CWV PAPER

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Grand Canyon University *

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101

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Religion

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Dec 6, 2023

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pdf

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Uploaded by DeanGazelle3543

WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS? 1 Who is Jesus? Malya J. Richmond Grand Canyon University CWV-101 Professor Furmanek 10/23/23

WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS? 2 Who Do You Say Jesus Is? The enigma that has captivated the thoughts of countless individuals, Christians among them, revolves around the identity of Jesus. Although there is no one answer, Mark 8:29 helps us get an understanding of who Jesus is and what his purpose is. In preparation to this essay, I will be asserting the teachings of verse Matthew 5:21-24, as well as a claim about his nature including a verse from Matthew 9:1-8, and of course a personal answer to question from Jesus with some commentaries of each of the following. Part 1: Love Your Enemies In the passage of Matthew 5:43-48, Jesus imparts a profound lesson on love, urging his followers to extend their affection not only to those they hold dear, but also to their adversaries. His teaching underscores the idea that true righteousness is born from a love that is boundless and devoid of any harbored animosity. The Asbury Bible Commentary illuminates this concept, asserting that disciples are called to embody a love that is whole and all-encompassing, reaching even those who harbor enmity and persecution against them (Carpenter & McCown, 1992). It is in demonstrating love towards those who choose to harbor hatred that one attains this state of "perfect love." Though it may appear daunting, the belief in achieving such a state is anchored in the faith in a higher power. For individuals who identify as atheists or pantheists, their perspectives on matters of faith and divinity may diverge significantly. Atheists, in their rejection of a higher being, may not align with the teachings of Jesus or any religious doctrine. Nevertheless, the notion of righteousness through love could resonate with them, for love transcends religious boundaries

WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS? 3 and finds a universal place in the human experience. Even without a belief in God, one can still hold steadfast to the power of love. On the other hand, being a pantheist implies a belief in the unity of God and the universe, seeing them as inseparable entities. In this context, love serves as a unifying force. However, pantheists and atheists alike may regard matters of faith and spirituality as subjective, valuing personal perspectives and not placing significant emphasis on external doctrines. This commentary underscores the imperative to love one another unconditionally, eradicating any space for hatred within our hearts. It affirms that harboring animosity towards another, regardless of their actions, is a transgression. Jesus, in his teachings, advocates for a world characterized by peace, love, and the cessation of malevolent thoughts that may fester within our hearts. Part 2: Claim That Jesus Made About His Nature In the passage found in Matthew 9:1-8, a remarkable event unfolds as Jesus imparts the gift of mobility to a man previously afflicted with paralysis. Jesus, displaying profound compassion, declares the forgiveness of the man's sins. This proclamation arouses skepticism among the learned scholars of the law, who perceive it as an act of blasphemy. In response to their doubts, Jesus orchestrates a compelling demonstration of his divine authority by not only restoring the man's physical well-being but also absolving his spiritual transgressions. This miraculous display underscores Jesus' dominion over the natural order and affirms his possession of divine power. As articulated in the Asbury Commentary, Jesus exhibits mastery over nature, demons, and afflictions (vv.23-27, 28-34, 9:1-8), emphasizing that this extraordinary power extends to the pardoning of sins. This revelation, encapsulated in Jesus' assertion, "But I want

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WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS? 4 you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" (New International Version), resounds with the resonance of absolute authority over earthly sin. Following this proclamation, Jesus instructs the once-paralyzed man to take up his mat and return home. The onlookers, witnessing this awe-inspiring spectacle, are overcome with a profound mixture of astonishment and reverence as they observe the man, once immobilized, rise and journey homeward. In response, a chorus of praise swells from the crowd, acknowledging the endowment of such extraordinary authority to Jesus by the divine. Part 3: Who Do I Say He Is? In order to gain a more nuanced perspective on my convictions regarding Jesus, I delved into various commentaries. Within the pages of Mark 8:29, Jesus poses the question to his disciples, "Who do you say I am?" (New International Version). Personally, I hold the belief that Jesus embodies the role of a savior, wielding dominion over all realms. Moreover, he endured crucifixion as atonement for our transgressions. Jesus’ role in my life is more than just a savior, but a friend. I mean this in the way of Jesus being someone I can rely on, who is always there for me and hears my inner most thoughts. This assignment has prompted me to probe deeper not only into my own comprehension of Jesus, but also into the diverse viewpoints of my peers. Within this class, a rich tapestry of faiths, distinct from Christianity, is woven. It is a valuable opportunity to glean insights into their perspectives on Jesus and their beliefs pertaining to the Divine.

WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS? 5 References Linehan, R. (November 13, 2014). Christian, atheist scientists tackle human nature https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2014/11/christian-atheist-scientists-tackle-human-nature Matthew 5:43-48 NIV - - bible gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved October 23, 2023, from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=matthew%2B5%3A43-48&version=NIV Matthew 9:1-8 NIV - - bible gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved October 23, 2023, from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2B9%3A1-8&version=NIV Mark 8:29 NIV - - Bible Gateway. (n.d.). Retrieved October 23, 2023, from https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=mark%2B8%3A29&version=NIV

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