Is Jesus the God of the Old Testament ? here is an interesting answer bellow on my book.

SPECIAL THANKS
Glory to the Honorable God, respected Christians, All people! It is my privilege to thank you for getting yourself a copy of this wonderful report.
I call this book a report because it is referenced to some of the most high people and organisations that will be listed at the end to assist the compiler to get good information for you. I do not call myself a writer as most of the time I researched and compiled the information.
I would like to extend my thanks to all people who enormously co-operated in this book. Well a good compilation like this cannot happen over night. The wheels start rolling months ago. It required planning and a birds eye for details. I was fortunate enough to be backed by people like you.
I cannot thank everyone enough for their involvement and their willingness to take on the completion of tasks beyond their comfort zones.
This book also contain an interesting way of understanding how the Bible is written, each and font in the Bible has the meaning.
This is compiled for those people who still fail to understand that Jesus Christ is Our King, those who fail to understand the role Jesus Christ played and still playing in our lives. May God bless you by reading this book. It also includes some tips on how to read the Bible with understanding and the meaning of different fonts that are used in the Bible.

The Author: Thabo Mdongwe


CONTENTS














The Names of God in the Old Testament

El Shaddai – Lord God Almighty
El Elyon – The Most High God
Adonai – Lord, Master
Yahweh – Lord, Jehovah
Jehovah Nissi – The Lord My Baneer
Johovah Raah – The Lord My Shepherd
Jehovah Rapha – The Lord That Heals
Jehovah Shammah – The Lord is There
Jehovah Tsidkenu – The Lord Our Righteousness
Jehovah Mekoddishkem – The Lord Who Sanctifies You
El Olam – The Everlasting God
Elohim – God
Qanna – Jealous
Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide
Jehovah Shalom – The Lord Is Peace
Jehovah Sabaoth – The Lord of Hosts




Introduction
"Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his glory [is] above the earth and heaven." Psa 148:13

In the Old Testament times, a name was not only identification, but an identity as well. Many times a special meaning was attached to the name. Names had, among other purposes, an explanatory purpose (e.g., Nabal, whose name means "fool," is the target of Abigail's explanation to David: "For as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him:" - 1Sa 25:25). Throughout Scripture God reveals Himself to us through His names. When we study these names that He reveals to us in the Bible, we will better understand who God really is. The meanings behind God's names reveal the central personality and nature of the One who bears them.

Who is God to you?

Is He your Most High God, All sufficient One, Master, Lord of Peace, the Lord Who Will Provide? Is He your Father? We must be careful not to make God into an "it" or a "thing" to which we pray. He is our Jehovah Raah, the Lord our Shepherd. God knows us by our name, shouldn't we know Him by His?

Hallowed be Your name?

To hallow a thing is to make it holy or to set it apart to be exalted as being worthy of absolute devotion. To hallow the name of God is to regard Him with complete devotion and loving admiration. God's name is of the utmost importance (Neh 9:5); therefore we ought to reserve it a position of grave significance in our minds and hearts. We should never take His name lightly (Ex. 20:7; Lev 22:32), but always rejoice in it and think deeply upon its true meaning.
What makes Jesus so different from other religious leaders? Jesus is a unique and supreme being why? Few people assume and conclude that He was a great teacher, but the question is was He only the teacher?
During his time leaders rejected him as the Son of God, were they jealousy of Him or really He was the Son of God. Is this matter controversial or people willingly closing their eyes to the truth? Did he say that He is God? Was he the son of God or the Son of Man. I hope this book will give a clear clarity on this matter.
This book is directly quoted from Holy Bible New International Version. As it is known that one of the most fundamental principles to keep in mind regarding proper understanding of God’s Word is simple this: The Bible interprets the Bible. You may find that John 1: 1-2, 14 is clearly interpreted by Colossians 1:15.
As The booklet on Jesus Christ the Real Story from United Church of God states “For this event- God living and dying as a man if you may agree- then becomes the most amazing event in the entire history of humanity. It puts all of us in a situation that requires our full attention, because it leaves us ultimately accountable for how we choose to respond.”
Blue Letter Bible is explaining The Names Of God bellow let’s ponder:
• EL SHADDAI
(el shad-di')
All-Sufficient One, Lord God Almighty
Use in the Bible. Old Testament El Shaddai occur 7 times. El Shaddai is first used in Gen 17:1.

El Shaddai in the Septuagint: theou saddai — God Shaddai; pantokratôr (for Shaddai) — the Almighty

Meaning and Derivation: El is another name that is translated as "God" and can be used in conjunction with other words to designate various aspects of God's character. Another word much like Shaddai, and from which many believe it derived, is shad meaning "breast" in Hebrew (some other scholars believe that the name is derived from an Akkadian word Šadu, meaning "mountain," suggesting strength and power). This refers to God completely nourishing, satisfying, and supplying His people with all their needs as a mother would her child. Connected with the word for God, El, this denotes a God who freely gives nourishment and blessing, He is our sustainer.

Further references of the name El Shaddai in the Old Testament: Gen 17:1; Gen 28:3; Gen 35:11; Gen 43:14; Gen 48:3

• EL ELYON

(el el-yone')
The Most High God
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament El Elyon occurs 28 times. It occurs 19 times in Psalms. El Elyon is first used in Gen 14:18.
El Elyon in the Septuagint: ho theos ho hupsistos — the God most high
Meaning and Derivation: El is another name that is translated as "God" and can be used in conjunction with other words to designate various aspects of God's character. Elyon literally means "Most High" and is used both adjectivally and substantivally throughout the Old Testament. It expresses the extreme sovereignty and majesty of God and His highest preeminence. When the two words are combined — El Elyon — it can be translated as "the most exalted God."(Psa 57:2)
Further references of the name El Elyon in the Old Testament: Gen 14:18, Gen 14:19; Gen 14:20; Gen 14:22; Psa 57:2; Psa 78:35
• ADONAI
(ad-o-noy')
Lord, Master
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Adonai occurs 434 times. There are heavy uses of Adonai in Isaiah (e.g., Adonai Jehovah). It occurs 200 times in Ezekiel alone and appears 11 times in Daniel Chapter 9. Adonai is first used in Gen 15:2.
Adonai in the Septuagint: kurios — Lord, Master

Meaning and Derivation: Adonai is the verbal parallel to Yahweh and Jehovah. Adonai is plural; the singular is adon. In reference to God the plural Adonai is used. When the singular adon is used, it usually refers to a human lord. Adon is used 215 times to refer to men. Occasionally in Scripture and predominantly in the Psalms, the singular adon is used to refer to God as well (cf. Exd 34:23). To avoid contravening the commandment "Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain" (Exd 20:7), sometimes Adonai was used as a substitute for Yahweh (YHWH). Adonai can be translated literally as, "my lords' " (both plural and possessive).

• YAHWEH OR JEHOVA
(yah-weh)
Lord, Jehovah
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Yahweh occurs 6,519 times. This name is used more than any other name of God. Yahweh is first used in Gen 2:4.
Yahwehin the Septuagint: kurios — Lord, Master
despotês — Lord, Master, denoting the omnipotence of God (TDNT), despot, absolute RULER.

Meaning and Derivation: Yahweh is the promised name of God. This name of God which (by Jewish tradition) is too holy to voice, is actually spelled "YHWH" without vowels. YHWH is referred to as the Tetragrammaton (which simply means "the four letters"). YHWH comes from the Hebrew letters: Yud, Hay, Vav, Hay. While YHWH is first used in Genesis 2, God did not reveal Himself as YHWH until Exodus 3. The modern spelling as "Yahweh" includes vowels to assist in pronunciation. Many pronounce YHWH as "Yahweh" or "Jehovah." We no longer know for certain the exact pronunciation. During the third century A.D., the Jewish people stopped saying this name in fear of contravening the commandment "Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain" (Exd 20:7). As a result of this, Adonai is occasionally a substitute for YHWH. The following compound names which start with "YHWH" have been shown using "Jehovah." This is due to the common usage of "Jehovah" in the English of these compound names in the early English translations of the Bible (e.g., the Geneva Bible, the King James Version, etc.).


• JEHOVAH NISSI
(yeh-ho-vaw' nis-see')
The Lord My Banner, The Lord My Miracle.
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah-Nissi occurs only once in Ex 17:15.
Variant spellings: Jehovah Nisi; Jehovahnissi
Jehovah Nissi in the Septuagint: kurios kataphugê mou — the Lord is my refuge.
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" — this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Nes (nês), from which Nissi derived, means "banner" in Hebrew. In Exd 17:15, Moses, recognizing that the Lord was Israel's banner under which they defeated the Amalekites, builds an altar named Jehovah-Nissi (the Lord our Banner). Nes is sometimes translated as a pole with an insignia attached. In battle opposing nations would fly their own flag on a pole at each of their respective front lines. This was to give their soldiers a feeling of hope and a focal point. This is what God is to us: a banner of encouragement to give us hope and a focal point.
• JEHOVAH-RAAH
(yeh-ho-vaw' raw-aw')
The Lord My Shepherd
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah-Raah (The Lord my Shepherd) is used in Psalm 23.
Variant spellings: Jehovah Rohi; Jehovah Ro'eh.
Jehovah-Raah in the Septuagint: kurios poimainei me — the Lord shepherds me.
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" — this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Rô'eh from which Raah derived, means "shepherd" in Hebrew. A shepherd is one who feeds or leads his flock to pasture (Eze 34:11-15). An extend translation of this word, rea', is "friend" or "companion." This indicates the intimacy God desires between Himself and His people. When the two words are combined — Jehovah Raah — it can be translated as "The Lord my Friend."
Further references of the name Jehovah-Raah in the Old Testament: Gen 48:15; Gen 49:24; Psa 23:1; Psa 80:1.
• JEHOVAH – RAPHA
(yeh-ho-vaw' raw-faw')
The Lord That Heals
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah-Rapha (The Lord that Heals) is used in Exd 15:26.
Variant spellings: Jehovah-Rophe; Jehovah Rophecha; Jehovah Raphah.
Jehovah Rapha in the Septuagint: kurios ho iômenos se — the Lord your healer.
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Rapha (râpâ') means "to restore", "to heal" or "to make healthful" in Hebrew. When the two words are combined — Jehovah Rapha — it can be translated as "Jehovah Who Heals." (cf. Jer 30:17; Jer 3:22; Isa 30:26; Isa 61:1; Psa 103:3). Jehovah is the Great Physician who heals the physical and emotional needs of His people.
Further references of the name Jehovah Rapha in the Old Testament: Exd 15:26.

• JEHOVAH SHAMMAH
(yeh-ho-vaw' shawm'-maw)
The Lord Is There
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah Shammah occurs only once in Ezekiel 48:35
Variant spellings: Jehovah Samma
Jehovah Shammah in the Septuagint: estai to onoma autês — the name thereof.
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Shammah is derived from the Hebrew word sham, which can be translated as "there." Jehovah Shammah is a symbolic name for the earthly Jerusalem. The name indicates that God has not abandoned Jerusalem, leaving it in ruins, but that there will be a restoration.
Further references of the name Jehovah Shammah in the Old Testament: Eze 48:35

• JEHOVAH TSIDKENU
(yeh-ho-vaw' tsid-kay'-noo)
The Lord Our Righteousness
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah Tsidkenu occurs 2 times. Jehovah Tsidkenu is first used in Jer 23:6.
Variant spellings: Jehovah Tzidkaynu; Jehovah Tsidqenuw
Jehovah Tsidkenu in the Septuagint: kuriou tou theou hêmôn elalêsen pros hêmas — the Lord our God spoke to us.
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Tsedek (tseh'-dek), from which Tsidkenu derived, means "to be stiff," "to be straight," or "righteous" in Hebrew. When the two words are combined — Jehovah Tsidkenu — it can be translated as "The Lord Who is our Righteousness."
Further references of the name Jehovah Tsidkenu in the Old Testament: Jer 23:6; Jer 33:16.
• JEHOVAH MEKODDISHKEM
(yeh-ho-vaw' M-qadash)
The Lord Who Sanctifies You, The Lord Who Makes Holy
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah Mekoddishkem occurs 2 times. Jehovah Mekoddishkem is first used in Exd 31:13.

Variant spellings: Jehovah M'kaddesh
Jehovah Mekoddishkem in the Septuagint: kurios ho hagiazôn humas — the Lord that sanctifies you
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" — this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Mekoddishkem derives from the Hebrew word qâdash meaning "sanctify," "holy," or "dedicate." Sanctification is the separation of an object or person to the dedication of the Holy. When the two words are combined — Jehovah Mekoddishkem — it can be translated as "The Lord who sets you apart."
Further references of the name Jehovah Mekoddishkem in the Old Testament: Exd 31:13; Lev 20:8
• EL OLAM
(el o-lawm')
The Everlasting God, The God of Eternity, The God of the Universe, The God of Ancient Days.
Use in the Bible: El Olam is first used in Gen 21:33.
El Olamin the Septuagint: [ho] theos [ho] aiônios — the everlasting God.
Meaning and Derivation: El is another name that is translated as "God" and can be used in conjunction with other words to designate various aspects of God's character. Olam derives from the root word 'lm (which means "eternity"). Olam literally means "forever," "eternity," or "everlasting". When the two words are combined — El Olam — it can be translated as "The Eternal God."
Further references of the name El Olam in the Old Testament: Gen 21:33; Jer 10:10; Isa 26:4
• ELOHIM
(el-o-heem')
God, Judge, Creator
Use in the Bible: : In the Old Testament Elohim occurs over 2000 times. Elohim is first used in Gen 1:1.
Elohim in the Septuagint: theos — the standard Greek word for god, "a transcendent being who exercises extraordinary control in human affairs or is responsible for bestowal of unusual benefits" (BDAG). It specifically refers to the monotheistic God of Israel.
Meaning and Derivation: Elohim is translated as "God." The derivation of the name Elohim is debatable to most scholars. Some believe it derived from 'êl which, in turn, originates from the root word, 'wl (which means "strong"). Others think that Elohim is derived from another two roots: 'lh (which means "god") in conjunction with 'elôah (which means "fear"). And still others presume that both 'êl and Elohim come from 'eloah.
• QANNA
(kan-naw')
Jealous, Zealous
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Qanna occurs 6 times. Qanna is first used in Exd 20:5.
Qanna in the Septuagint: zêlôtês — jealous

Meaning and Derivation: Qanna is translated as "jealous," "zealous," or "envy." The fundamental meaning relates to a marriage relationship. God is depicted as Israel's husband; He is a jealous God, wanting all our praise for Himself and no one else. (cf. Exd 34:14)

Further references of the name Qanna in the Old Testament: Exd 20:5; Exd 34:14; Deu 4:24; Deu 5:9; Deu 6:15
• JEHOVAH JIREH
(yeh-ho-vaw' yir-eh')
The Lord Will Provide
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah-Jireh occurs only once in Gen 22:14.
Jehovah Jireh in the Septuagint: kurios eiden — the Lord has seen
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Jehovah-Jireh is a symbolic name given to Mount Moriah by Abraham to memorialize the intercession of God in the sacrifice of Isaac by providing a substitute for the imminent sacrifice of his son.
Further references of the name Jehovah Jireh in the Old Testament: Gen 22:14
• JEHOVAH-SHALOM
(yeh-ho-vaw' shaw-lome')
The Lord Is Peace
Use in the Bible: In the Old Testament Jehovah-Shalom occurs only once in Jdg 6:24.
Jehovah-Shalom in the Septuagint: eirênê kuriou — peace of the Lord.
Meaning and Derivation: Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" — this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Shalom is a derivative of shâlêm (which means "be complete" or "sound") Shalom is translated as "peace" or "absence from strife." Jehovah-Shalom is the name of an altar built by Gideon in Ophrah.
Further references of the name Jehovah-Shalom in the Old Testament: Jdg 6:24
• JEHOVAH SABAOTH
(yeh-ho-vaw' se ba'ôt)
The Lord of Hosts, The Lord of Powers
Use in the Bible: Jehovah and Elohim occur with Sabaoth over 285 times. It is most frequently used in Jeremiah and Isaiah. Jehovah Sabaoth is first used in 1Sa 1:3.
Jehovah Sabaoth in the Septuagint: kurios sabaôth — the Lord of hosts (sabaôth: Gr. transliteration of Heb. "hosts")
Meaning and Derivation: Jehovah is translated as "The Existing One" or "Lord." The chief meaning of Jehovah is derived from the Hebrew word Havah meaning "to be" or "to exist." It also suggests "to become" or specifically "to become known" - this denotes a God who reveals Himself unceasingly. Sabaoth (se bâ'ôt) means "armies" or "hosts." Jehovah Sabaoth can be translated as "The Lord of Armies" (1Sa 1:3). This name denotes His universal sovereignty over every army, both spiritual and earthly. The Lord of Hosts is the king of all heaven and earth. (Psa 24:9-10; Psa 84:3; Isa 6:5).
Further references of the name Jehovah Sabaoth in the Old Testament: 1Sa 1:11; 1Sa 17:45; 2Sa 6:18; 2Sa 7:27; 1Ki 19:14; 2Ki 3:14; 1Ch 11:9; Psa 24:10; Psa 48:8; Psa 80:4; Psa 80:19; Psa 84:3; Isa 1:24; Isa 3:15; Isa 5:16; Isa 6:5; Isa 9:19; Isa 10:26; Isa 14:22; Jer 9:15; Jer 48:1; Hsa 12:5; Amo 3:13; Mic 4:4; Nah 3:5; Hag 2:6; Zec 1:3; Mal 1:6; Hab 2:13; Zep 2:9
Description of Jesus
From NIV Bible
Jesus is described in many ways throughout the Old and New Testament.
1. When you read Revelation 1:8, Jesus is described as the “Almighty” and the Alpha and Omega.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, “says the Lord God,” who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Now I know that your question now is how do you know that statement is referred to Jesus Christ? The answer is simple, The Bible declares that Jesus will be the final judge of the World (John 5:22) and Matthew 24: 36 explains clear that the Son of man is coming although; only the Father in Heaven knows the day and the hour. Now let me once again explain Son of Man.
Son of Man was a symbolic title often used by Jesus to refer to him, perhaps to imply indirectly that he was actually the Son of God. This title is also found in the Hebrew text of Daniel 7:13 and Psalm 8:4, and God used it numerous times in the book of Ezekiel to refer to Ezekiel.


2. When you read the book of Daniel 9 : 25
Jesus is referred as the Anointed One.
An amazing prophecy from Daniel,

“Know and understand this: from the issuing of the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.”
Now to conclude concerning the fulfillment of this prophecy: in the book of Daniel, from the rebuilding of Jerusalem to the martyrdom of Christ, seventy weeks are appointed for by the martyrdom of Christ the sacrifice is accomplished and the alter destroyed. This is the prophecy of the manifestation of Christ.

3. When you read Hebrews 3:1, Jesus is referred as the Apostle and High Priest.
“Therefore holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess.
4. Hebrews 12:2, Jesus is the author and perfector of our faith
“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the write hand of the thrown of God.
5. In Acts 3:15, He is the author of life.
“You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnessed of this.”
6. Revelation 21:6, He is the Beginning and the End.
“He said to me, it is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.to him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life.
7. Mark 2:19, He is the bridegroom.
“Jesus answered, how the guests of the bridegroom can fast while he is with them, they can not, so long as they have him with them.
8. Isaiah 9:6, He is the Everlasting Father, the Mighty God.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God.
9. Romans 9:5, He is God over all.
“Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, for ever praised! Amen.
10. John 1:1, He is the Word.
A man associating himself with God
No other religious leader ever claimed to be God.
Many people who believe in God do not feel it is possible to know who God is, but God made it clear over 1,000 years before hand He would take the form of man and live on the earth.
Leviticus 26:12, “I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people.”
Ezekiel 37:27, “My dwelling place will be with them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.”
Just one moment take a look at what the New Testament has to say about the fulfillment of the prophecies:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. That is John 1:1-2, 14.
Interpreting the above, Colossians 1:15-16. “He is the image of the invisible God, the first born over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created by him and for him.”
What evidence exactly is available that points to Jesus’ claims of deity?
I am the living bread that came down from heaven. You are from below, I am from above. You are of the world; I am not of this world. (John 6:51, 8:23).
Jesus here tells us plainly that He is from another world and came to earth from heaven.
Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began. (John 17:5). Here He tells us that He and the Father shared glory before the world was created. Remember you give glory only to God, God only deserves the glory, but how come Jesus share that glory with the father, does this mean he is God?
Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. (John 17:24). Again, he states that, he existed with God before the earth was formed.
What does this exactly mean?
A Man claim to be God
“Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day. He saw it and was glad. “You are not fifty years old, the Jews said to him, “and you have seen Abraham”! “ I tell you the truth, Jesus answered, Before Abraham was born, I am!” at this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself slipping away from the temple grounds. (John 8:56-59). Even though Abraham lived 2,000 years before him, Jesus says he already existed before Abraham was born.
Perhaps the boldest claim Jesus made about His identity was the statement, “Mostly assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM”. Translated to English, His statement may appear or sound confusing. But in the Aramaic or Hebrew language in which He spoke, He was making a claim that immediately led the people to try to stone Him for blasphemy.
What was going on here? Jesus was revealing His identity as the actual One whom the Jews knew as God in the Old Testament. He was saying in one word that He existed before Abraham and that He was the same Being as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Reminding you back, anciently when the God first revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 3:13-14, Moses asked Him what His name was. “I AM WHO I AM,” was the reply. Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.”
Jesus clearly claimed to be this same Being the “I AM” OF Exodus 3:14, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of the Old Testament.
“I AM” is related to the personal name for God in the Old Testament, the Hebrew name YHWH. When this name appears in our English Bibles, it is commonly rendered using small capital letters as Lord. It is translated as “Jehovah” in some Bible versions.
When Jesus made this startling statement, the Jews knew exactly what He meant. They picked up stones to kill Him because they thought He was guilty of blasphemy.
“I AM” and the related YHWH are the names of God that infer absolute timeless self-existence. Although impossible to translate accurately and directly into English. YHWH conveys meanings of “The Eternal One,” “The One Who Always Exists”
Jesus Identified with YHWH
Jesus said of Him, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11), David in the first verse of the famous 23rd Psalm, declared that “The Lord is my shepherd.” Jesus claims to be the judge of all men and nations (John 5:22, 27). Yet Joel 3:12 says the Lord “will sit to judge all nations.”
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 8; 12). Isaiah 60:19 sys, “The Lord will be to you an everlasting light, and your God your glory.” Also, David says in Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light.”
In Revelation 1:17 Jesus says He is the first and the last, which is identical to what YHWH sys of Himself in Isaiah 44:6 “I am the First and I am the Last.” There is no question that Jesus understood Himself as the Lord (YHWH) of the Old Testament.
When Jesus was arrested, His us of the same term had electrifying effect on those in the arresting party. “Now when He said to them, “I am He,’ they drew back and fell to the ground” (John 18:6). Notice here that, “He” is in italics, meaning the word was added by the translators and isn’t in the original wording. However, their attempt to make Jesus’ answer more grammatically correct obscures the fact that He was likely again claiming to be the “I AM” of the Old Testament Scriptures.
Is Jesus Really a Creator?
Then God said, “Let us make man in our image and in our likeness and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Genesis 1:26
If you read this God did not say “me” and “my” but “us” and “our”. Who is “us”? God the Father, God the Holy Spirit and God the Son, Jesus. Genesis 1 records many creative acts of God before He created mankind. But notice verse 26, nowhere in the previous verses of Genesis did God use this phrase, ‘Let us” Why does Genesis now use this plural expression? Why have Bible translators down through the centuries understood that the plural was necessary in this verse?
Who is the Us mentioned here, why is the plural Our also used twice in this sentence? Throughout the first chapter of Genesis the Hebrew word translated “God” is Elohim, a plural noun denoting more than one being. Why did our Creator purposefully use these plural expressions? Is God more than one person? Who and what is He? How can we understand?
I and My Father are one
Jesus said, “I and my Father are one.” Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many great miracles from the Father, for which of these do you stone me?” We are not stoning you for any of these, replied the Jews, but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.” (John 10:30-33).
The Jewish leaders of that day even said Jesus claims to be God.



Jesus Claimed to forgive sins
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven,” Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone? Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, Why are you thinking these things? Which is easier: to say, Get up take your mat and walk? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to earth to forgive sins. (Mark 2 : 5-10)
Only God has authority to forgive sins but the Son of Man did. He said he has the authority to, is he because he is God? That’s what he was implying. Jesus claimed to be divine in various other ways. When Jesus healed one paralyzed man, He also said to him, “Son your sins are forgiven.” As rightly understood by the scribes he was indeed implying that He was God, because only God has the authority to forgive sins. The scribes knew Jesus was claiming an authority that belonged to God only. In Jeremiah 31:34: “No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, ‘know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”
Let us examine Jesus as the Word of God
John 1:1-15, Jesus is referred as the Word of God.
John’s gospel is different! In the pages of this wonderful book, w see a side of Christ that other writers do not touch on. In this opening chapter, John paints out a picture of Jesus: the Word of God. Four truths are revealed in these verses about the Word of God.
• Jesus is the preexistent Word
He is the constant Word, according to this verse, Jesus has simply always existed! He didn’t come into being in Bethlehem, but He has been here throughout all the endless ages of eternities past. ( was in verse 1 = “ always has been.” Contrast this with was in verse 6. This word used concerning John the Baptize simply means “to become.” John became, but Jesus always has been!).
• He is the communing Word
This phrase says that Jesus “was with God.” That is, He was present in heaven in the presence of God, yet He stood as a distinct person.(When this phrase is taken along side the other 2 in this verse, the reality of the Trinity is on display. This verse teaches us that Jesus is God, yet He is still a unique being. Jesus Christ was not an after thought with God. He was not something conjured up when things got out of control. Jesus was there when God moved to make man in His image. (Genesis 1:26). Jesus was there in heaven when the plan to redeem the world was formulated (Revelations 13:8, Eph. 1:4, Titus 1:2, 1 Pet. 1:19-20. Since before time began, Jesus was with the Father in Heaven.
• He is the Controversial Word
When Jesus came preaching repentance (Mark 1:15), men thought He was strange. when He began to heal and perform miracles, men thought He was a prophet sent by God (John 3:2). When He spoke the Word of God with power, men thought he was amazing (Luke 4:36). However, when Jesus claimed equality with God, men thought He was crazy (John 19:7). He stopped being a blessing and became a controversy when He claimed to be God (John 14:9),”Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father?’
Men still grapple with these truth! They are willing to accept the humble Christ, the teaching Christ, the meek Christ, the dead Christ, the serving Christ, however they will not give acknowledgement to the God/Man Jesus Christ.
• He is the Creative Word
This verse tells us that Jesus was the energy behind the creation of the universe. He spoke and it was! He stood on the edge of nothing and spoke all this into existence, (Col. 1:16-17).







Let us examine Jesus as the Son of Man

John’s majestic Gospel serves as a magnificent gallery which display the glory of Jesus as no other literature on earth can.

Who is Jesus Exactly?

• First let’s ask Humanity
a. What did men say in the past? – during the life of Christ, men had a lot to say about Him and who they thought He was.
John, the Baptize – A holy man willing to die for his faith. Even King Herod thought that Jesus was John the Baptize raised from the dead (Matt. 14:1-2).

Elijah – the greatest of all the Old Testament prophets. The Jews were expecting Elijah to return just before Messiah came, (Mal.4:5). Some believed that Jesus was the forerunner, but not the messiah.

Jeremiah – A holy prophet who was expected to return to earth just before Messiah came. He was supposed to bring with him the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant and the Altar of Incense which he had hidden in Mount Nebo before he died.

One of the Prophets – A man of God sent with a message of their time, or a man in whom dwelt the spirit of one of the greatest prophets.
Note: all of these views elevated Jesus above the status of an ordinary man. They show that the Jews at least believed Him to be a great man, even a holy man, but their views of Him fall far short of what is required for Salvation.
b. Not everyone on Jesus’ day thought He was a great man. Some thought He was nothing more than a nobody. Some even thought He was an evil man.
 A lowly carpenter (Mark 6:3)
 The son of Joseph (John 6:42)
 A sinner (John 9:24)
 An illegitimate child (John 8:41)
 A devil (Matt. 12:24)
 A mad man (John 10:20)
 A fool and the object of contempt and scorn (Matt. 27:38-43)
c. Even his half-brothers had harsh things to say about Jesus (John 7:3-5)

Note: If they say these types of things about Jesus now, what will they say about Him when He isn’t here on earth, working miracles and demonstrating His power (Luke 23:31)?

Just as men had an opinion concerning the identity of Jesus Christ in His day, so they still do today. All around the World live people who have an opinion concerning Jesus Christ. Some think He was a good man. Others think He was a great teacher. People hold all types of ideas concerning who Jesus Christ is. Since humanity cannot help us determine the identity of Jesus, then let’s ask Heaven.
• Let’s ask Heaven
a. The Sovereign - notice what God the Father says about Jesus. “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At the moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”
(Matt. 3: 16-17).
b. The Spirits - The spirit world has something to say about Jesus.
Heavenly Spirits (Matt.1:18-25)
“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ cam about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her Husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Marry home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”- Which means, “God with us.” When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.


 Hellish Spirits – (Matt. 8:29, Luke 4:41; James 2:19).
“What do you want with us, Son of God?” they shouted. “Have you come here to torture us before the appointed time?” (Matt.8:29).

“Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Christ. (Luke 4:41).

“You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that-and shudder.
(James 2:19).
c. The Scriptures

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6).

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, thought you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, Whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2).

“A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse, from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him- the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of Counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord – and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash round his waist. (Isaiah 11: 3-5).

“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “When I will raise up to David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. (Jeremiah 23:5).
Even the names given to Jesus in the Bible speak of his position: He is called Lord, this implies that He is in control. That He is deity. He is called Jesus, this name means “:JEHOVAH” is salvation. He is called Christ meaning “the Anointed One.” It refers to Jesus as the One chosen by God to be the Messiah. The Bible is crystal clear on Who Jesus Christ is!
d. The Saints – Many of the greatest figures of the New Testament offered their testimony to the identity of the Lord Jesus Christ. As Jesus told Peter in Matt. 16:17, the knowledge of Who Jesus is does not come from the human heart, it comes from Heaven above.
Let’s ask two of the great man of God: John the baptize and Paul.
“ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God." (John 1:34). John here is even willing to testify that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Note when you are about to testify you need to be sure of what you are about to testify about, but John can because He is pretty sure of what He saw.
Let’s see what does Paul has to say about Jesus Christ.
“At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God.” Wow interesting and amazing from Paul, is this the same Paul who was Saul recently, who despised Christians? I am sure people were asking themselves this question. I wonder what Paul saw, Paul here is not willing to testify that Jesus is the Son of God as John the Baptize is, but Paul is in the synagogues testifying already. Praise God, Paul fore sure saw what John saw but it was kind of urgent to him.

e. Let’s hear from other Hearts
In the bible pages, several people had a personal encounter with Jesus that forever changed their lives. I want to share a few of their statements about Jesus with you.
 Simeon – Luke 2:28-32, “ Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.”
 Nathaniel – John 1:49 “Then Nathanael declared, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are the King of Israel.”
 Simon Peter – Matt. 16:16, “ Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”
 The Woman at the Well – John 4:29, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did, Could this be Christ?”
 Martha – John 11 : 27, “Yes, Lord,” she told him, “I believe you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the World.
 The dying Thief – Luke 23:39-43, “One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” but the other criminal rebuked him. “don’t you fear God,” he said, “Since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”
The Thief knew that Jesus has the kingdom.

 The Roman Centurion – Mark 15:39, “And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he say, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
 Thomas – John 20:24-28, “Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” but He said to them, “unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into
 his side, I will not believe it.” A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” then He said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!"

Now we said earlier that Jesus Christ was or is the God of the Old Testament. Let’s prove it by just looking at these few accounts:
 Two revealed in the Old Testament
At this juncture we should remember that Kind David of Israel was also a prophet (Act 2:30). God gave him incredible insights into the nature of God and God’s rule over all creation. David is called “the man whom God exalted, the anointed of the God of Jacob, the favorite of the Strong One of Israel” (2 Samuel 23:1).
Here was a man truly inspired by God’s Spirit. “The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me,” he said, “and His word was on my tongue”. Our Creator revealed many truths through David and saw to it that his words were preserved in the Holy Scriptures – primarily in many of the Psalms but also in the book of Samuel, Kings and Chronicles.
In one of his own psalm David said, “The Lord says to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”
Note the striking description of Jesus as our Lord. It corresponds here to the thought of Psalm 110 : 1, in which David called Him, ‘My lord.” In this remarkable psalm the Father is talking to the Son in prophetic vision – “The Lord said to my [David’s] Lord …” Then, about 1000 years later, the apostle Peter confirms the identity of the two Beings: “For David did not ascend into Heavens {He awaits the resurrection}, but he says himself: ‘ The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand, till I make your enemies your footstool.
Remember this important rule for biblical understanding: Check the context. Verse 36 identifies these two Beings: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God [the father has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” How wonderfully clear! These crucial passages – both in Psalm 110 and Acts 2 are talking prophetically about the two members of the divine family: the Father and the Son.
 A governing Kingdom
Another Old Testament book likewise confirms the existence of two divine Beings. The Prophet Daniel, a man greatly beloved by God, gives us an insightful look into the heavenly realm. Although God is spirit (John 4:24), which is normally invisible to the human eye (Colossians 1:15), the prophet was permitted to see these two Beings in his mind. As the apostle John would several centuries later, Daniel received a vision of events on the spirit plane.
“I watched till thrones were put in place and the Ancient of Days was seated, his garments was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool” (Daniel 7:9). Daniel records a striking description of the Father. Just as Jesus later revealed, God the Father, while a spirit Being, nevertheless has form and shape (John 5:37).
Daniel also saw a large and faithful angelic host constantly serving his Father. “A thousand stood before Him” (Daniel 7:10). Angels are spirit beings too (Hebrews 1:7), and yet they are also portrayed with form and shape.
Daniel continues: “I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He [the Son of Man] came to the Ancient of Days [God the Father], and they [the angelic host] brought Him near before Him” (Daniel 7:13). Time and time again in the New Testament, Jesus called Himself “THE SON OF MAN.”
Continuing, just like in Hebrews 1:8, Jesus is described in Daniel as possessing a kingdom: “then to Him was given dominion [rulership] and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations and languages should serve Him” (Daniel 7:14).
In the New Testament, Revelation 20:4-6 pictures the Millennium, the first 1,000 years of the utopian rule of Christ and His saints. Daniel, too, describes Jesus’ Kingdom: “His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His Kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed” (Daniel 7:14).
Christ’s righteous reign will continue far beyond the bounds of the Millennium. Isaiah 9:6-7 tells us it will last forever. Indeed, the Kingdom of God ultimately denotes a level of existence to which human beings may be raised through a transformation from flesh to spirit (John 3:3-8, 1Cor. 15-50-51). This transformation entails becoming a glorified member of the family of God. Thus the God family is also the ruling God Kingdom – the Kingdom of forming your life.
On concluding on this matter

Consider first the following people who saw the Lord [Yahweh] in the Old Testament:
 Hagar [Gen 16:7-13]
 Abraham [Gen 18 – 19 : 1]
 Jacob [Gen 32 : 28 see Hosea 12 ;3-5]
 Moses [Exodus 33:11]
 Joshua [Joshua 5;13-6:2]
 Gideon [Judges 6:11-23]
 Manoah [Judges 13:2-22]
 Isaiah [Isaiah 6:5]
 Job [Job 42:5]
Who did they see? It was not God the Father [John 1:18, 6:46].
“And the Father himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form (John 5:37).
“No-one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him know.” (John 1:18).
“ No-one has seen the Father except the one who is from God, only he has seen the Father.” (John 6:46).
According to Wayne Blank (The God of the Old Testament)
“The God said, “Let Us make man in our image, after Our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.” So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:26-27)
Who was “US” and “Our”?
God existed as the Father and the Word, or Logos:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God. He was in the beginning with God, all things were made through Him, and without him was not anything made that was made.” (John 1:1-3)
“And the word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth, we have beheld His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father (John 1:14).
Who was “The God of the Old Testament”?
"Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth." So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." (Genesis 1:26-27 RSV)
Who was "Us" and "Our"?
God exists as The Father and the Word, or Logos:
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3 RSV) (see The Father and The Logos)
"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld His glory, glory as of the only Son from The Father." (John 1:14 RSV) (see Jesus Christ)




Who Was "The God Of The Old Testament"?
Jacob, Moses and Hagar saw God:
"So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, "For I have seen God face to face, and yet my life is preserved." (Genesis 32:30 RSV)
"Then Moses and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel went up, and they saw the God of Israel; and there was under His feet as it were a pavement of sapphire stone, like the very heaven for clearness. And He did not lay His hand on the chief men of the people of Israel; they beheld God, and ate and drank." (Exodus 24:9-11 RSV)
"So she called The Name of The Lord who spoke to her, "Thou art a God of seeing"; for she said, "Have I really seen God and remained alive after seeing Him?" Therefore the well was called Beer-lahairoi; it lies between Kadesh and Bered. And Hagar bore Abram a son; and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael." (Genesis 16:13-15 RSV)
But, no man or woman has ever seen God (The Father):
"For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only Son, Who is in the bosom of The Father, He has made Him known." (John 1:17-18 RSV)
The "God of the Old Testament" was the Logos of God, Who was later born as Jesus Christ:
"I want you to know, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same supernatural food and all drank the same supernatural drink. For they drank from the supernatural Rock which followed them, and the Rock was Christ." (1 Corinthians 10:1-4 RSV) (see Rock Of Ages)


The Logos of God
It was the Logos, or Word, Who was later born as the human Jesus Christ, that created and spoke to Adam, for "all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made" (John 1:3 RSV). When Adam sinned, when he chose Satan's way, mankind was cut off from God (The Father) until Christ, "the second Adam" (1 Corinthians 15:45-49) paid the penalty for all sin.
Despite the obvious implication of the "us" and "our" of Genesis 1:26 (that some have interpreted to mean that God was merely speaking to Himself figuratively, such as when a human king would say, "We have decided," when speaking only of himself), the existence of The Father was unknown until Jesus Christ revealed Him: "All things have been delivered to Me by My Father; and no one knows Who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him." (Luke 10:22 RSV)
Although surprising to some, mankind's knowledge about God increased in stages through Bible History according to God's will, at times of His choosing e.g. "And God said to Moses, "I am The Lord. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My Name The Lord I did not make Myself known to them." (Exodus 6:2-3 RSV)
It was the Logos/Jesus Who revealed The Father's existence when He revealed His Own existence. For that, Jesus was fiercely rejected and accused of blasphemy by the religious authorities of His day when He rightfully claimed to be the Son of God because they were not aware that God exists as The Father and The Word/Logos. Before He was born as a human, no one knew that there was a Logos, so they then, as many still do now, assumed that the "God of the Old Testament" was The Father .
Rock Of Ages
"I want you to know, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, and all ate the same supernatural food and all drank the same supernatural drink. For they drank from the supernatural Rock which followed them, and the Rock was Christ." (1 Corinthians 10:1-4 RSV)

Many people, when they first come across the above Scripture, are somewhat surprised to read, "the Rock was Christ," way back at the time of Moses. But there it is, in plain and simple language - The Logos (Logos is the original Greek word of the New Testament that is translated into English as Word), Who was later born as the human Jesus Christ, led the Israelites in the Exodus.
It should not be all that surprising if we keep in mind that The Logos, Who became Jesus Christ, existed, and has been active, from before The Seven Days of Creation. The apostle John describes very well what Jesus Christ was, and was doing, before His birth as a human:

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3 RSV)
It should not be all that surprising if we keep in mind that The Logos, Who became Jesus Christ, existed, and has been active, from before The Seven Days of Creation. The apostle John describes very well what Jesus Christ was, and was doing, before His birth as a human:
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made." (John 1:1-3 RSV)
And -
"The Word became flesh and lived for a while among us." (John 1:14 RSV)
Rock is a very strong and durable substance. You can go outside and pick up a rock that could be many millions of years old. Rock well suits, as far as physical substances can go, the analogy of an strong and eternal spirit being. The term is used extensively through The Bible:
• "There is none Holy like The Lord, there is none besides Thee; there is no Rock like our God." (1 Samuel 2:2 RSV)
• "my God, my Rock, in Whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my Savior; Thou savest me from violence." (2 Samuel 22:3 RSV)
• "To Thee, O Lord, I call; my Rock" (Psalm 28:1 RSV)
• "Thou art my Father, my God, and the Rock of my salvation." (Psalm 89:26 RSV)
• "O come, let us sing to The Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation! " (Psalm 95:1 RSV)
"And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed, nor shall its sovereignty be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand for ever; just as you saw that a stone [NIV Rock] was cut from a mountain by no human hand, and that it broke in pieces the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold. A great God has made known to the king what shall be hereafter. The dream is certain, and its interpretation sure." (Daniel 2:44-45 RSV).
Fact Finder: Was the Rock the Creator of humans?
Deuteronomy 32:18


Final Conclusion
Jesus is God, What does the Bible say about Jesus?
Does the Bible, which is the earliest and most historically reliable source, actually say Jesus is God? What does it tell us about Jesus and His identity?
Let’s take a brief look at a few of the many passages that clearly and consistently answer that question, straight from the pages of Scripture. We will begin by going back an additional 700 years before the life of Christ, to the Old Testament book of Isaiah.
How does Jesus becomes God according to the Prophecies?

• Divine Messiah predicted in the Old Testament

Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.1
Immanuel literally means: God with us. See also Matthew 1:23; Jesus was God with us.

• This Messiah would be born a human son, but have a higher nature

• Isaiah 9:6: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
This was a radical statement coming from a monotheistic Jewish prophet -- especially calling a human being Mighty God; but one that God fulfilled centuries later in Christ.
• A couple hundred years later, but still more than half a millennium before Jesus walked the earth, more was predicted about the Messiah’s divine nature



• Daniel 7:13-14: There before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven . . . He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.

Son of Man was the primary title Jesus used for Himself -- and this passage shows that this was a clear and strong claim of deity. And in Mark, the earliest of the four Gospels, He also included the unmistakable phrase, coming on the clouds of heaven and applied it to Himself (Mark 14:62). His listeners got the point, refused to believe it, and added it to their reasons to try to kill Him.
Jesus is God His Earthly Ministry
• The baby Jesus worshiped by the Magi
Matthew 2:11: On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Along with being led to the site where Jesus was born, these Magi were apparently informed by God about Jesus divine identity, and so they responded appropriately by worshiping Him.
• Jesus accepted worship from His disciples
Matthew 14:32-33: And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, Truly you are the Son of God.

In a Jewish culture, only the one true God can be worshiped; their actions show that they acknowledged Jesus as being divine. And Jesus didn’t correct them or say, Don’t you realize that I’m just a mortal prophet? Stop worshiping me! Rather, He accepted their worship, knowing He really was God in human flesh.

• Jesus claim about Himself
John 8:58-59: "I tell you the truth, Jesus answered,before Abraham was born, I am! At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds.

This is a powerful double claim from Jesus: first, that He pre-existed His human birth and was actually alive and present (as God) before Abraham; second, that His title was I am -- which was the same title used for Jehovah God in Exodus 3:14. His listeners again got the point, and picked up stones to execute Him!
• Another of Jesus claims of deity
John 10:30-33: I and the Father are one. Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me? We are not stoning you for any of these, replied the Jews, but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.

It couldn’t be clearer than it is here: Jesus highly educated listeners understood His claim of deity. They only had two possible responses: to humble themselves and bow before Him as the Magi and the disciples had done earlier, or reject His claim and judge Him as a blasphemer. Unfortunately they chose the latter option. But notice that Jesus doesn’t argue with their accusation, because it was accurate. He really was claiming to be God!
• Thomas response to the resurrected Jesus
John 20:27-29: Then He said to Thomas, Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe. Thomas said to him, My Lord and my God! Then Jesus told him, Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

This disciple realized, because of Jesus resurrection, who Jesus really was -- and humbly worshiped Him and declared His true identity: My Lord and my God! Jesus not only accepts this declaration, but blesses all of the disciples -- and all of us today -- who come to the same realization and place of humble worship.
Jesus is God, He is Worshipped
• Jesus accepted worship prior to His ascension
Matthew 28:16-17: Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.

Note that Jesus was worshiped at His birth, throughout His ministry, after His resurrection, and again here -- right before His physical ascension into heaven. His divine nature, as a member of the Godhead (along with the Father and the Holy Spirit), was never questioned by Him or by those who really knew who He was and followed Him.
• Paul’s understanding as an apostle and leader of the church
Colossians 1:15-16; 2:9: He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. . . . For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form. . .

And in Titus 2:13-14 Paul refers to him as our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us. .

Paul’s letters were some of the earliest Christian writings, with most of them actually pre-dating the four Gospels -- yet they make some of the strongest statements concerning the first church’s clear understanding of Jesus as the Creator; God in human form.
• Jesus will be worshiped by every creature in heaven Revelation 5:13-14: Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever! The four living creatures said, Amen, and the elders fell down and worshiped.

The last book in the Bible points prophetically to the time where every living creature will know and acknowledge that Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29) is also the God who we must praise, honor, and worship -- and certainly was not a mere mortal whose identity needed upgrading by Constantine (Roman emperor) hundreds of years after He walked this planet!
• Jesus is God, Why this matters so much
But Jesus and His followers made the truth very clear, as we’ve seen in the pages of the earliest records, concerning who He was and is -- and how imperative it is that we understand and embrace that truth. Look at His sobering words about the vital importance of His identity.
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. . . .

But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. . .You do not know me or my Father. . .I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins.

Even as He spoke, many put their faith in him. To [them] Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John chapter 8
I myself not going to decide for you, or tell you what to do but what is important here is to understand that Jesus Christ of Nazareth was not just an ordinary man like me and you, and he can never be compared with any man. Even the Angels did acknowledge the fact that he was the most high. “And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, ‘Let all God’s angels worship him.” Colossians 2:18 is telling us that we are not to worship even the angels because they are like us. Throughout the Word of God the teaching is very clear that men are to worship only God.
GOD BLESS YOU.
ADDITIONAAL INFORMATION [BONUS]

Bible Interpretation
There are four keywords to understanding any Bible passage - observation, interpretation, evaluation, and application.
• Observation: What are the facts? What do the words mean? What comes before and after to put the passage in context? Who is speaking? And to whom?
• Interpretation: What did the passage mean to the original audience two or three thousand years ago? Are we making the mistake of interpreting the passage through our own experiences rather than those of the original audience? Is the passage using literary techniques like allegory, hyperbole, metaphor or parable to make its point?
• Evaluation: What does the passage mean to us today? Can it be applied directly today, or do we need to apply the underlying principle to conditions very different than when it was originally written?
• Application: How should I apply what I learn from this passage to live a more godly life? Do I need to change my attitudes or actions as a result?
(Adapted from Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary (c)1986, Thomas Nelson Publishers)
As an example, we can try using this method to understand Exodus 20:3-5.
• Observation: Looking back to Exodus 19, we see that the Hebrew people had escaped from slavery in Egypt three months before and were traveling to the Promised Land. This is the first of the Ten Commandments that God gave to Moses on Mount Sinai. The passage forbids making or worshipping idols or worshipping any other gods. Idols are images or symbols of false gods that are worshipped. Most of the Hebrews' neighbors were pagans at that time in history, and idol worship and worship of multiple gods was very common.
• Interpretation: When the ancient Hebrews got discouraged, they often lapsed into worshipping the idols and multiple gods of the pagan peoples they came in contact with instead of worshipping God. This Commandment said that, even in hard times, they must put their trust in God alone.
• Evaluation: Paganism has virtually disappeared from Western culture today. So, does this Commandment mean anything to us? What are we tempted to substitute for God in our lives? Do we put our trust in wealth more than in God? Do we seek power over others instead of seeking God? Do we look for fulfillment in pleasure instead of in God? Many people believe these things are the idols and false gods of today's world.
• Application: We may need to honestly and prayerfully examine our priorities to see if God is really more important to us than anything else in our lives.
The Observation and Interpretation steps are fairly objective, and Bible commentaries and other study materials are very helpful. The Evaluation and Application steps are very individual. It is in honestly and prayerfully considering these steps that we can deepen our understanding and faith.
Literary Forms of the Bible
It is helpful to understand the styles of writing used in the Bible, especially since some of those styles are no longer commonly used.
A parable is a simple story that helps us understand a spiritual or moral concept. Jesus was the master of the parable, and a large part of His teachings come to us in the form of the parables he told to his disciples and other people. The plain facts of a parable story are usually meaningless in themselves. It is by analogy or similarity with the story that we gain an understanding of the spiritual or moral lesson of the parable. In the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-8) Jesus tells a story about a man who sowed seed on a farm. Some of the seed fell on rocks or pathways or among thorns where it could not grow. Other seed fell on good ground where it produced a bountiful crop. However, the point of this story has nothing to do with farming techniques. As Jesus explained in Luke 8:11-15, the seed represents the Word of God, which is offered to all people. Like the seed that fell in bad places, the Word of God does not produce good results in people who reject it for one reason or another. But, like the seed that fell on good ground, the Word of God grows strong within people who are receptive and it bears good (spiritual) fruit.
A simile uses "like" or "as" to give us a mental picture of something by comparing it to something else. "As the deer pants for water, so I long for you, O God." (Psalms 42:1) and "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness." (Matthew 23:27) are examples of similes.
A metaphor is just a simile with the "like" or "as" left out. "I am the good shepherd" (John 10:11) does not mean Jesus herds sheep. It is a metaphor meaning Jesus is our master and protector in the same way as a shepherd is master and protector of his sheep. "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14) does not mean we glow in the dark. It is a metaphor meaning our good example can show others the way to Christ like a lamp shows us the way in the dark.
Hyperbole is deliberate exaggeration to make a point and is very common in the Bible. Examples include "Rivers of water run down from my eyes, Because men do not keep Your law." (Psalms 119:136) and "And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written." (John 21:25).
An Anthropomorphism attributes human characteristics or experiences to God. Examples include "The eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His". (2 Chronicles 16:9), and "For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil. (1 Peter 3:12). These verses do not mean that God, who is Spirit, has eyes, ears and a face like us. Instead, they tell us that God is always seeking righteousness among us and opposing evil.
Irony is saying one thing but meaning the opposite. Paul's tongue-in-cheek praise of the vain false teachers in 1 Corinthians 4:8 is an example of irony in the Bible.
Apocalypse comes from a Greek word meaning "uncovering" or "revealing." Apocalyptic literature uses elaborate visions, powerful symbols and numbers to reveal heavenly secrets. The New Testament book of Revelation and parts of the Old Testament books of Daniel, Isaiah, Ezekiel and Zechariah are written in apocalyptic form.
Most of the apocalyptic works were written during times of severe persecution. The symbols were clearly understood by the initiated but not by the persecutors. In Revelation, "Babylon" is used as a code word for Rome and the Roman Empire (Revelation 14:8, 16:19, 17:5, 18:2, 10, 21). Hebrew letters were also used for numbers, and the beast whose number is 666 (Revelation 13:18) is often assumed to be a reference to the Roman emperor Nero because of the similarity of "Nero Caesar" and "666" when written in Hebrew.
Context
The Bible is not a collection of "one-liners." All verses must be interpreted in the context of the verses that come before and after them, the whole passage, the chapter, the book and even the whole Bible. It is the nature of language that it takes many sentences or even paragraphs to convey a complex concept. A single Bible verse or passage often tells us only one aspect of a topic. We must look at all the Bible passages on a particular topic to get the true picture. If we look at just one or a few verses, we can get an incomplete view or even a totally wrong view of the Bible's teachings.
Paul writes to the Thessalonians:
For you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. (NIV, 1 Thessalonians 5:2)
Taken by itself, it would be difficult to even guess what this verse means; it could be interpreted many different ways. But in the context of 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 as well as Matthew 24:42-44, Mark 13:33-37 and Luke 12:40, it clearly means the second coming of Jesus will be sudden and unexpected.
John 3:16 is one of the best known and most loved verses in the Bible and is an excellent one-sentence summary of the Christian faith:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV, John 3:16)
Some people think this means that all we have to do is believe in Jesus as God's Son to assure our salvation. But in the context of John 3:16-21 as well as many other New Testament passages (e.g., Matthew 7:21-23, 25:31-46, Luke 10:25-37, John 14:21-23, Romans 2:6-10, Hebrews 10:26-31, James 2:20-24), it is clear that the word "believes" in John 3:16 also implies repentance and obedience to God's commandments.
Progressive Revelation
Around 1250 B.C., the Jews escaped from slavery in Egypt and spent 40 years wandering in the desert before coming to their new homeland. God gave the original Old Testament Law to Moses at that time. As the Jews developed a stable civilization, God sent numerous prophets to correct their errors and to refine their understanding of Him and His intentions for His chosen people. Finally, God sent His Son, Jesus, to accomplish His plan of salvation.
Jesus and His disciples radically reinterpreted the Old Testament Law; they brought a new era of the rule of love and spiritual truth instead of rule by law (Luke 10:25-28, John 1:16-17, 13:34-35, Romans 8:1-4, 1 Corinthians 9:20-21, Ephesians 2:14-18).
If we are looking for guidance on a topic, we must consider which Bible teaching reflects the most recent revelation from God. The Bible's teachings about retaliation and revenge are a good example of progressive revelation. First, at the time of Abraham, unlimited revenge for a wrong done was considered normal and proper (Genesis 34:1-2, 25-29). Later, the Law of Moses limited revenge to an equal injury for any injury done:
If anyone injures his neighbor, whatever he has done must be done to him: fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth. As he has injured the other, so he is to be injured. (NIV, Leviticus 24:18-20)
Finally, when Jesus came, He said we should not take any revenge at all:
You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. (NIV, Matthew 5:38-42)
Exegesis vs. Eisegesis
Exegesis means drawing out the true meaning of a Bible passage, and it should be the goal of all Bible study. It means understanding the meaning of all the words in a passage. It means putting the passage in the proper historical and textual context to determine what it meant to its original audience. Finally, it involves thought and prayer to determine how it applies to today's world and to our own lives.
Eisegesis means reading one's own ideas into interpretation of the Bible. We all have our own beliefs, world view and biases, and letting them influence our interpretation of the Bible is an ever-present danger! Sometimes we think we understand a passage and unintentionally read our own meaning into it without going through the steps required for proper exegesis. Emotionally charged topics like abortion, sex, salvation and church doctrine pose a great temptation to prove a point by quoting a verse out of context or quoting selected verses while ignoring other relevant passages. But we must let God speak to us through the Bible and not try to make it say what we would like to hear.
In some ways the Bible is like a jigsaw puzzle. We cannot discover its true meaning until we are able to put the pieces together the right way. Prayer, study, group discussions, knowledge of Bible history and an understanding of the life and literary styles of Biblical times are things that help us put that puzzle together.
Where to Start?
Logically, we should read the Old Testament first since it serves as the background for the New Testament, but the life and teachings of Jesus and His apostles are most important for Christians to understand. So, for understanding the most important lessons of the Bible, we recommend reading in this order:
1. Luke is possibly the most complete story of Jesus' life and teachings. Matthew and Mark are similar.
2. Matthew Chapters 5, 6 and 7 contain Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount - the heart of Jesus' ethical and moral teachings and the basis of Christian living.
3. John is a very different Gospel from Matthew, Mark and Luke. Its theological perspective gives us a view into the spiritual meanings of Jesus' life and ministry.
4. Genesis contains the earliest recorded history of the Jewish people and tells their beliefs about God and their relationship with Him. Christianity had its beginnings with the Jews, so our understanding of Christianity cannot be complete without an understanding of the roots of Judaism.
5. Exodus tells of the Jews' escape from captivity under the leadership of Moses. It contains the essence of the Jewish laws, including the Ten Commandments. Like Genesis, it serves as important background for Christianity.
6. Romans is the best summary of the teachings of the apostle Paul, the first and most influential interpreter of Jesus' life and works.
After reading these six books, you should know enough about the Bible to decide what to explore in greater depth.
Which Bible is Best?
Traditional English Bible translations, such as the King James Version, are revered for their majestic style, and their archaic English gives them an air of authority. Unfortunately, the English language has changed a lot since the KJV was last updated in 1769. Many KJV words and phrases, such as Lord of hosts, sabaoth, emerods and concupiscence, would not be meaningful to most people today. Worse, other KJV words, such as charity, trespass, cousin, profit, and remission, have different primary meanings today than they did in the KJV, and that could tend to mislead the reader.
For Bible study, we need a Bible that accurately conveys the meanings of the ancient Hebrew and Greek Bible manuscripts to the modern English reader. We recommend reading from a modern English translation in place of or in addition to the KJV. Here are some good choices for Bible study:
• For Protestants
o American editions: New Revised Standard Version; New International Version; New American Standard Bible; Revised Standard Version
o British editions: Revised English Bible; New Revised Standard Version, Anglicized Edition
• For Catholics
o American editions: New American Bible; New Revised Standard Version, Catholic edition
o British editions: The New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition, Anglicized Text; Revised English Bible with the Apocrypha
Bible Study Helps
The Bible was written a long time ago in a culture very different from the modern world, and it often seems confusing and contradictory. Good Bible study references are tremendously helpful for understanding the Bible as it was originally intended. The reference books below provide accurate and unbiased information.
• William Barclay, The Daily Study Bible, Westminster Press, various dates. A series of 17 books that give historical background, interpretation and commentary on each section of each book of the New Testament. The First and Second Editions were published in the mid 1950s. The Revised Editions, edited by Rev. James Martin, were published in the mid 1970s.
• Bruce Barton, et. al., Life Application New Testament Commentary, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 2001. Verse-by-verse explanation of each book of the New Testament with emphasis on application to everyday life.
• Dianne Bergant, ed., The Collegeville Bible Commentary - Old Testament, Liturgical Press, 1992. A collection of section-by-section explanations of each book of the Old Testament. Follows the Catholic arrangement of Old Testament books.
• Robert J. Karris, ed., The Collegeville Bible Commentary - New Testament, Liturgical Press, 1992. A collection of section-by-section explanations of each book of the New Testament.
• Herbert Lockyer, Sr., ed., Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1986. Commentary on people, places, things and doctrines of the Bible, arranged by topic. Includes references to relevant Bible passages.
• I. Howard Marshall, ed., New Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, Intervarsity Press, 1996. Commentary on people, places, things and doctrines of the Bible, arranged by topic. Includes references to relevant Bible passages.
• James L. Mays, ed., Harper's Bible Commentary, Harper, 1988. Section-by-section commentary, interpretation and historical perspective on each book of the Bible from a scholarly viewpoint.
• G.J. Wenham, et. al., New Bible Commentary, 21st Century Edition, Intervarsity Press, 1994. Section-by-section explanations of each book of the the Bible.
Interpreting the Bible
God has revealed himself to us in the Bible and he wants us to understand his message. In this session, we will look at how you can go about interpreting the Bible for yourself. We will introduce some ideas and methods which will help you interpret the Bible accurately and confidently. We will look at the great variety of literary styles used in the Bible and how you can decide what is figurative and what is literal.
The Bible interprets itself
The key to easier (not easy) understanding of the Bible is found within its own pages. Our tendency is to not look far enough for answers within the book when we encounter something we do not understand. A basic principle in reading the Bible more effectively lies in this simple fact:
Your questions about what the Bible teaches are answered in the Bible.
Answers are found near and far. Look in the same chapter or surrounding chapters:
Jesus’ explanation of the parable of the Sower Matthew 13:3–8 compare Matthew 13:18–23 (note they are not adjacent)
Nebuchadnezzar’s vision of the image Daniel 2:31–45
Sometimes it is helpful to look in other books of the Bible too (especially New vs Old Testament).
How long was Moses in Midian? Exodus 2:15; 3:1–4 compare Acts 7:30–31
Finding answers
DO
• Look first to the Bible for answers to questions
• Read all of the Bible to find answers to your questions
• Write down your question (it may be a while before you get an answer) DON’T
• Expect quick answers
• Look at isolated passages and draw conclusions
Why the Bible is difficult to read
If you find the Bible difficult to read, it’s probably because it is difficult to read! Once we accept this fact and realize that God has a purpose for it, then frustration turns to challenge. Millions of readers work on the Sunday Crossword puzzle. How many spend a few minutes to unlock small puzzles of Scripture? After all, God wrote the book and has told us
As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:9)
In fact, God has given us a Bible which contains some things which are clear on first reading, and some things which he has deliberately made difficult.
It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings. (Proverbs 25:2)
Why did Jesus speak in parables?
The disciples posed this question to him in Matthew 13:10. His answer reveals that it is a separation process.
“The knowledge of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.”
In other words, by speaking in parables he was sifting out the people who were not willing to search out their meaning. (If you wonder if this is fair, consider Paul’s comment in Romans 9:18–21.)
How does one gain understanding?
1. By application of time and energy.
Social status or financial position will not give anyone an advantage over another. Understanding requires a purchase ‘without money’.
Isaiah 55:1–3; Proverbs 23:23
2. Slowly!
God never revealed anything all at once and has always taught a sure slow effective method of achieving a task.
You cannot speed-read the Bible.
Hebrews 1:1; Exodus 23:29
3. With faith
We must ask God through prayer to help us understand.
Understanding is assured if we believe and are patient.
Matthew 7:7–8; James 1:5–6
Literary styles
The Bible is written using many different literary styles. God has chosen to use a great range of literary styles, probably because different styles appeal to different people and because some styles are better for conveying certain ideas than others.
Some Bible books contain examples of different literary styles within the same book. Some of the literary styles found in the Bible are given below.
Narrative
Stories of people, events and nations are narrated in many Bible books. However, the Bible is not intended to be a general history and the events recorded are highly selective.
The sections of the Bible which are narrative are usually the easiest to read. For example, the book of Esther is a wonderful story to read right through in one sitting.
Examples: Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1&2 Samuel, 1&2 Kings, 1&2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts
Laws
God gave laws to Israel via Moses when they were camped at Mt Sinai after crossing the Red Sea. Reading Israel’s laws is obviously not as easy as reading stories about people and events. However, it is worth understanding what God required of Israel. Although many of the laws are no longer applicable, they do teach us what God is like and help us understand what he requires of us.
Examples: Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Ezekiel
Genealogies
The Bible records several genealogies. These are lists of names over many generations, showing lines of descent. For example, Jesus’ genealogy shows he was a descendant of David. Most modern versions print genealogies in a list making it easy to follow the structure of the list.
Examples: 1 Chronicles 1–9, Matthew 1, Luke 3
Poetry
Hebrew poetry is found in many of the books of the Old Testament. Some books are written entirely in poetry. Hebrew poetry does not rhyme in the way some English poetry does. Instead, it is based on the structure of the text. A common form of poetry is parallel (or rhyming) thoughts.
For example, Psalm 95:1–6.
1. Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
2. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.
3. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods.
4. In his hand are the depths of the earth and the mountain peaks belong to him.
5. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.
6. Come let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.
Each of these verses consists of a couplet (two lines). In some verses, the couplet consists of lines which mean almost the same thing, but expressed in different words (e.g. v1,6). Other verses have related things expressed in the two lines (e.g. v4).
Common poetic structures in the Bible
Synonymous parallelism
Second line repeats or reinforces first line.
e.g. Psalm 95:1,6.
Antithetical parallelism
Second line contrasts the first line.
e.g. Psalm 95:4,5.
Synthetic parallelism
Second line adds to the first line.
e.g. Psalm 95:2.

Types of Psalms
Laments e.g. 3, 42, 44.
Thanksgiving e.g. 118, 124.
Hymns of praise e.g. 33, 100, 104.
Salvation history psalms e.g.78, 105, 136.
Psalms of celebration or affirmation e.g. 2, 50, 72, 89, 144.
Wisdom psalms e.g. 36, 112, 133, Proverbs 8.
Songs of trust e.g. 11, 91, 131.
Another common poetic structure is an acrostic poem. This is a poem based on the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.
For example, in Psalm 145 each of the verses consists of one couplet which begins with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet (v13 contains two couplets). Psalm 119 consists of 22 stanzas, each consisting of 8 couplets; the couplets within each stanza begin with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
It is helpful to understand something of the poetic structure as it makes a difference in how we interpret poetry. It is also important to recognise when the Bible is using poetry, because the sort of language used in poetry is often figurative. For example, Psalm 91:4 speaks of God having wings and feathers, meaning he will protect us as a bird protects her young.
Most modern versions of the Bible print poetry showing its structure in verses, stanzas, etc. This makes it easy to decide if a passage is poetic or not.
Examples: Psalms, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi.
Proverbs
The book of Proverbs is a collection of proverbs about many aspects of daily living. In general, they have not been arranged in any particular order.
Prophecy
A large part of the Bible contains prophecy. In fact, almost every book of the Bible contains some prophecy. Much of this is written as poetry although some of it is in prose. Usually, a prophecy was of immediate relevance to the people to whom it was first given. So when we read prophecy, it is important to ask “how would the original readers have understood this?” Placing prophecies in their context prevents the common mistake of looking for modern ‘fulfilments’ in prophecies which were never intended.
Many prophecies have two fulfilments. They had an initial fulfilment shortly after they were given, and they have a longer-term fulfilment. For example, Jeremiah and Ezekiel wrote at the time the Jews were in captivity in Babylon and predicted that the Jews would return to their own land of Israel. (For example, Jer 30:1–3; Ezek 20:41–42.) This was fulfilled when the Jews did return to Israel at the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. However, they were later scattered throughout the world and the prophecy was fulfilled a second time when the Jews returned to Israel to establish the modern nation of Israel in 1948. See Chapter 5 for more details of these prophecies.
The biblical prophets did not only foretell the future. The word translated “prophesy” can mean to foretell or proclaim. The prophets were God’s spokesmen and they proclaimed his message to the people as well as predicted the future.
When studying prophecy. . .
Ask the following questions:
1. How would the original readers have understood this?
2. Was it fulfilled shortly after being given?
3. What evidence is there that it is to be fulfilled in the future?
Apocalyptic prophecy
Apocalyptic prophecy is a particular style of prophecy which is highly symbolic. It often involves strange animals representing nations or organisations.
Examples: Daniel, Zechariah, Revelation
Letters
The New Testament contains a number of letters written by the apostle Paul and others. Some of the letters are to churches and other groups of people, and some are to individuals. When reading a letter, it is worth remembering that often the letter is a reply to a previous letter.
It is rather like listening to one side of a telephone conversation!
Because the letters were written to a specific group of people and often deal with specific problems, it is sometimes helpful to look at who the people were and what problems are addressed in the letter. The letters have been preserved because they have something to teach us about dealing with our difficulties.
The biblical letters follow the standard format for ancient letters. Many thousands of letters have been uncovered from the time of the New Testament and they generally follow the same structure:
1. Name of writer
2. Name of recipient
3. Greeting
4. Prayer wish or thanksgiving
5. Body of letter
6. Final greeting and farewell.
When studying letters . . .
1. Find out about the recipients
(e.g. use a Bible dictionary)
2. Read the whole letter through in one sitting
(use a modern version).
3. Make notes about
• recipients
• writer’s attitudes
• purpose of the letter
• letter’s natural divisions
Paul’s letters to churches:
Romans, 1&2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1&2 Thessalonians
Paul’s letters to individuals:
1&2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon
Other letters:
Hebrews, James, 1&2 Peter, 1,2&3 John, Jude
Literal and figurative language
How do you decide if a given part of the Bible is literal or figurative?
The Bible does contain much figurative language, but if you take it on balance, about 95% is literal and only a very small part (overall) figurative. It can be adopted as a maxim for the Bible, as for any book, that it should be taken literally unless there is a direct statement or very strong indirect evidence that it is indeed figurative.
For example, whenever Jesus described a story he told as a “parable” or said “The . . . is like . . . ”, it is clear—not literal. In other places the use of metaphor is clear. For example Isaiah 11:1 says “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse”. Now Jesse was the father of King David. Describing him as a stump is an obvious metaphor. The verse is a reference to a descendant of Jesse. The rest of the chapter makes it clear that it is referring to Jesus Christ, who was descended from King David.
The general principle is that the Bible should be understood literally unless there is a good reason not to.
Literal or Figurative?
Are the following passages symbolic or literal? How can you tell?
Exodus 14:21–22
Zechariah 13:1
Zechariah 14:2
Matthew 5:13
Revelation 20:14
Basic principles for interpreting the Bible
1. Study every passage within its literary context. Literary context includes both a text’s immediate setting (the verses around it) and its relationship to the entire book.
2. Recognise that the social, historical, and cultural environment of a biblical passage differs from that of today, and then try to understand a passage in light of those differences.
3. Translations often reflect the translator’s understanding. Therefore, when studying a passage, compare several versions to try and discover the most likely meaning of a word or phrase.
4. Interpret any single passage in light of what the author has written elsewhere.
5. Interpret the Bible as a whole. That is, interpret the Bible in light of the entire message of the Bible.
Motivation to read
Back at home, your seminar presenters will not be there to encourage you to read. The motivation to continue has to come from you yourself. It helps to have a reason to read.
The Bible teaches that death is the cessation of life and unconsciousness in the grave. The Bible also presents the hope of life and resurrection from the dead. Thus the quest for life is a truly compelling reason to read your Bible.
The Bible exposes the truth that man has an inherent leaning towards evil. This is why there is so much sadness and tragedy in the world. But God is altogether good and has a plan to bring this to an end.
God's goodness will prevail. He will intervene in human affairs by sending His Son back to the earth to establish His Kingdom. Only the Bible can tell you about this happy prospect and how to be involved in it. So, there's another compelling reason to read it.
The Bible unlocks the issues of life and death, and of good and evil. Reading it is therefore far from a pointless pastime. It's crucial to your personal future. Keep on reading, and be a part of God's plan.

REFERENCE
• United Church of God, an International Association
• Higher Praise Ministries
• All About Jesus Christ . org
• South East Queensland Christadelphians
• Internet