Episode 189 The 167 Podcast - Apologetics Series Pt. 3 - The Evidence For Jesus’ Divine Nature

The Porch Community Church

Welcome to Episode 189 of our Apologetics Series. Today, we delve into the profound evidence for Jesus’ divine nature, a topic that has been scrutinized more than any other in human history. The life and teachings of Jesus have sparked a variety of reactions—some label Him a deceiver, while others have journeyed from skepticism to firm belief in His deity. Still, many sit on the fence, acknowledging His moral teachings but denying His divine sonship. So, what evidence supports the claim that Jesus is the Son of God? Jesus Fulfilled Old Testament Messianic Prophecies Jesus, the apostles, and New Testament prophets frequently referenced Old Testament prophecies to affirm His messianic identity (cf. Luke 24:25-27, 44; Acts 8:30-39). Jesus fulfilled over 300 specific prophecies, including: Born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) Born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14; cf. Genesis 3:15) Descendant of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Judah (Genesis 22:18; 26:4; 49:10; Numbers 24:17) Regal monarch (Psalm 89:3-4; Isaiah 9:6-7; Psalm 110:1) and suffering servant (Isaiah 53) Betrayed by a friend (Psalm 41:9) for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:13) Entered Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9) Clothes distributed by casting lots (Psalm 22:18) Pierced by attackers (Zechariah 12:10) Bones not broken (Psalm 34:20) Body would not decay (Psalm 16:10) These are a few examples among many that identify Jesus as the Messiah. He uniquely fulfilled these prophecies, events that would be impossible to orchestrate artificially. The New Testament Reliability The New Testament's historical accuracy supports Jesus' messianic claims. Archaeology and historical records consistently affirm its accounts, making it the most reliable ancient text. The fulfillment of Messianic prophecies, even those involving ordinary events like Jesus’ betrayal for 30 pieces of silver or riding a donkey into Jerusalem, confirms the divine orchestration of His life. Jesus Worked Miracles Jesus’ miracles served as divine confirmation of His identity and message (Exodus 4:1-9; 1 Kings 18:36-39; Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:3-4). He performed numerous miracles, such as healing the sick, calming storms, and raising the dead, proving His divine authority (John 20:30-31). Variety of Miracles Jesus healed lepers, restored sight to the blind, and even raised the dead (Matthew 15:30; Luke 7:14-15; John 11:1-44). His miracles demonstrated His power over nature, sickness, and death—feats no one else has replicated. Jesus’ Sinless Life Despite severe scrutiny, Jesus lived a sinless life. His challenge, “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” (John 8:46), remains unanswered, affirming His moral perfection (Hebrews 4:15). Conclusion The evidence for Jesus’ deity is compelling: He fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, performed countless miracles, predicted His death and resurrection, accepted worship, lived sinlessly, and claimed divine authority to forgive sins. This overwhelming evidence leads us to proclaim, like Thomas, “My Lord and My God” (John 20:28). Join us as we explore these profound truths, affirming the divine nature of Jesus Christ.