How to Understand Jesus in World Religions: A Biblical Guide
While many world religions acknowledge Jesus (often as a prophet named Isa in Islam or a historical figure in Judaism), the Bible presents the exclusive truth. Scripture reveals Jesus Christ as the one true Son of God, our Lord and Savior, whose death and resurrection offer the only path to salvation (John 14:6).
Jesus Christ is a central figure in many world religions, but these diverse views often obscure His true identity. For instance, Islam reveres Him as the prophet Isa Jesus in the Quran, while Judaism and other faiths hold different perspectives. This wide spectrum of beliefs, including concepts like a muslim jesus or jesus in arabic, can lead to confusion and raises an important question: Who is Jesus, really?
At Just Jesus Time, our foundation is the infallible Word of God. This article is not a neutral exploration of different religious claims; it is a compassionate yet firm guide to the unchanging, biblical truth about Jesus Christ. We affirm Him as the divine Son of God, Lord, and Savior, whose sacrificial death and glorious resurrection are the only path to salvation and eternal life. Our goal is to equip you, whether a new believer or a mature Christian, with clear, scriptural answers that lovingly correct misconceptions and reinforce the truth about Jesus revealed in the Holy Bible.
To navigate the complex landscape of how Jesus is viewed in other religions, we must have a firm starting point. That foundation is the Bible. We will build our understanding on the clear truth of God’s Word, which reveals Jesus as the only way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
What is the Biblical Truth About Jesus Christ?
Welcome to a deeper exploration of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity. At Just Jesus Time, we believe that understanding Jesus begins and ends with the Bible. As God’s inspired Word, it reveals His Son with perfect truth. Here, we explore the foundational biblical truths about who Jesus is and what He means for humanity.
Jesus as the Son of God (John 1:14)
From the very beginning, Scripture declares that Jesus Christ is more than a man. He is the eternal Son of God, divine by nature. This is not just a title; it defines His core identity. Indeed, He is fully God and fully man.
- Divine Nature: The Bible teaches that Jesus existed with God before creation. As John 1:1 states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This “Word” is Jesus Christ.
- Incarnation: The truth of the incarnation is revealed in John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” In the person of Jesus, God Himself entered human history.
- Unique Relationship: Jesus’s title, “Son of God,” points to His unique and intimate relationship with the Father. He is not simply a prophet or a good teacher, but God in the flesh—the perfect representation of God’s character and will (Colossians 1:15).
Therefore, we believe Jesus is not a myth or merely a historical figure. He is the living God, come in the flesh.
Jesus as the Only Way to Salvation (Acts 4:12)
The Bible is clear: there is only one path to eternal life and reconciliation with God, and that path is Jesus Christ. He alone offers salvation, a free gift made possible by His sacrifice.
- Exclusive Claim: Acts 4:12 powerfully declares this truth: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” This statement is not meant to be divisive, but to lovingly reveal God’s one true plan for salvation.
- His Atoning Work: Jesus secured our salvation through His perfect life, sacrificial death on the cross, and glorious resurrection. By bearing the penalty for our sins, He conquered death and offered us new life (Romans 5:8).
- Grace Through Faith: We receive this salvation not by our own works but by God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is a free gift for all who believe.
Consequently, any belief system that suggests other ways to God or denies Jesus’s work on the cross contradicts biblical truth. Jesus’s claims are exclusive because His sacrifice is unique and complete.
The Authority of Scripture in Understanding Jesus
To truly understand Jesus, we must turn to the inspired and authoritative Word of God: the Bible. It is the only reliable source for His identity, mission, and teachings, and it alone reveals God’s plan of salvation.
- God-Breathed Truth: The Apostle Paul confirmed the Bible’s divine origin in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, writing, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
- Prophetic Certainty: The prophets spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, not from their own will (2 Peter 1:20-21). This means the Bible is not just human opinion but God’s unchanging message to humanity.
- Guiding Our Faith: Any view of Jesus that contradicts the Bible’s clear teachings is inaccurate. Scripture provides the standard for telling truth from error, revealing the real Jesus, not a distorted version.
In conclusion, the Bible is our infallible guide. It clearly presents Jesus Christ as the eternal Son of God and our exclusive Savior who died for our sins and rose again. We trust in its every word to reveal Him fully and truthfully.
What does Islam say about Jesus?
Who is Isa ibn Maryam in the Quran?
In Islam, Jesus is known as Isa ibn Maryam, meaning “Jesus, son of Mary,” and he is held in high regard. Muslims believe he was a significant prophet of God sent to guide humanity. The Quran also describes his miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary without a human father [1].
The Quran states that Isa performed many miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead. Despite these abilities, Islam views Isa as a human prophet and messenger, similar to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad. He is not considered divine or the Son of God.
Muslims believe Isa preached the same core message as all other prophets: the absolute oneness of God (Allah). They also anticipate his return to Earth before the Day of Judgment, where he will defeat false messiahs and establish justice.
What is the difference between Jesus in Islam and Jesus in Christianity?
Although both faiths revere Jesus, their understanding of His identity and mission is profoundly different. These are not minor theological points; they are foundational to the core beliefs of each religion. Therefore, it is crucial to understand these distinctions.
The table below highlights the key differences between the Christian and Islamic perspectives on Jesus:
| Aspect | Christian Belief | Islamic Belief |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Divine Son of God, second person of the Trinity. | A human prophet of God (Allah). |
| Divinity | Jesus is fully God and fully man (John 1:1, John 10:30). | God is one and has no partners; Jesus is not divine. |
| Son of God | Jesus is the literal Son of God, unique in His relationship with the Father (John 3:16). | God has no son; calling Jesus the Son of God is considered blasphemous. |
| Crucifixion | Jesus truly died on the cross to atone for humanity’s sins (1 Peter 2:24). | Jesus was not crucified; someone else was made to look like Him [2]. |
| Resurrection | Jesus bodily rose from the dead, conquering sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). | Jesus was raised to heaven by God without dying on a cross. |
| Purpose | To provide salvation through His sacrifice and resurrection (Romans 5:8). | To deliver God’s message as a prophet, calling people to worship God alone. |
| Return | He will return as King and Judge (Revelation 19:11-16). | He will return to defeat the Antichrist and establish justice under Islamic law. |
These distinctions are fundamental, shaping the entire theological framework of each faith.
Does the Quran deny the crucifixion and divinity of Jesus?
Yes, the Quran explicitly denies both the crucifixion and divinity of Jesus Christ, which is a central point of disagreement between Christianity and Islam. For example, Sura 4:157-158 states that Jesus was not crucified, but rather “only a likeness of that was shown to them.” According to this belief, God saved Isa by raising him to heaven and placing a substitute on the cross.
Furthermore, the Quran strongly rejects the concept of Jesus being divine or the Son of God, condemning the idea of God having a son as polytheism (shirk). Islam’s core principle is the absolute oneness of God (Tawhid), a teaching that directly contradicts the Christian doctrine of the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus. For Christians, Jesus is God incarnate (John 1:14) and “God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
A Christian Response: Why the Biblical Jesus is Unique and Divine
As Christians, we stand firm on the unchanging truth of God’s Word, which presents Jesus Christ as both fully God and fully man. This foundational truth is the cornerstone of our faith. He is not merely a prophet but the Divine Son of God, uniquely qualified to save humanity.
Consider these vital truths about the Biblical Jesus:
- His Divinity: Jesus declared, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30). The Apostle John affirms, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). This Word became flesh in Jesus Christ.
- His Crucifixion and Atonement: The Scriptures are unequivocal about Jesus’s death on the cross. He “bore our sins in his body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24). His sacrifice was a perfect and complete atonement for the sins of the world (Romans 5:8).
- His Bodily Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is a historical fact and the bedrock of Christian hope. “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile” (1 Corinthians 15:17). His resurrection proves His victory over sin and death.
- His Exclusive Claim: Jesus proclaimed, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This profound statement emphasizes His unique role as the only path to salvation.
The Biblical Jesus is unique—not just a moral example, but our Redeemer. His life, death, and resurrection offer true hope and eternal life to all who believe. We invite you to embrace the Jesus of the Bible: our Lord and Savior (Acts 4:12).
Where is Jesus according to the Talmud?
Where is Jesus according to the Talmud?
Understanding the Talmud’s Historical Portrayal of Jesus
The Talmud, a central text of Rabbinic Judaism, compiles Jewish law, ethics, philosophy, customs, and history. Within its pages, scholars have identified references to a figure believed to be Jesus.
These references are rarely positive and often portray Jesus in a polemical light. For example, some passages suggest Jesus practiced sorcery and led Israel astray [3], describing his execution as a just punishment.
It is crucial to understand the context for these writings. They reflect the historical tensions between early Jewish communities and the emerging Christian movement. As a result, the Talmudic perspective is vastly different from the Gospels and naturally rejects Jesus’ claims to divinity and Messiahship.
However, these critical mentions inadvertently support Jesus’ historical existence. They demonstrate that His life and impact were undeniable, even to those who opposed His teachings. For Christians, the Bible remains the unwavering authority for understanding Jesus Christ, the eternal Word of God made flesh (John 1:1-5).
Why Judaism Does Not Accept Jesus as the Messiah
Traditional Judaism has specific expectations for the Messiah, rooted in Old Testament prophecies. However, the Jewish interpretation of these prophecies often differs significantly from Christian understanding.
Key reasons for this rejection include:
- Different Expectations of the Messiah: Jewish tradition envisions a Messiah who is a human leader. This leader would rebuild the Temple, gather all Jews back to Israel, and usher in a global era of peace. Jesus, in His first coming, did not fulfill these political or national expectations.
- Rejection of Divinity: The concept of God becoming man, or the Messiah being divine, is contrary to traditional Jewish monotheism. The idea of Jesus being the Son of God is seen as a deviation from the oneness of God (Deuteronomy 6:4).
- Lack of Global Peace: The Messianic era is expected to bring universal peace and an end to all wars (Isaiah 2:4). Since this has not yet happened, many Jews believe the Messiah has not yet come.
- Differing Interpretation of Prophecy: While both Christians and Jews look to the Old Testament, their understanding of Messianic prophecies varies. For instance, the “suffering servant” passages in Isaiah 53 are often interpreted differently within Judaism. Many do not see these passages as referring to the Messiah, but rather to the nation of Israel as a whole.
From a Christian perspective, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the spiritual and redemptive aspects of these prophecies. He came not as a political ruler, but as a Savior (Matthew 1:21).
A Christian Response: Messianic Prophecies Fulfilled by Jesus Christ (Isaiah 53)
The Christian faith asserts that Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah who fulfilled the Messianic prophecies of the Old Testament. While interpretations can differ, these prophecies paint a clear picture of His divine mission.
Perhaps the most powerful and direct prophecy of Jesus’ atoning work is found in Isaiah 53. This chapter describes a “suffering servant” who would:
- Be Despised and Rejected: “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain” (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus endured ultimate rejection and suffering.
- Bear Our Sins: “Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering… he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:4-5). This speaks directly to Jesus’ crucifixion.
- Die an Atoning Death: “He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth” (Isaiah 53:9). Jesus died a criminal’s death yet was buried in a rich man’s tomb.
- Make Many Righteous: “After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities” (Isaiah 53:11). Jesus’ sacrifice offers salvation to all who believe.
Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection perfectly align with these divine predictions. He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His resurrection proved His triumph over sin and death, establishing His eternal kingdom, not a temporary earthly one.
Furthermore, other prophecies confirmed Jesus’ identity:
- Born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14).
- Born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2).
- Performing miracles (Isaiah 35:5-6).
- His triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Zechariah 9:9).
The New Testament provides the divine interpretation of these prophecies, confirming their fulfillment in Jesus (Luke 24:27, Acts 3:18). Therefore, Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the true Messiah, the Son of God, and the only path to salvation (Acts 4:12). His finished work on the cross and His glorious resurrection are the bedrock of the Christian faith, fulfilling God’s perfect plan for humanity.
How Should Christians View Other Religious Figures like Buddha?
Contrasting the Core Teachings of Jesus and Buddha
As Christians, while we approach other religious figures with respect, we hold an unwavering clarity about the unique person and work of Jesus Christ. When considering figures like Buddha, it is essential to understand the fundamental differences in their core teachings and identities. Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, was a man who lived centuries before Christ. He sought to understand human suffering and offered a path to enlightenment based on self-effort and the cessation of desire.
In contrast, Jesus Christ is not merely a man who sought enlightenment; He is the Son of God, divine and eternal (John 1:1, John 1:14). His message centers on God’s love, grace, and redemption, which are not based on human effort. Instead, He offers salvation as a gift received through faith in His atoning sacrifice, not earned through self-improvement to overcome suffering.
Key distinctions include:
- Nature of Deity: Jesus is God incarnate, the Second Person of the Trinity (Colossians 2:9). Buddha, however, never claimed to be divine and is not worshipped as God within Buddhism. He taught a path for followers to realize the nature of reality for themselves.
- The Core Problem and Solution: In Buddhism, the core problem is suffering (dukkha), caused by attachment and craving. The proposed solution is the Eightfold Path, leading to nirvana—a state free from suffering and self. For Christians, the core problem is sin, which separates humanity from a holy God (Romans 3:23). The solution is God’s grace through Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection offer forgiveness and eternal life (Romans 6:23).
- Path to Salvation/Enlightenment: Buddha’s path is one of rigorous self-discipline, meditation, and wisdom—a journey of human effort. In contrast, Jesus declares Himself to be the exclusive path to God (John 14:6). Salvation is not earned by works but is a gift received by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
The Exclusive Claims of Christ vs. Paths of Enlightenment
A profound difference lies in the nature of their claims. Buddha presented a philosophy and a method for human self-realization, encouraging followers to test his teachings for themselves. Consequently, his path is often viewed as one of many possible routes to understanding reality or achieving spiritual peace.
Jesus Christ, however, made exclusive and absolute claims that set Him apart entirely. He did not offer one path among many; He declared Himself to be the only path to God. Consider these powerful declarations from our Lord:
- “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6). This unambiguous statement asserts that Jesus is the sole mediator between God and humanity.
- “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25). While Buddha taught about the cycle of rebirth (samsara), Jesus offers a singular, eternal life in Him by conquering death itself.
- “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12). Buddha offered insights into suffering; Jesus, in contrast, offers the very light of God that dispels all spiritual darkness.
These are not mere suggestions or philosophies; they are divine pronouncements from the Son of God. They underline that Christ’s claims are utterly unique and cannot be harmonized with paths that rely on self-effort or reject His deity and atoning work.
Why Jesus is Infinitely More Than a Great Moral Teacher
People sometimes call Jesus a great moral teacher, comparing Him to Buddha or other revered sages. While His teachings, such as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), are morally profound, this label falls infinitely short. To reduce Jesus to a moral guide is to miss the core of His identity and mission.
Jesus is infinitely more: He is the divine Son of God who came to earth to redeem humanity. His teachings are therefore inseparable from both His divine identity and His redemptive work. Consider these vital truths:
- His Divinity: Unlike Buddha, who was a human being, Jesus is God (John 1:1, Philippians 2:5-8). This is a critical distinction because, as God, Jesus has the authority and power to forgive sins—something no mere human teacher can do (Mark 2:5-10).
- His Atoning Sacrifice: Jesus did not just teach morality; He lived a perfect life and then offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world (1 Peter 2:24, Isaiah 53:5). His death on the cross atoned for our wrongdoing in a way no other religious figure has ever claimed to do.
- His Bodily Resurrection: Unlike any other religious figure, Jesus conquered death by physically rising from the grave. His resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith, proving His deity and His victory over sin and death, which secures our hope of eternal life (Romans 1:4, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
- His Power to Transform: A moral teacher can offer inspiration, but only Jesus Christ can truly transform a human heart. Through the Holy Spirit, He grants new life to believers (2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 2:20). He doesn’t just show the way; He is the way and provides the power to walk in it.
Therefore, while we can acknowledge the historical existence of figures like Buddha, our focus as Christians remains steadfastly on Jesus Christ. He is not simply a sage, a prophet, or an example. He is Lord, Savior, and the only path to eternal life with God.
What is the Unchanging Truth Amidst Different Beliefs?
Three Foundational Truths About Jesus Christ
Many voices in our world offer differing views of Jesus. Some see Him as a prophet, while others consider Him a great moral teacher. But the Bible reveals an unchanging and divine reality.
Christian faith stands on three foundational truths about Jesus Christ. These truths are not open to reinterpretation; they are the bedrock of our belief and salvation.
- His Deity: Jesus is God Incarnate. The Bible proclaims that Jesus is God Himself, who took on human flesh. He is not simply a creation or a prophet; He existed before all things and possesses all divine authority. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1). The apostle John continues, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14). This divine nature sets Jesus apart from every other religious figure, including the prophet Isa in Islam or teachers mentioned in the Talmud.
- His Atoning Death: The Sacrifice for Our Sins. Jesus willingly laid down His life on the cross. His death was neither a defeat nor an illusion, but a purposeful, atoning sacrifice for the sins of all humanity. Through this act, He bore the penalty we deserved. “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” (1 Peter 3:18). This ultimate act of love offers forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Without His death, there is no salvation.
- His Bodily Resurrection: Victory Over Death. Three days after His crucifixion, Jesus physically rose from the dead. This was a bodily resurrection, not just a spiritual one. His tomb was empty, and He appeared to many witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). The resurrection proves His deity and His power over both sin and death. It is also our guarantee of future resurrection and eternal life. “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:17). This glorious event is the ultimate confirmation of all His claims.
These truths stand firm against all competing narratives, presenting Jesus as the one, true, living Savior.
Your Invitation to Know the Real Jesus (John 3:16)
The core message of the Gospel remains constant: it is a loving invitation to everyone. No matter your background or previous beliefs, Jesus offers new life.
You may have heard different accounts of Jesus, perhaps encountering the portrayal of the prophet Isa in Islam or descriptions from other texts. Yet, the Jesus of the Bible desires a personal relationship with you.
His love is boundless, His offer of salvation is genuine, and He welcomes all who come to Him in faith. This unchanging truth is summarized beautifully in 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.”
Knowing the real Jesus means accepting Him as your Lord and Savior, believing in His divine nature, trusting in His atoning death for your sins, and celebrating His victorious resurrection.
If you are ready to embrace this unchanging truth, consider these simple steps:
- Acknowledge Your Need: Recognize that you are a sinner in need of God’s forgiveness. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).
- Believe in Jesus: Trust that Jesus Christ is God’s Son. Believe He died for your sins and rose again. “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.” (Acts 16:31).
- Repent of Your Sins: Turn away from your old ways and commit to following Christ. “Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.” (Acts 3:19).
- Confess Him as Lord: Declare Jesus as the Lord of your life. “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9).
This is the path to eternal life and the joy of knowing the Savior. Embrace the real Jesus today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What religions believe in Jesus as the Son of God?
The belief in Jesus as the divine Son of God is a central and foundational teaching of Christianity. This core truth is shared by numerous denominations around the world.
- Protestant Denominations: Groups like Lutherans, Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians all affirm Jesus’s full deity. Similarly, Pentecostals and other non-denominational churches believe He is fully God and fully man. [source: Pew Research Center on Religion & Public Life: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/ ]
- Catholicism: The Roman Catholic Church teaches that Jesus is the Second Person of the Holy Trinity, co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and the Holy Spirit.
- Eastern Orthodoxy: Orthodox Christians also firmly believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ, teaching that He is God incarnate and our Savior.
All of these Christian traditions uphold the biblical truth of Jesus’s unique divine sonship. Scripture describes Him as the express image of the Father (Hebrews 1:3). The Apostle Peter declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16), and the Apostle John wrote, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1, 1:14). For believers, this truth is foundational and non-negotiable.
While other religions acknowledge Jesus, they do so in different ways. For instance, Islam reveres Isa (Jesus) as a prophet but strongly rejects the concept of His divinity. Similarly, Judaism views Jesus as a historical figure but does not accept Him as the promised Messiah or the Son of God. In this way, the Christian faith is unique in proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord, God, and the only Savior of the world.
What is the difference between Jesus in Islam and Jesus in Christianity?
While Jesus is a central figure in both Christianity and Islam, the understanding of who He is differs fundamentally between the two faiths. These distinctions are not minor; they affect the core beliefs of each religion.
Christians believe Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God, our Lord and Savior, and the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. The Bible reveals Him as fully God and fully man who lived a sinless life. He willingly died on the cross for our sins and rose bodily from the dead on the third day, conquering sin and death. Through Him, eternal life is offered to all who believe (John 3:16). He is the “way, the truth, and the life,” and no one comes to the Father except through Him (John 14:6).
Conversely, Islam teaches that Jesus (known as Isa ibn Maryam) is a highly revered prophet of God. He was born of the Virgin Mary and performed miracles by God’s permission. The Quran honors him as a significant messenger, but Islamic teachings firmly reject His divinity. Because Muslims believe Allah has no son, Jesus cannot be God or the Son of God. Islam also denies His crucifixion and resurrection, suggesting that someone else was substituted for Him on the cross [source: The Quran, Surah An-Nisa 4:157-158 and Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:1-4]. Therefore, in Islam, Jesus is a human messenger who prepared the way for Muhammad, not a divine savior.
Here is a direct comparison of these distinct views:
| Aspect | Christian View of Jesus | Islamic View of Isa |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Divine Son of God, part of the Trinity, fully God and fully man (John 1:1, 1:14). | A revered prophet, messenger of Allah, born of the Virgin Mary (Quran 19:19-20). |
| Divinity | Yes, He is God incarnate, worshipped as God (Philippians 2:6-7). | No, the concept of God having a son is considered blasphemous (Quran 112:1-4). |
| Crucifixion | Died on the cross as an atonement for sins (1 Corinthians 15:3). This is foundational. | Not crucified; God raised Him to Himself, someone else was substituted (Quran 4:157). |
| Resurrection | Bodily rose from the dead, defeating sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:4). | Did not die, but was raised to God; will return before the Day of Judgment. |
| Salvation | The only way to salvation and eternal life through faith in Him (Acts 4:12). | A prophet who taught submission to God; salvation is through obedience to Allah. |
The Bible unequivocally teaches Jesus’s unique identity as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His atoning death and bodily resurrection are presented as historical facts essential for salvation. The well-known verse John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” These are not merely different beliefs; they are exclusive claims. For Christians, Jesus is Lord and Savior—the one and only way to God.
What does Torah say about Jesus?
The Torah, which consists of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy), forms the foundation of Jewish law and tradition. Because the Torah was written many centuries before Jesus’s earthly ministry, it does not mention Him by name.
However, from a Christian perspective, the Torah and the rest of the Old Testament are crucial for understanding Jesus. Christians believe these texts contain many prophecies and foreshadowing events, known as “types,” that point to the coming Messiah. In this view, Jesus perfectly fulfilled these ancient predictions, which reveal God’s eternal plan of salvation through His Son.
Here are a few key examples:
- The Seed of the Woman: In Genesis 3:15, God promises that a descendant of Eve will crush the serpent’s head. Christians see this as the first prophecy of Christ, who defeats Satan through His sacrifice.
- The Passover Lamb: Exodus describes how the blood of a Passover lamb saved Israel from death. This points to Jesus, the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29) whose blood brings eternal redemption.
- The Covenant with Abraham: God promised Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his “seed” (Genesis 12:3). The New Testament explains that this singular “seed” refers to Christ (Galatians 3:16).
- The Sacrificial System: The detailed sacrificial laws in Leviticus showed the ongoing need for atonement for sin. These rituals pointed forward to Jesus’s perfect, once-for-all sacrifice that made all others obsolete (Hebrews 9:11-14).
Therefore, while the Torah does not name Jesus directly, Christians believe it lays the groundwork for His arrival by establishing humanity’s need for a Redeemer. Later prophets expanded on these themes, with passages like Isaiah 53 describing a suffering servant and Micah 5:2 predicting the Messiah’s birthplace. From a Christian standpoint, these are seen as clear precursors to Jesus Christ.
It is also important to distinguish the Torah from later Jewish tradition, such as the Talmud (a collection of rabbinic discussions). Developed much later, the Talmud offers a different perspective, generally rejecting Jesus’s claims to divinity and messiahship. While some sections present a negative historical portrayal [source: The Jewish Virtual Library on Jesus: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jesus-in-the-talmud ], these accounts are often polemical and do not originate from the Torah itself.
In summary, for Christians, the Torah is a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness that foreshadows Jesus Christ in remarkable ways. They believe He is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises—the Messiah, Lord, and Savior.
Do Muslims believe Jesus will return?
Yes, the belief that Isa (Jesus) will return to earth is a significant part of Islamic eschatology (end-times teaching). However, the purpose and nature of His return in Islamic belief are vastly different from the Christian understanding.
In Christian teaching, Jesus will return in power and glory as the triumphant King and Judge. He will gather His Church, defeat all evil, and establish His eternal kingdom (Acts 1:11, Revelation 19:11-16). He returns as the same divine Lord of all creation who ascended into heaven.
Similarly, in Islam, the return of Isa is a major sign of the end times. He is expected to descend to earth before the Day of Judgment, but His role differs fundamentally from the biblical account. According to Islamic tradition (Hadith), Isa will return to defeat the Dajjal (the Antichrist figure in Islam), break the cross, kill pigs, and abolish the jizya (a tax on non-Muslims). He will then rule according to Islamic law before eventually dying and being buried in Medina. [source: See various Hadith collections, e.g., Sahih al-Bukhari Vol. 3, Book 34, Hadith 425: https://sunnah.com/bukhari/34/425 and other relevant traditions]
Here are key differences in beliefs about Jesus’ return:
- Identity of the Returning Figure: Christians believe the returning Jesus is the divine Son of God. Muslims believe Isa returns as a prophet of Allah, not as a divine being.
- Purpose of Return: For Christians, Jesus returns as King and Judge to complete His redemptive work and establish His eternal reign. For Muslims, Isa returns to restore Islamic law and defeat specific enemies of Islam.
- Relationship to Law: Christians believe Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant Law (Matthew 5:17) and established a new covenant of grace. Muslims believe Isa will return to enforce Islamic Sharia law.
- Death and Burial: The Bible describes Jesus’ ascension and future glorious return (Acts 1:9-11), not a second death on earth. Islamic tradition states Isa will marry, die a natural death, and be buried in Medina.
For Christians, Jesus’s return affirms His sovereignty and victory over all things, representing a moment of profound hope and ultimate restoration. He returns not to implement an earthly legal system, but to bring His eternal justice and peace. As believers are called to “wait for His Son from heaven” (1 Thessalonians 1:10), their hope is in the glorious, divine return of the same Jesus who “was taken up from you into heaven, [and] will come in the same way as you saw Him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11)—our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.