Is Jesus Both Divine and Distinct? A Biblical Examination
In this article, you will learn how John 8:58 contradicts Exodus 3:14, John 14:28, Mark 13:32, Philippians 2:6 and Numbers 23:19. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In discussions about the nature of Jesus, one often encounters both affirmations of his divinity and indications of his distinctiveness from God the Father. A central verse that highlights this duality is John 8:58, where Jesus declares, "Before Abraham was, I am." This statement aligns with Exodus 3:14, where God introduces Himself as "I AM." By using similar language, Jesus underscores his eternal existence, echoing divine attributes.
However, this powerful declaration seems to stand in tension with several other passages. In John 14:28, Jesus remarks, "my Father is greater than I," suggesting a hierarchy within the Godhead. This raises questions about how Jesus can claim equality with God while acknowledging a difference in greatness. Similarly, Mark 13:32 adds complexity when Jesus admits his ignorance about the exact timing of the end times, a notion hard to reconcile with divine omniscience.
Philippians 2:6 describes Jesus as not grasping for equality with God, which some interpret as highlighting his humility and role as a servant. This contrasts with the notion of absolute equality implied in John 8:58. Lastly, Numbers 23:19 states, "God is not a man," which has been interpreted to suggest that equating Jesus too closely with God might conflict with traditional views of divine otherness.
Imagine a unique alloy composed of two metals: distinct in properties yet fused into one form. The biblical texts present a theological alloy—depicting Jesus as divine and yet distinct. These thematic contrasts invite readers to ponder how Jesus can be both fully divine and relationally distinct from God the Father. As students of theology, grappling with these complexities is akin to examining a multifaceted gem, appreciating both its unity and diversity of angles.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | John 8:58 | Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. |
| 2. | Exodus 3:14 | And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. |
| 3. | John 14:28 | Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come [again] unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. |
| 4. | Mark 13:32 | But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. |
| 5. | Philippians 2:6 | Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: |
| 6. | Numbers 23:19 | God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? |