Jesus, the Son of God

This lesson reveals that salvation is based on knowing Jesus as the Son of God and accepting him as the Lord and saviour. People who were given divine revelation of who Jesus was declared him as the Son of God who held the key of eternal life. Resurrection to death or life depends on people's belief in him. He was more than a political or historical figure, ethical teacher or religious prophet. He was the One sent to reveal God to the world and what God demands of people. John 3:17 - God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world: but that the world through him might be saved. The followings are discussed:
Great Confession; God sent His Son, and The Son gives life.

The Great Confession: Philip's confession was based on what the Old Testament prophecy had stated concerning divine nature of Christ. When Nathaniel heard what Jesus revealed about him, he was surprised and confessed Christ's divine nature as the Son of God (John 1:45&46). Going by what we have learnt about Jesus and the spiritual renewal that his message provides for the world, we should not fail to share his message of salvation.

God Sent His Son: God's love and His promise of salvation is summarised in John 3:16. His plan for redemption of people from the forces of darkness and salvation of their souls from eternal damnation is through the sacrificial offering of His Son (John 3:16-18). This gift of salvation can be received through faith in Christ. Good work is not enough to receive God's salvation, we should confess Jesus as the Lord and Saviour and live in obedience to his message. God's salvation requires spiritual rebirth (being born again) which is available in Christ, and to which believers should respond by faith.

John the Baptist's confession revealed Christ's divinity. He showed the greater ministry God sent Jesus for, which is to lead people through His way of salvation. He also revealed that Christ came from heaven and possessed divine authority, and that he would speak the very true word of God with the power holy Spirit (John 3: 27-36).

The Son Gives Life: Jesus is equal with God the Father. He said he and his Father were One. It's by God's permission that he shared the same status with Him. This was evident from various miracles he performed. His word was of power and authority. As God raised Jesus from death, He will raise and give life to those who walked with Him and die in Christ (John 5:19-23).

The Father loved the Son and gave him the supreme power over death. God wants people to get out of darkness and sin and walk through the way of His righteousness. The ONLY bridge to cross over is His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus was revealed as the way people should follow for salvation of their souls. Two types of resurrection await all people: resurrection to life for those who have done good and resurrection to damnation for those who have done evil (John 5:24-30). It is convenient to do good when we walk in the light of Christ's message. Lesson texts: John 1: 43-51; 3:16-18; 23-36; 5: 19-30