The Full Divinity of Jesus Christ: Understanding John 1:1c and John 20:31

When examining the Bible text, specifically John 20:30-31 and John 1:1c, it becomes evident why the correct rendering and interpretation of these verses are crucial. The summary at John 20:31 is a concise statement that underscores the core message of the entire Gospel. This article delves into the implications of these verses and clarifies the intended meaning of the phrase 'Son of God.'

Understanding John 20:30-31

John 20:30-31 in the Bible clearly states, 'Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.' (English Standard Version, ESV)

This passage succinctly encapsulates the primary purpose of the Gospel of John: to affirm Jesus as the Christ and the Son of God, thereby providing believers with the abundant life he promises. The inclusion of these verses is pivotal in determining the core message of the entire text.

The Meaning of 'Son of God'

Today, the term 'Son of God' is often misunderstood or misinterpreted. Some argue that Jesus is merely an offspring or a creation of God. However, this interpretation falls short of the original meaning endorsed by the apostle John.

First-Century Jewish Context

In the first century, the phrase 'Son of God' held a profound significance. To a first-century Jewish audience, this term indicated a deep and unique metaphorical relationship between Jesus and God the Father. The concept of a 'son' signified an identity that transcended mere biological or spiritual lineage. It indicated a deeper ontological relationship.

Bar-Mitzvah Rite

During childhood, a Jewish male child was referred to simply as a 'boy.' However, as he approached the age of 12-14, he would undergo the bar-mitzvah rite, marking his transition to adulthood. At that point, he would take on adult responsibilities, including learning his father's trade and being called 'the son of his father.' This transition signified a complete identity and fulfillment with his father.

Similarly, to call someone the 'son of' a particular attribute or quality was a common expression in Jewish language. For instance, in John 17:12, Jesus refers to Judas as 'the son of perdition,' indicating Judas' ultimate fate.

Implication for Jesus

When God the Father calls Jesus 'his Son,' it unequivocally declares that Jesus is the same as His Father. Everything that the Father is, Jesus is. They are one, both being God. This claim was clear to the first-century Jewish audience, as evidenced by the response of the chief priests and scribes during Jesus' trial.

The Trial and Response

As mentioned in John 5:18, Jesus declared, 'He was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.' (ESV) The chief priests heard these words as 'blasphemy.' This reaction demonstrates that, in the context of first-century Judaism, claiming to be the Son of God was tantamount to claiming to be God.

Blasphemy, in its strictest sense, implies words about God that are untrue or forbidden. If 'Son of God' had any meaning other than claiming to be God, the chief priests would not have viewed Jesus' declaration as blasphemy. Their reaction indicates that Jesus' statement was understood as a direct claim to divine status.

Conclusion

In summary, the phrase 'Son of God' in the context of John 1:1c and John 20:31 is a declaration of Jesus' full divinity. It indicates that Jesus is the same God who has been worshipped throughout the entire Old Testament and has taken on flesh to live among and redeem His people. The Gospel of John makes this claim unmistakably clear.

Thus, the statement 'Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God' in John 20:31 is a powerful affirmation of Jesus' divine nature, as he is calling God His own Father, making himself equal with God.