JESUS IS GOD
Debunking Falsehoods, Defending the Truth
Recently, a provocative banner was displayed at the entrance of the Ikoyi Central Mosque in Lagos, boldly declaring: “Jesus is not God.”
This claim is not only an outright falsehood but a deliberate misrepresentation of the cornerstone of Christian faith. It reveals either ignorance of Christian theology or an intentional attempt to incite discord.
Imagine the uproar if a church displayed a banner stating, “Muhammad is not a prophet but an Imam”—a sentiment opposing Muslim beliefs. Why then the double standard? If not for mischief, why not use the Islamic reference “Issa,” the name they ascribe to Jesus?
A Measured Christian Response
Unlike those who resort to violence or destruction to defend their beliefs, Christians stand firm in defending the truth with reason, Scripture, and love. This response exposes the banner’s error and reaffirms a fundamental truth: Jesus is God.
- The Bible Declares Jesus’ Divinity
The Bible, Christianity’s ultimate authority, explicitly teaches that Jesus is God:
John 1:1, 14: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.”
John 8:58: Jesus said, “Before Abraham was born, I am.” Using “I am,” Jesus claimed God’s divine name from Exodus 3:14.
Colossians 1:15-17: Paul describes Jesus as “the image of the invisible God” through whom “all things were created.”
Hebrews 1:8: God addresses Jesus, saying, “Your throne, O God, will last forever.”
These passages are unequivocal: Jesus is God.
- Jesus Affirmed His Divinity
Jesus’ words and actions consistently revealed His divine identity:
John 10:30: “I and the Father are one.” This claim led His opponents to accuse Him of blasphemy.
Mark 2:5-7: Jesus forgave sins, a divine act.
Matthew 28:18-20: Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.”
Moreover, Jesus accepted worship (John 20:28)—a privilege reserved for God alone.
- The Testimony of History
From the early Church to modern theologians, Christian authorities have consistently affirmed Jesus’ divinity:
Ignatius of Antioch (c. 110 AD): “Our God, Jesus Christ.”
Athanasius (4th century): “If Jesus is not truly God, He cannot save humanity.”
The Nicene Creed (325 AD): “True God from true God.”
- Theological Implications
To deny Jesus’ divinity is to dismantle Christianity:
Salvation: Only God can save sinners. If Jesus is not God, His sacrifice is meaningless (Hebrews 9:12).
Worship: Christians have worshipped Jesus for centuries. If He is not God, this would be idolatry.
Truth: If Jesus’ claims to be God are false, He was either a liar or delusional—neither aligns with His teachings or legacy.
- Islam’s Misunderstanding
Islam regards Jesus as a prophet but denies His divinity, reflecting an incomplete understanding. Even the Quran acknowledges Jesus’ virgin birth (Surah 19:20) and His miracles, pointing to His unique nature. Yet it stops short of recognizing Him as the incarnate God, a truth central to Christianity.
Conclusion: Stand Firm in Truth
The banner at Ikoyi Mosque seeks to provoke, but Christians are called to respond with grace and truth. Scripture and history affirm: Jesus is God.
To those who placed the banner, consider these words of Jesus:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
May the light of Christ guide you to the truth of His divinity and the salvation He offers.
Samuel Anayochi writes from Jos.He can be reached on anayosamuel2@gmail.com
