, and cuts you off from His protection and support. Without a direct connection to God’s love, Your heart grows cold and hardens as you experience life’s challenges. You become so focused on you and your situation that it is difficult to have compassion for others and focus on helping them.

Jesus is the manifestation of God’s promise of eternal life. God is real, God loves us so much he sent his son, Jesus is God in the flesh so you can see Him and relate to Him. Jesus suffered and died to pay the wages of our sin, He denied his earthly body and took sin to the grave. He was raised from the dead to live forever, just as you will be raised from the dead…figuratively and literally.

Belief in Jesus reconnects your soul, your innermost self, to God. Understanding His suffering for you, brings your life into perspective. If He suffered and died for me, then I owe it to Him to pay attention and devote my life to serving Him. If He forgave those who sin against Him, I should be able to forgive those who sin against me. As you purge your sinful nature, it makes room for Him to form in you. It opens the door for you to come into complete union with Him now, and stay with Him for eternity.

Belief in Jesus and the Gospel message, opens your inner mind, it elevates your thinking from the fleshly outward focus on your plight in this world, to the inner/upward spiritual focus of God’s your role in His kingdom. Jesus life, death and ressurection opens the door to renewal of your mind and release into new life. Jesus is the resurrection in you.

If you are seriously pondering all of this and you don’t believe yet, Just Ask Him!

If you still don’t believe, Just ask Him. Say: “Jesus if you are who the bible says you are, the Lord of the universe, the Word made flesh. the Truth, the Way, the Life, the Creator, the Sustainer, the Redeemer, the Savior, please reveal yourself to me in some meaningful way. If you truly gave your life for me, I want to get to know you.”

You must be serious about it though. If you ask with all your heart he will answer, If you seek Him with all your heart, you will find Him. If you do not, you will not. It is up to you! He is waiting.

If you remain serious and are still not convinved, let me know, i just might be able to help you.

Believe! He is risen. Acknowledge Him, Invite Him, Let Him lead you into the life He intended for you when He put you here, and then enjoy eternity with Him forever more.

Happy Easter