The Eternal Truth of Jesus as the Son of God: Defining the Relationship Through Scripture

For many Christians, the relationship between Jesus and his title as the Son of God is an essential and unshakeable pillar of faith. This article delves into the biblical references that substantiate this belief, and explores the significance of this relationship in the context of the creation, human fall, and ultimate redemption of humankind.

Establishing the Divine Identity of Jesus

Jews and Christians have long held that Jesus Christ is not just an ordinary human but the incarnation of the Son of God. The title 'Son of God' is less about selection and more about the pre-existent nature of Jesus; he is the divine Son from the very beginning. The name 'Jesus' itself is derived from 'Jehovah saves,' highlighting the salvific role of the Christ. The biblical texts are replete with references to His pre-existent nature and His interactions with humanity throughout history.

Scripts of Evidence and Biblical References

Consider the following passages from various books of the New Testament:

John 1:3: 'All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.' Colossians 1:16: '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.' Isaiah 44:24: 'Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, who formed you from the womb: “I am the Lord, who made all things for yourself—and your actual deliverance—the one who states, ‘You are my people’—and to all whom I bring home.' 1 Corinthians 15:3–4: 'For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.' John 3:16–18: 'For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.'

These passages not only establish Jesus's role as the 'Son of God' but also underscore the significance of His incarnation, death, and resurrection in the context of divine salvation.

Catechetical Underpinnings and Historical Context

The assertion that Jesus was always the Son of God, from everlasting to everlasting, is a fundamental tenet in Christian theology. This is illustrated in the narratives of the Old Testament, where various figures and events are invoked to demonstrate the pre-existence of Christ:

Genesis 16:7-12, 21:17-18, 22:11-18: These accounts show the intervention of God in various moments, often through the actions of the patriarchs, indicating His continuous presence. Exodus 3:2: 'Angelo said, “Do not come near. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.”' Here, God's presence is evident, emphasizing His interaction with His creation. Judges 2:1-4, 5:23, 6:11-24, 13:3-22: God's continued involvement in the judging of His people, speaking through them, and intervening demonstrates His ongoing relationship with His chosen. 2 Samuel 24:16: God's direct interaction with King David, validating His presence in human hearts and lives. Zechariah 1:12, 3:1, 12:8: God's continued and active role in the spiritual guidance and protection of His people.

Considering these texts, the argument that Jesus was 'chosen' to become the Son of God is a misrepresentation. Rather, the belief in Jesus as the Son of God arises from the pre-existent nature of Christ, His continuous interactions with humanity, and His ultimate purpose as the Saviour of the world.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

For Christians, the relationship between Jesus and His title as the Son of God is rooted in the eternal plan of God and the continuous interaction of God with His creation. This relationship is not a product of human choice but a manifestation of the divine will. Understanding this through biblical references provides a profound insight into the nature of Christ and the path to eternal salvation.