Who is this Jesus, in whom we are advised to place hope? Let us look at His own words as recorded in the Bible.
" I and the Father are one" John 10:30
" Whoever has seen me has seen the Father." John 14:9
"But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you." Mat. 12: 28
Jesus claimed to be God; He claimed to be one with the Father and the Holy Spirit. This three-in-one Deity is known as the Blessed Trinity. Either Jesus was the biggest liar in history, or He was telling the truth. What evidence is there to back up His claim?
During the three years of His ministry, Jesus performed many miracles, among them: healing, exorcisms, raising people from the dead, multiplying loaves and fish, walking on water, and calming a storm. Most of these wonders were performed before many witnesses.
After His resurrection, most of the Apostles, along with many of His disciples and followers willingly endured torture and martyrdom rather than deny their belief in His divinity. Even Judas Iscariot hanged himself in despair when he realized the result of his traitorous act.
Although other historical figures have faded into obscurity, Jesus' teachings, the church He founded, and the story of His life are still well-known more than 2,000 years after His death. Because of His life and death, Jesus changed the world forever. More books have been written about Him than about any other person in history.
If, then, we accept that He was telling the truth, that He is God, we have reason to hope in Jesus both today and for the future. The following excerpts from the Bible, written by witnesses of Jesus' ministry, provide immeasurable reason for hope.
Jesus: Our Hope for Today.
" We know that all things work together for good for those who love God..." Rom 8:28
"...the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:7
"And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Mat 28:13
Jesus, almighty God Himself, promises to be with His loyal followers always, working all things together for their good, while He keeps their hearts and minds in a state of untroubled peace. Are these not sufficient reasons to place our hope in Him today and every day?
Jesus: Our Hope for Tomorrow
Jesus reassured His followers about the future with the following assertions:
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life." John 3:16
" Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Luke 12:32
" Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am you may be also." John 14:1-3
These are, without doubt, reassuring promises. Those who accept Jesus as God and do their utmost to live in His friendship have every reason to hope in Him, today, tomorrow and always.
Reference:
The Holy Bible, NRSV
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