Knowing God is Knowing Jesus

Hebrews 1:3: “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.”

In the Christian faith, understanding the nature and character of God is foundational. Central to this understanding is the belief that knowing God is knowing Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that Jesus is the fullest revelation of God, and through Him, we can come to know God in a personal and transformative way. This article will explore how knowing Jesus is essential to knowing God, supported by Scriptural evidence, focusing on Jesus’ heart, mind, faithfulness to His Father’s will, and His mission to provide salvation for every person. Additionally, we will look at several names of Jesus that reveal His personality and heart, and examine New Testament stories and Old Testament prophecies that highlight His character. Finally, we will focus on Jesus’s radiant glory, His unspeakable gift, and immeasurable grace as he revealed God’s heart to men. Whether a renewed look or a first time glance, our prayer is that you consider the darling son of God today.

1. Jesus is the Exact Representation of God

The New Testament presents Jesus as the exact representation of God’s being. To see Jesus is to see God Himself.

John 14:9: “Jesus said to him, ‘Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?'”
Colossians 1:15: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”

These verses emphasize that Jesus embodies the nature and character of God, making Him the visible image of the invisible God. When we see Jesus we see God. Knowing God is Knowing Jesus.

2. Jesus Reveals the Father’s Nature

Jesus’ life and teachings reveal the nature of God the Father. Through His miraculous actions, transforming words, and tender compassion, we gain insight into God’s heart and will.

John 1:18: “No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.”
Hebrews 1:3: “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.”

Through Jesus, we see God’s attributes such as His compassion, justice, mercy, and truth vividly displayed. In Him we live and move and find our being. Jesus is the source through whom all blessings flow.

3. Jesus’ Heart, Mind, and Faithfulness

Jesus’ heart was always aligned with the will of His Father, demonstrating profound love, humility, and obedience. His mind was focused on fulfilling His Father’s mission, and He remained faithful to this purpose throughout His life.

Philippians 2:5-8: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
John 4:34: “Jesus said to them, ‘My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.'”

These passages illustrate Jesus’ unwavering commitment and obedience to God’s will, even to the point of sacrificing His life. What profound conviction this may cause as we consider our true commitment to our Father. Are we truly willing to live or die with this level of devotion? The Lord never asks for much, he only ask for all. Deny yourself, take up death, and chase me. You will find me when you seek with all your heart.

4. Jesus as the Mediator Between God and Humanity

Jesus acts as the mediator between God and humanity, bridging the gap caused by sin and making it possible for us to have a relationship with God. He stands in the gap. He is the bridge across the Great Gulf fixed between us and God.

1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
John 14:6: “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”

These passages highlight that Jesus is the exclusive path to a relationship with God, underscoring His unique role in divine mediation.

5. Jesus’ Sacrifice Demonstrates God’s Love

The sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love and commitment to humanity. The most vivid illustration of love ever exhibited. Nothing but His blood could wash away our sin.

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 5:8: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we see the depth of God’s love and His desire for reconciliation with humanity. We could spend eternity finding him out, but I present Him this way today;

Jesus: The Glory of God, the Gift of God, and the Grace of God

The Glory of God

Jesus Christ is the perfect manifestation of God’s glory. In His life, death, and resurrection, He reveals the divine nature and splendor of God.

John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
Hebrews 1:3: “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.”

Verses that speak to the glory of Christ.

John 1:14:
- “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
- John 1:14
Revelation 1:13-16:
- “And in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength.”
- Revelation 1:13-16
Philippians 2:9-11:
- “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
- Philippians 2:9-11
Colossians 1:15-20:
- “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.”
- Colossians 1:15-20

These verses beautifully capture the glory and majesty of Christ.

The Biblical Concept of Glory

In biblical terms, “glory” (Hebrew: kavod; Greek: doxa) carries a profound and multifaceted meaning, often referring to the manifestation of God’s presence, His supreme honor, and the intrinsic worth and majesty that belong to Him alone.

Hebrew – Kavod:
- In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word kavod primarily denotes weight or heaviness, signifying something of substantial importance and value. It reflects God’s splendor, majesty, and the visible revelation of His power and presence.
- For example, in Exodus 24:16-17, the glory of the Lord appears as a consuming fire on Mount Sinai: “Now the glory of the Lord rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. And on the seventh day He called to Moses out of the midst of the cloud. The sight of the glory of the Lord was like a consuming fire on the top of the mountain in the eyes of the children of Israel.”
Greek – Doxa:
- In the New Testament, the Greek word doxa encompasses brightness, radiance, and the honor and praise due to God. It highlights the divine presence and the honor Jesus receives through His work of salvation.
- For instance, in John 1:14, the glory of Jesus is described: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Core Aspects of Glory:

Manifestation of Divine Presence:
- God’s glory is often associated with His tangible presence. The Shekinah glory in the Old Testament and the transfiguration of Jesus in the New Testament exemplify this.
- Example: Matthew 17:1-2 – “Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light.”
Supreme Honor and Majesty:
- Glory reflects the honor and majesty that belong to God, showcasing His sovereignty, power, and holiness.
- Example: Psalm 24:7-8 – “Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, The Lord mighty in battle.”
Revelation of Jesus Christ:
- The glory of Christ reveals His divine nature and redemptive work, emphasizing His unique role in God’s plan of salvation.
- Example: Hebrews 1:3 – “Who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
Radiance and Light:
- Glory is often depicted as light, symbolizing purity, truth, and the illuminating presence of God.
- Example: Revelation 21:23 – “The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light.”

In summary, the biblical concept of glory encapsulates the overwhelming presence, honor, and majesty of God, which are manifested through His actions, His creation, and supremely in the person of Jesus Christ. Glory underscores the inherent worth and radiance of God, inviting humanity to recognize, worship, and reflect His divine light and truth.

Through His miraculous works, His authoritative teaching, and His redemptive sacrifice, Jesus displays the glory of God. His transfiguration, as recorded in Matthew 17:2, is a moment where His divine glory shines visibly, affirming His identity as the Son of God.

In what ways has Jesus revealed His glory in your life?

The Gift of God

Jesus is the ultimate gift from God to humanity, providing the way to eternal life through His sacrifice.

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The incarnation of Jesus, His willingness to live among us, and ultimately, His sacrificial death on the cross, exemplify the greatest gift humanity has ever received. His resurrection signifies the completion of this divine gift, offering new life to all who believe in Him.

Verses that depict Christ as a gift.

John 3:16:
- “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
- John 3:16
Romans 6:23:
- “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
- Romans 6:23
Ephesians 2:8:
- “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God.”
- Ephesians 2:8
2 Corinthians 9:15:
- “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”
- 2 Corinthians 9:15
Romans 5:15:
- “But the free gift is not like the offense. For if by the one man’s offense many died, much more the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abounded to many.”
- Romans 5:15

These verses highlight the gift of Christ and the salvation, grace, and eternal life offered through Him.

The Biblical Concept of Gift

In biblical terms, the word “gift” (Greek: dōrea or charisma) as it relates to Jesus signifies an extraordinary act of divine grace and benevolence from God to humanity. This gift is the ultimate expression of God’s love, providing salvation, eternal life, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It is undeserved, freely given, and received by faith.

Core Aspects of Jesus as the Gift:

Ultimate Expression of God’s Love:
- Jesus Christ is the embodiment of God’s love for humanity, given to save the world from sin and reconcile us to God.
- Example: John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
Salvation and Eternal Life:
- Through Jesus, we receive the gift of salvation, rescuing us from the penalty of sin and granting us eternal life with God.
- Example: Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23
Grace and Redemption:
- Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross is a gift of grace, providing redemption and forgiveness of sins.
- Example: Ephesians 1:7 – “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” Ephesians 1:7
Indwelling of the Holy Spirit:
- Through Jesus, believers receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who empowers, guides, and transforms their lives.
- Example: Acts 2:38 – “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'” Acts 2:38
Peace and Joy:
- Jesus provides peace and joy as part of the abundant life that He offers to those who believe in Him.
- Example: John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27

The concept of “gift” in relation to Jesus Christ encompasses God’s profound love, grace, and generosity towards humanity. Jesus is the ultimate gift, providing salvation, eternal life, redemption, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and true peace and joy. This gift is freely given by God, not based on human merit, but received through faith in Jesus Christ. Understanding Jesus as the gift emphasizes the transformative power and eternal significance of God’s gracious provision for mankind.

In what ways has the gift of Jesus changed your life?

The Grace of God

Jesus embodies the grace of God, offering unmerited favor to a fallen humanity. His life and teachings illustrate God’s grace in action.

Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
Titus 2:11: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people.”

Verses that highlight the grace of Jesus

John 1:16-17:
- “And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”
- John 1:16-17
2 Corinthians 8:9:
- “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”
- 2 Corinthians 8:9
Ephesians 1:7:
- “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.”
- Ephesians 1:7
Titus 2:11:
- “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.”
- Titus 2:11
2 Timothy 1:9:
- “Who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.”
- 2 Timothy 1:9

These verses emphasize the grace of Jesus Christ, demonstrating His selfless love, the forgiveness of sins, and the salvation offered through His sacrificial act.

Jesus’ interactions with individuals like the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) and Zacchaeus the tax collector (Luke 19:1-10) reveal His gracious nature. He extends forgiveness, restoration, and new beginnings to those who are marginalized and sinful, demonstrating the boundless grace of God.

The Biblical Concept of Grace

In biblical terms, “grace” (Greek: charis) refers to the unmerited favor and love of God toward humanity, especially as manifested in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Grace is the foundation of salvation and the essence of the gospel, highlighting God’s benevolence, mercy, and kindness.

Core Aspects of Grace in Relation to Jesus:

Unmerited Favor:
- Grace is God’s gift to humanity, given without any merit or deserving on our part. It is through Jesus that we receive this favor.
- Example: Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Source of Salvation:
- The grace of Jesus is central to the Christian message of salvation, offering forgiveness and eternal life to all who believe.
- Example: Titus 2:11 – “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Titus 2:11
Manifested in Jesus’ Sacrifice:
- Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross is the ultimate act of grace, providing redemption from sin.
- Example: Romans 3:24 – “Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Romans 3:24
Empowering Believers:
- Grace not only saves but also empowers believers to live righteous lives and grow in their faith.
- Example: 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Ongoing Provision:
- Grace is continually given to believers, enabling them to stand firm in their faith and face life’s challenges.
- Example: John 1:16-17 – “And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” John 1:16-17

The concept of “grace” in relation to Jesus Christ emphasizes the unearned and abundant favor that God extends to humanity. This grace is vividly displayed through Jesus’ life, atoning death, and resurrection, which offer salvation, empowerment, and continual support to believers. Grace is central to the Christian faith, underscoring God’s loving and merciful nature and His desire to redeem and sustain His people. Understanding grace as it pertains to Jesus highlights the transformative and sustaining power of God’s love and favor.

How has grace became an active part of your daily life?

6. Jesus as the Source of Eternal Life

Knowing Jesus is not just about intellectual understanding; it is about entering into a relationship that brings eternal life.

John 17:3: “And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
1 John 5:20: “And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.”

These verses illustrate that eternal life is found in knowing Jesus, who reveals the true nature of God.

7. Names of Jesus Revealing His Personality and Heart

The various names and titles of Jesus in the Bible reveal His character, personality, and heart towards humanity.

Emmanuel (God with Us): Matthew 1:23: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel (which means, God with us).” This name reveals God’s presence with us through Jesus.
Good Shepherd: John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This name shows Jesus’ care, protection, and sacrificial love.
Prince of Peace: Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This title highlights Jesus’ role in bringing peace and reconciliation.
Lamb of God: John 1:29: “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'” This title emphasizes Jesus’ role in sacrifice and atonement.
Light of the World: John 8:12: “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'” This name signifies Jesus’ guidance and truth.

8. New Testament Stories Revealing Jesus’ Character

His Kindness: John 4:1-42: Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well, offering her living water and addressing her spiritual needs with compassion and understanding.
His Truthfulness: John 18:37: Jesus stands before Pilate and declares, “For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth.”
His Compassion: Matthew 14:13-21: Jesus feeds the five thousand, showing deep compassion for the physical hunger of the people.
His Strength: John 2:13-16: Jesus cleanses the temple, displaying righteous anger and strength in upholding the sanctity of His Father’s house.
His Humility: John 13:1-17: Jesus washes His disciples’ feet, exemplifying servant leadership and humility.
His Commitment: Luke 22:42: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prays, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”

9. Old Testament Prophecies Revealing Jesus’ Nature

Born of a Virgin: Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
Suffering Servant: Isaiah 53:3-5: “He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief… But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
Ruler from Bethlehem: Micah 5:2: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
Eternal Kingdom: Daniel 7:13-14: “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.”

Conclusion

Knowing God is intrinsically linked to knowing Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, we see the exact representation of God, understand the nature of the Father, experience mediation between God and humanity, witness the ultimate demonstration of God’s love, and find the source of eternal life. Jesus’ heart, mind, and faithfulness to His Father’s will reveal His personality, perspective, power, and performance on earth to provide salvation for every person. As we grow in our knowledge of Jesus, we deepen our understanding of and relationship with God Himself.