[Note: In this lesson, David talks about Jesus in the past tense, referring to His human existence on earth. In the spiritual sense, Jesus still exists and has always existed. -MRW]

Introduction

• Matthew 16:13-14

He was a real person who lived 2,000 years ago.

• Luke 1:1-5; 2:7; 3:23
• Tacitus wrote about Christians in the first century.

He was the Son of God who lived in a human body.

• John 1:1-5
• Jesus was not simply a wise teacher. He is God’s son.

He introduced a new covenant into the world.

• God had a covenant with Israel, which had been in place for about 1500 years when Jesus arrived.
• John 1:17
• The Old Covenant was meant to be temporary. The New Covenant is better in every way and open to everyone.
• Hebrews 8:1-13

He came to be our Savior.

• I John 4:9-14

He performed miracles to prove His claims.

• Luke 5:18-26
• His followers were persecuted and killed.

He was crucified as a sacrifice for our sins.

• Mark 15:24-39
• Ephesians 1:7

He rose from the dead.

• Mark 16:1-8
• I Corinthians 15:17

He ascended to heaven.

• Acts 1:1-11

His apostles spread their eyewitness testimony.

• Acts 1:8, 21
• I John 1:1-14

He will judge the world in the end.

• Matthew 25:31-46