Lesson 3: Jesus the Son - Our Redeemer and Friend
Part 2 of 3: Knowing the Trinity Personally
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Introduction:
Jesus is the most recognized name in all of history. People have worshipped Him, hated Him, ignored Him, and died for Him. But who is He, really? And what does it mean to not only believe in Jesus but to know Him?
This lesson explores who Jesus is - not just as a historical figure or Savior of the world, but as our Redeemer, Brother, and Friend.
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1. Jesus is God in Human Form
Jesus is not just a wise man or prophet. He is fully God and fully man. He came to show us the Father's heart and to save us from sin.
- John 1:1,14 - "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."
- Colossians 1:15-17 - "The Son is the image of the invisible God... in him all things hold together."
Reflection: Have you ever considered that when you look at Jesus, you are seeing the exact image and heart of God?
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2. Jesus is the Redeemer - Our Sin Substitute
We all fall short of God's holiness, and the penalty for sin is death. Jesus lived a sinless life and died in our place, becoming the perfect sacrifice once for all.
- Romans 5:8 - "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 - "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Reflection: His death was personal. He didn't just die for the world; He died for you.
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3. Jesus is Our Friend and Brother
He is not a distant Savior. He calls us friend. He understands our weakness. He knows pain, betrayal, grief, and temptation. And still, He walks with us.
- John 15:15 - "I no longer call you servants... Instead, I have called you friends."
- Hebrews 2:11 - "Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters."
- Hebrews 4:15 - "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses..."
Reflection: Jesus does not merely save you; He understands you. He walks with you in your daily life.
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Personal Story - Wrestling with Who Jesus Really Is:
One of my greatest struggles in faith was truly believing that Jesus was not just a good man or teacher - but God Himself. I didn't understand why God waited so long to send Him, or how a man who walked the earth 2,000 years ago could be my Savior today.
At first, I thought Jesus might have been just another figure like the founders of other religions. But something kept drawing me to learn more. And slowly, I began to see what made Him different - completely, radically different.
Why Did God Wait to Send Jesus?
Galatians 4:4-5 - "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son... to redeem those under the law."
God wasn't late. He was preparing the world - spiritually, politically, and prophetically. When Jesus came, it was the perfect time for the whole world to see Him and for the gospel to spread. Every story in the Old Testament pointed forward to this moment. He wasn't a reaction to sin; He was the plan all along.
Is There Proof Jesus Was Real?
Yes. Even outside the Bible, history affirms His life:
- Josephus and Tacitus, both non-Christian historians, mention Jesus' crucifixion under Pontius Pilate and the movement that followed.
- Pliny the Younger described early Christians worshiping Jesus as divine.
What Sets Jesus Apart from Other Religious Leaders?
Unlike others, Jesus:
- Claimed to be God (John 10:30)
- Offered forgiveness of sins
- Died willingly for us
- Rose from the dead - and was seen alive by over 500 people (1 Corinthians 15:6)
He isn't buried in a tomb somewhere. He lives.
John 14:6 - "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
And then something in me changed. I realized Jesus wasn't just a man who lived and died - He was the Son of God. He was God in human flesh. He came not only to die for me, but to live with me now - through the Holy Spirit, who would come after Him.
Now, I walk with Jesus as my Savior, yes - but also my Friend, my Redeemer, my constant companion. I no longer wonder who He is. I know Him.
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Reflection Questions:
1. Have I seen Jesus as a distant figure or as someone I truly know?
2. Do I understand that He died specifically for me?
3. Am I walking with Jesus daily, or just believing in Him from a distance?
4. What does friendship with Jesus look like in my life right now?
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Closing Prayer:
"Jesus, thank You for stepping into this world to save me. Thank You for taking my place, for understanding my pain, and for staying near. I want to know You not just as my Savior, but as my Friend. Teach me to walk with You closely. Amen."
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Next Lesson Preview:
Lesson 4: The Holy Spirit - Our Helper and Guide