EVANGELISING A MUSLIM

 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHILE EVANGELISING A MUSLIM

ISLAM - FACTS

• There are about 2.0 billion Muslims worldwide, constituting 26% plus of the world population.
• The largest share (roughly 59%) of Muslims live in the Asia-Pacific region. About 18% of all Muslims now live in Sub-Saharan Africa. 
• The two largest branches of Muslims are: Sunnis (85-90%) and Shias (10-15%).   
• Roughly 14% of India’s population are Muslims.
• Islam was founded around 610 CE in Mecca (modern-day Saudi Arabia) when the prophet Mohamed began receiving divine revelations. 

FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM

Pillar: 1. Declaration of Faith 
“There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.” This is the foundation of Islamic belief.

Pillar: 2. Prayer 
Muslims pray five times a day  facing the Kaaba in Mecca. It's a direct link between the worshipper and Allah.

Pillar: 3. Almsgiving 
Giving 2.5% of one’s savings to the poor and needy each year. It purifies wealth and helps social justice.

Pillar: 4. Fasting in Ramadan 
Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during the month of Ramadan—no food, drink, or marital relations. It teaches discipline and gratitude.

Pillar: 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca
Muslims who are physically and financially able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. It occurs in the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah.

SCRIPTURE OF ISLAM

Primary Scripture — The Qur’an (Koran)

This is believed by Muslims to be the literal word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of about 23 years (610–632 CE) by Angel Gabriel in Arabic. Muhammad memorized and recited these words to his followers, who also memorized or wrote them down. After his death, the revelations were collected and compiled into one book around 650 CE. 

Secondary Scripture -  Hadith  
Collections of sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad. They explain and expand on the Qur’an (e.g., how to pray, fast, perform Hajj, etc.).

Tafsir (Commentaries)
Scholarly explanations of the Qur’an’s meaning, context, and interpretation.
Example: Tafsir al-Tabari, Tafsir Ibn Kathir.

Sharia (Islamic Law)
Derived from Qur’an + Hadith + scholarly consensus (ijma) + analogy (qiyas). Governs religious, personal, social, and legal matters.

HOW MUSLIMS VIEW CHRISTIANS

• Christians (and Jews) are called People of the Scripture—because they received earlier revelations from God.
• Christians are respected as believers in one God, but Islam teaches that Christians altered or misunderstood parts of the original message.
• Islam teaches Jesus (Isa) was a prophet, born of a virgin, performed miracles, but was not God or Son of God, and was not crucified.
• Muslims reject the Trinity, believing Christians wrongly associate partners with God.
• Some Qur’anic verses say righteous Christians who believe in God and do good may be rewarded, but later Islamic theology commonly says true salvation is through Islam.

INJIL VS GOSPELS

• The Qur’an mentions the Injil several times — about 12 times — always with respect and divine origin. 
• Muslims view the original Injil as a single divine book given directly to Jesus, not the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). 
• Muslims believe that the original Injil was lost or altered over time. 
• The Gospels of the New Testament is the good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died and rose again to bring forgiveness and eternal life.

OBJECTIONS BY MUSLIMS ABOUT CHRISTIAN FAITH

“How can God have a Son?” 
Response : “Son of God” is not biological — it means a unique, eternal relationship within God. (John 1:14, John 5:18)

“The Bible is corrupted.” 
Response : The Bible we have is verified by manuscripts predating Islam.

“Jesus never said ‘I am God."

Response : Jesus made divine claims implicitly (Mark 2:5–7, John 10:30, John 14:9). His hearers understood this clearly (John 5:18).

“How can God die?” 
Response : God in His divine nature cannot die; but the Son took on humanity so He could die for sins (Philippians 2:6–8).

“We believe in one God, you believe in three.” 
Response : Christians also believe in one God — the Trinity is unity in diversity. The Father, Son, and Spirit share one divine essence.

CORE DOCTRINAL DIFFERENCES (ISLAM VS CHRISTIANITY)
God

Bible teaches Trinity — one God in three Persons but Quran teaches
Strict monotheism, denies any plurality in God.

Jesus 
Bible teaches Jesus as  Son of God, divine, Savior, crucified and resurrected.  but Quran teaches Jesus as a great prophet, virgin-born, not divine, not crucified. 

Scripture
For Christians, Bible is the inspired Word of God.
But Muslims view Qur’an as final revelation. Bible seen as altered.

Salvation
In Christianity Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ.
In Islam, salvation is through good deeds, prayer, fasting, and Allah’s mercy 

Sin and Atonement
Christians teach that Jesus’ death paid for sin. Muslims teach that humans make errors, but no original sin. atonement not required.

JESUS IN QURAN

• The Quran presents Jesus as a Muslim (one who submits to God's will), and his original message is considered to be one of mercy and compassion. 
• Jesus is considered a prophet and a messenger from God.
• The Quran affirms his miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary.
• He is called the Messiah (al-Masih), a title mentioned 11 times in the Quran.
• He is described as having performed many miracles.
• The Quran explicitly rejects the idea of Jesus being divine or the son of God.
• The Quran denies that Jesus was crucified.

JESUS IN QURAN VS JESUS IN GOSPELS

ORIGIN AND NATURE
Bible: Existed before creation; the eternal Word of God (John 1:1–3, 14) 
Quran: Created by Allah’s command (Qur’an 3:59)

Bible: God in human flesh — “the Word became flesh” (John 1:14; Col. 2:9) 
Quran: Fully human prophet; not divine (Qur’an 5:17, 5:75)

Bible: Son of God, one with the Father (John 10:30) 
Quran: Denied — “Allah has no son” (Qur’an 112:3; 5:116)

In Bible Jesus is God incarnate but in Quran Jesus is a created messenger

VIRGIN BIRTH 
Bible: Conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of Mary (Luke 1:35; Matthew 1:23) 
Quran: Virgin birth affirmed — born to Mary without a man (Qur’an 3:45–47)
Both agree on the miraculous virgin birth, but the cause differs — in the Bible, by the Holy Spirit, in the Qur’an, by Allah’s command.

MISSION 
Bible: To save sinners by dying for their sins (Luke 19:10; John 3:16)
Quran: To preach monotheism and confirm previous prophets (Qur’an 3:49–51; 43:63)

MESSAGE
Bible: “Repent and believe the Gospel” (Mark 1:15) — Salvation by grace 
Quran: “Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord” (Qur’an 3:51) — Submission to God.

MIRACLES
Bible: Healed, raised the dead by His authority as God (John 11:43)
Quran: Performed miracles by Allah’s permission (Qur’an 5:110)
In the Bible, Jesus acts with divine authority. But in the Qur’an, Jesus acts as Allah’s servant.

CRUCIFIXION
Bible: Crucified, died for sins, buried, rose again on the third day (1 Cor 15:3–4)
Quran: Not crucified; someone made to look like Him (Qur’an 4:157–158)

RESURRECTION 
Bible: Bodily resurrection is central to faith (Romans 10:9)
Quran: Denied — instead, Allah raised Jesus up alive without dying

SECOND COMING
Bible: Jesus will return in glory to judge the living and the dead (Mt 25:31–32)
Quran: Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment, defeat the false messiah, and rule justly — not as Son of God but as servant of Allah (Qur’an 43:61)

Christianity centers on the Cross, while Islam denies it entirely. 
Both affirm His future return, but the purpose and authority differ.

SALVATION THROUGH JESUS 
Bible: Through faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection (Ephesians 2:8–9)
Quran: Through good deeds and Allah’s mercy (Qur’an 23:102–103)

JESUS AS MEDIATOR 
Bible: Jesus is the only mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5)
Quran: No mediator; each soul stands before Allah alone (Qur’an 17:15)

Romans 10:9-10 teaches that salvation comes from openly confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in your heart that God raised Him from the dead.
CHRISTIAN FAITH: DEITY - DEATH - RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST
Muslims deny these three things: Deity, Death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

HOLY SPIRIT IN ISLAM

• The Qur’an mentions the Holy Spirit but does not describe Him as God. Muslims believe it means Gabriel or divine power.
• Muslims believe the “Holy Spirit” refers to Angel Jibril (Gabriel), who brought revelation (wahy) from Allah to prophets.
• When the Qur’an says Jesus was “strengthened by the Holy Spirit,” Muslims understand it to mean Gabriel supported or aided Jesus
• Some scholars interpret it as a divine power or spiritual force sent by Allah to strengthen prophets, especially Jesus. In this view, the Holy Spirit is not a person, but rather an impersonal energy or help from God.

CONCEPT OF SALVATION IN ISLAM
Salvation in Islam is achieved through submitting to and worshiping Allah alone, guided by the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. 

KEY PRINCIPLES FOR SALVATION IN ISLAM

• Believe in and worship Allah as the one and only God.
• Believe in all prophets, particularly Muhammad as the final messenger, and accepting the Quran as the final revelation from God. 
• Salvation is earned through performing good deeds and following the commandments of Allah. The five pillars of Islam are a framework. 
• Spiritual purification of the heart and soul from vices like hate and malice through constant prayer, supplications, and good deeds. 
• Seeking Allah's forgiveness through sincere repentance for past sins is essential. This includes remorse, fulfilling obligations to others, etc.
• Ultimately, entry into Paradise is through Allah's mercy, which is not guaranteed by deeds alone. Good deeds are necessary to come closer to God and increase the hope of receiving His mercy. 

HOW ARE MUSLIMS LED TO CHRIST?
Through Love and Witness of Christians: Muslims often say they were first touched by the love, humility, and character of Christian friends.

Dreams and Visions of Jesus (“Man in White”): Many Muslims testify that Jesus appeared to them in dreams or visions, especially in countries closed to Christianity.

Reading the Bible (Especially the New Testament): When Muslims read the teachings of Jesus (Injil/Gospels), the Sermon on the Mount, or the love and sacrifice of Christ on the cross, they often encounter a God of mercy, relationship, and grace, very different from what they expected.

Power of Prayer and Miracles: Some Muslims turn to Jesus during times of sickness, fear, or crisis. When they pray “Isa, if You are real, help me,” and God answers, they begin to believe.

Dissatisfaction or Questions About Islam: Some Muslims begin seeking when they struggle with fear-based relationship with God. Lack of assurance of salvation, violence or hypocrisy they see in their religious system and the desire for a personal relationship with God.

TESTIMONIES
NABEEL QURESHI
Nabeel Qureshi was born in 1983 in California, ....From childhood, he learned to recite the Qur’an in Arabic, pray five times a day, and defend Islam whenever questioned. While studying medicine in college, Nabeel met a Christian student named David Wood. Nabeel tried to prove Islam true and Christianity false to David Wood — but over time, he found powerful evidence for the Bible and the identity of Jesus. He discovered that Jesus claimed to be God in human form, who died for sinners and rose again — something the historical evidence strongly supported. One night, after asking God to show him the truth clearly, Nabeel had a vision and three dreams from God that confirmed that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Finally, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ — knowing it would cost him everything. His family was heartbroken, but he found peace, forgiveness, and joy in Christ.
Nabeel left his medical career to become a Christian apologist and wrote powerful books including: Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus &  No God But One: Allah or Jesus? He passed away in September 2017, at age 34, after a year of struggle with stomach Cancer, saying: “The message of Jesus is the message of peace, love, and truth. No matter what happens, seek Him.”

DR. MARK GABRIEL – FORMER AL-AZHAR PROFESSOR (EGYPT)
Mark Gabriel (not his birth name) was a professor of Islamic history at Al-Azhar University, one of Islam’s most prestigious institutions. After questioning violent interpretations of Islam, he was imprisoned and tortured. While recovering, he began reading the New Testament, and Jesus’ words in the Gospels touched his heart. He accepted Christ secretly, fled Egypt, and now teaches about the love of Jesus. 

YASMIN (IRAN) 
A young Iranian woman named Yasmin had never met a Christian. One night she saw a man in white saying, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” She later found a Bible, read the same words in John 14:6, and wept, realizing it was Jesus. She now leads underground Bible studies among women in Iran.

MOHAMMED (SAUDI ARABIA)
Mohammed grew up memorizing the Qur’an but was always afraid of God’s judgment.
When he found an online Bible and began reading about Jesus, he was struck by His compassion for sinners. He prayed, “Jesus, if You are real, show me.” That night he felt a deep peace for the first time. He now follows Christ quietly and shares his faith.

AFSHIN JAVID – FROM HEZBOLLAH TO CHRIST
Afshin Javid, an Iranian soldier and Muslim extremist, was in prison in Malaysia. He encountered a demonic presence and cried out to Allah — but nothing happened. Out of desperation, he cried out, “Jesus, if You are real, reveal Yourself!” A bright light filled his cell, and Jesus appeared to him, saying, “I forgive you.” He became a passionate follower of Christ and now preaches globally.

KHALIL – FORMER IMAM 
Khalil, an imam in North Africa, became troubled when he read that Jesus performed miracles, forgave sins, and would return at the end of time. He prayed for revelation, and Jesus appeared to him in a vision saying, “I am the One you are searching for.” Khalil believed and now secretly teaches others about Christ using the Qur’an and the Bible.

COMMON THINGS IN MUSLIM CONVERSIONS
Jesus often appears through dreams, visions, or the Word of God.
The message of forgiveness and love breaks the fear of judgment.
Many face rejection or persecution, yet live with unshakable peace.

EVANGELISING A HINDU

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHILE EVANGELISING A HINDU 

HOW IS HINDUISM DIFFERENT FROM CHRISTIANITY?

• No single founder. Developed through many sages, scriptures, and traditions. 
• Many deities are seen as different manifestations of the same divine.
• Jesus is often respected as a holy man, teacher, yogi, or even seen by some as a divine incarnation, but not uniquely the only Son of God.

SCRIPTURE OF HINDUS

SRUTI (Divinely revealed texts to ancient sages)

• Vedas - Rigveda (hymns to deities, philosophy, prayers), Samaveda (chants and melodies for rituals), Yajurveda (sacrificial formulas and rituals), Atharvaveda (hymns, spells, healing verses).
• Brahmanas – prose texts explaining Vedic rituals and sacrifices. 
• Aranyakas – bridging ritual with meditation, for hermits. 
• Upanishads – philosophical teachings on Brahman (ultimate reality), Atman (soul), and liberation (moksha).

SMRTI (Texts composed by sages under divine inspiration)

• Itihasas (epics): Ramayaṇa, Mahabharata
• Dharma Sastras (law books): e.g., Manusmṛti
• Puraṇas (Viṣṇu Puraṇa, Siva Puraṇa, Devi Bhagavata)
• Agamas & Tantras (ritual manuals for temple worship

BHAGAVAD GITA

• A 700-verse section of the Mahabharata, presenting dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna.
• All major Hindu traditions accept the Bhagavad Gita as an authoritative scripture.
• The oldest surviving written witnesses are on palm leaf or birch bark, generally from 10th–14th century CE.
• Key Message: Live with integrity, act selflessly, cultivate knowledge and devotion, and steady your mind through discipline — these lead to inner freedom and union with the Divine.

PRIESTS IN HINDUISM

• Vedic priests: Recite and chant Vedic hymns at large yajnas and samskaras (life-cycle rituals).
• Pujari/ Archaka - Temple priests: perform daily worship (puja), aarti, abhiṣeka, distribute prasada, maintain deity images.
• Purohit - Family priest: guides weddings, naming ceremonies, housewarmings, death rituals.
• Tantric or Saiva priests - Specialists in temple or home rituals for Siva, Sakti, Gaṇesa, etc., sometimes using Tantric manuals.
• Vedic scholars (paṇḍits) - Teach scripture, astrology, Sanskrit; may or may not conduct rituals.

VIEWS ABOUT OF GOD IN HINDUISM

• Brahman : The Upanishads describe Brahman as the ultimate, infinite reality behind the universe. 
• Isvara:  When Brahman is conceived with attributes (compassion, power, justice), it is called Isvara.
• Trimurti : Classical Hinduism often speaks of the Trimurti (Brahma – the creator; Vishnu – the preserver; Siva – the dissolver or transformer). They are not three separate gods in all schools; some see them as different aspects of one Supreme.
• Panentheism : God is present in every being yet also transcends creation.
• Henotheism: One deity is worshipped as supreme without denying others.
• Polytheism : Many gods and goddesses honored as aspects of the One.
• Monism: Considering only Brahman is ultimately real; gods are its manifestations.

VIEWS ABOUT ORIGIN OF UNIVERSE IN HINDUISM

• Cyclic Creation and Dissolution: The universe is eternal and cyclical, not created once for all time. Each cycle is called a kalpa, lasting billions of years, after which the universe dissolves and is created again.
• As per Upanishads and Vedanta, the origin of the universe is from Brahman, the infinite, formless, eternal reality.
• As per Puranas, Brahma is creator, Vishnu is sustainer and Shiva is destroyer.

VIEW ABOUT SOUL IN HINDUISM

Soul is described as the eternal, unchanging core of every living being — beyond body, senses, and mind. Bhagavad Gita 2:20, “For the soul there is neither birth nor death at any time. It has not come into being, does not come into being, and will not come into being. It is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, and primeval. It is not slain when the body is slain.”

VIEW ABOUT SIN IN HINDUISM

• Sin is understood less as a legal guilt and more as karmic impurity that binds the soul.
• Hinduism teaches that the universe is governed by dharma (cosmic law/order). When humans act against dharma, it produces bad karma (papa), which leads to suffering in this or future lives.
• Therefore, sin is essentially ignorance-driven action that causes bondage (samsara).
• Sin creates bad karma, leading to: sufferings, negative rebirth, delay in attaining moksha (liberation)

DELIVERANCE FROM PAPA IN HINDUISM

Hinduism emphasizes transformation rather than punishment for sins (Papa).

• Prayascitta (atonement) – penances, fasting, charity, pilgrimages, mantra recitation.
• Jnana (knowledge) – realizing the Self removes ignorance and thus the root of sin.
• Bhakti (devotion) – surrender to God; grace can burn away sins.
• Karma Yoga – selfless action without selfish motive purifies the heart.

In Hindu thought, “salvation” is usually called moksha (also mukti). It means freedom for the atman (soul) from saṃsara — the continual cycle of birth, death, and rebirth driven by karma.

DIFFERENT PATHS FOR MOKSHA IN HINDUISM

Different schools emphasize one or combine them; all aim at breaking the bondage of karma.

• Knowledge: Realizing Soul is Brahman through study and contemplation of the Upaniṣads.
• Devotion: Loving surrender to a personal God.
• Selfless action: Performing duties without attachment to the results.
• Meditation: Discipline of body and mind leading to direct experience of the Self.

NEW AGE HINDUISM

• New Age Hinduism is a modern, eclectic spirituality inspired by Hindu philosophy and yoga, mixed with global New Age ideas about personal transformation and cosmic energy.
• Emphasis on personal growth, energy work, and self-realization.
• Goal: healing, abundance, higher consciousness, planetary awakening.
• New Age gurus present spirituality as universal, experiential, and practical.….They use English or simple translations rather than Sanskrit texts……They offer retreats, online Satsang, healing workshops, or motivational talks……They often engage with psychology, wellness, ecology, or leadership training.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHILE INTRODUCING CHRIST TO HINDU FRIEND

• Build genuine Friendships. Be warm, respectful, and hospitable. Trust comes before words.
• Avoid debating idols, caste, or philosophy. Gently but clearly point to the uniqueness of Jesus—His love, cross, and resurrection. 
• Let them see Christ in your lifestyle.
• Acts of kindness, service, and integrity often speak louder than sermons.
• Pray with and for them. When they share a struggle offer to pray for them and with them. Can share testimonies of answered prayer.
• Introduce Scripture. Gift a New Testament or share stories of Jesus.
• Explain Grace vs. Karma. Many Hindus live under the weight of karma and rebirth, fearing endless cycles of suffering. Share that in Christ, forgiveness is not earned but freely given by grace.
• Use bridges. Concepts like sacrifice, purity, devotion (bhakti), and liberation (moksha) connect naturally to the gospel.

Example 1 – A Student and Her Roommate

Anitha grew up in a Hindu family that faithfully worshiped their household gods. When she moved to the city for college, she shared a hostel room with a Christian student. Every evening, Anitha noticed her roommate kneel and pray to Jesus. She never forced religion on her, but her life was marked by kindness, patience, and peace.

One day, Anitha faced a personal crisis when she failed an important exam and felt hopeless. Her roommate gently said, “Can I pray for you? Jesus cares about you.” The prayer touched her deeply, and for the first time she sensed God’s presence. Later, the roommate gave her a New Testament. Reading the words of Jesus, Anitha discovered a God who offered forgiveness and love, not fear and endless rituals. Over time, she put her faith in Christ.

Example 2 – A Shopkeeper and a Neighbor’s Prayer

Ramesh owned a small shop in his town. His young son became seriously ill, and despite visiting temples and offering rituals, nothing changed. A Christian neighbor who often visited his shop noticed his worry and said, “We believe Jesus heals. May I pray for your child?” Desperate, Ramesh agreed.

That night, they prayed in Jesus’ name, and soon his son’s condition improved. Ramesh was surprised—he had prayed to many gods, but none responded like this. Out of gratitude, he began to ask questions: “Who is this Jesus?” The neighbor patiently explained the gospel, using stories from the Bible. Months later, Ramesh and his wife began attending a small house fellowship. As he experienced the peace of Christ and freedom from fear of spirits, he surrendered his life to Jesus.

Example 3 – A Worker and His Colleague

Vijay worked in a factory where one of his colleagues was a Christian. He noticed this man never used foul language, worked honestly, and treated others fairly. Curious, Vijay asked, “Why don’t you cheat like others?” The man replied, “Because I follow Jesus, who taught us to live in truth.”

Over the months, the colleague shared small gospel tracts and invited Vijay to a Christmas program. There, Vijay heard clearly about the cross and resurrection for the first time. The message of forgiveness—not through karma or rebirth but by grace—stirred his heart. After many discussions and questions about idols, sin, and salvation, Vijay prayed with his colleague to accept Christ.

JEHOVAH WITNESSES

WHY JEHOVAH WITNESSES IS A CULT? 

A "cult" is a group that claims to follow Jesus or the Bible but denies one or more essential doctrines of historic Christianity.  Some of the key core doctrines denied by Jehovah Witnesses are,

• JW rejects Trinity (God as one being existing in three persons). They believe in one God, Jehovah
• JW do not believe that Jesus is fully divine and fully human. They believe Jesus is a created being (Michael the Archangel).
• JW do not believe in the divinity of the Holy Spirit. They believe the Holy Spirit as an impersonal force.
• JW do not believe in salvation by faith through grace alone. They believe salvation is through combination of faith + works + loyalty to Watchtower.

FACTS & STATS - JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES 

• Total members approximately 9,043,460 worldwide 
• Number of Congregations: about 118,767 
• Territories (Lands) where they preach: 240 
• Annual Memorial Attendance: roughly 21,119,442
• Baptisms (2024): about 296,267 new baptized publishers
• The Watchtower publications circulated to 21.7 million readers annually
• The Watchtower publications available in 444 languages 
• The Watchtower Study Edition released monthly, in 463 languages
• About 2.4% worldwide annual increase in members in 2024
• There are 56,747 Ministers in India who teach the Bible. 
• The group has 947 congregations in India.

ORIGIN OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES 

• In the late 19th century, Charles Taze Russell (1852–1916)  began studying the Bible independently and rejected many traditional Christian doctrines, like the immortality of the soul and the Trinity. 
• He formed a Bible study group called the Zion’s Watch Tower Tract Society in 1884 and renamed as Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society in 1896.
• Russell published a series of books called “Studies in the Scriptures” that introduced his unique teachings about prophecy, the second coming of Christ, and God’s Kingdom. 
• Early followers were attracted by his literal interpretation of prophecy, especially regarding the imminent return of Christ and the restoration of God’s kingdom on earth.

GROWTH OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES

After Russell’s death in 1916, Joseph Franklin Rutherford took leadership and introduced the name “Jehovah’s Witnesses” in 1931. 

• Emphasis on prophecy and end-times: People hungry for answers about the future were drawn to their detailed timelines.
• Strong community and discipline: A tight-knit group with clear rules attracted people seeking belonging.
• Innovative evangelism: Systematic door-to-door preaching and literature distribution spread their message widely.
• Appeal to personal Bible study: Encouraging individuals to read and interpret Scripture created committed followers.

THE WATCH TOWER BIBLE AND TRACT SOCIETY

• Legal and administrative body for Jehovah's Witnesses.
• Based in Warwick, New York, USA.
• JW consider it as the “faithful and discreet slave” (Matthew 24:45–47).
• JWs believe the Watch Tower Society is God’s sole channel of communication on earth.
• Controlled by the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses, a small group of men who claim to be part of the anointed 144,000.
• They make all decisions on doctrine, organizational rules, and publications.
• Members must follow its teachings and instructions without question.
• Produces all official literature: Awake! Magazine, books, tracts, videos, and online contents on JW.org

KINGDOM HALL

• A place of worship for Jehovah’s Witnesses.
• No stained glass, crosses, statues, etc.
• Built and maintained by Jehovah’s Witnesses themselves.
• No tithes or collections during services. 
• All construction, maintenance, and utilities are funded by voluntary donations.
• As of 2024, there are about 118,000 congregations-each usually has its own Kingdom Hall or shares one.
• Usually two meetings per week: Weekend Meeting - Public talk + Watchtower Study; Midweek Meeting - Bible reading, training, discussion
• All elders and ministers are unpaid volunteers. 
• Most Kingdom Halls have audio-visual equipment for videos and online JW content.

JEHOVAH WITNESSES’ ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Jehovah (God)

   ↓

Governing Body (at world headquarters in Warwick, New York)

   ↓

Branch Committees (oversee countries or regions)

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Regional Committees (coordinate large geographic areas within a branch’s oversight)

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Circuit Overseers (visit and supervise about 20 congregations in a circuit)

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Local Congregation Elders (body of elders in each congregation)

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Ministerial Servants (assist elders in practical duties)

   ↓

Publishers (regular members who actively preach)

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Bible Students (new learners not yet baptized)

STEPS BEFORE FORMALLY BECOMING JEHOVAH WITNESS

1. Initial Contact & Interest : Usually begins when someone meets Jehovah’s Witnesses through their door-to-door ministry, public witnessing, or personal invitation. 

2. Bible Study with a Witness : Interested individuals are offered free, personalized Bible studies with a Jehovah’s Witness. This phase can take weeks or months, depending on the individual’s pace and questions.

3. Regular Meeting Attendance : The person is encouraged to attend meetings at the Kingdom Hall, including public talks, Watchtower study sessions, and congregation meetings. 

4. Lifestyle Changes and Commitment : As understanding grows, individuals are expected to align their life with JW teachings (e.g., moral standards, abstaining from certain activities). 

5. Baptism : When the person fully agrees with the beliefs and demonstrates a committed lifestyle, they may be invited to be baptized by full immersion. Baptism is considered the formal step of becoming a Jehovah’s Witness and publicly identifying with the organization.

6. Membership & Active Participation : After baptism, the person is officially recognized as a Jehovah’s Witness. They continue participating in meetings, ministry, and living by the organization’s standards.

ANOINTED CLASS & GREAT CROWD

Rev 7:4 : Then I heard the number of those who were sealed: 144,000 from all the tribes of Israel. 

Rev 14:1 : Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name written on their foreheads. 

Rev 7:9 : After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. 

Their teaching from the above verses are

144,000 = Anointed Jehovah’s Witnesses (heavenly rulers – rule with Jesus).

Great Crowd = Faithful Jehovah’s Witnesses live in new Earth.

Mainstream Christians = Not saved unless they become JWs before Armageddon.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ VIEW ABOUT JESUS CHRIST

JW believe Jesus is 

• God’s first creation — Michael the Archangel.
• Jesus is the promised Messiah sent by Jehovah to redeem humanity. 
• Jehovah’s Witnesses focus heavily on Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom of God as a real government in heaven that will soon bring peace and restore earth to paradise. 
• They stress Jesus’ command to preach this Kingdom message.
• Jesus is viewed as the mediator between God and humans.
• JW believe that Jesus is currently ruling invisibly from heaven and will judge humanity at Armageddon.

JW’s VIEW ABOUT BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST

• JWs believe that Jesus existed as a spirit being in heaven before coming to earth. 
• He was God’s first creation (the Archangel Michael).
• JWs fully accept the virgin birth. They believe Jehovah transferred Jesus’ life from heaven to Mary’s womb by holy spirit. 
• JWs emphasize that Jesus’ birth was the beginning of the ransom arrangement to save obedient humans from sin and death 

JW’s VIEW ABOUT CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS CHRIST

• JW teach that Jesus was executed on a single upright stake, not on a traditional cross.
• The New Testament uses: σταυρός (staurós) – primarily means stake, pole, or upright piece of wood in classical Greek. ξύλον (xýlon) – means wood, tree, or timber. 
• In the 1st century, staurós could refer to a simple upright stake or a stake with a crossbeam (T or † shape). By the 1st century, crosses with a crossbeam were common for crucifixion. The condemned often carried the crossbeam (patibulum) to the execution site, then it was fastened to an upright post. Early Christian writings and archaeology show crosses with crossbeams. The church fathers described Jesus’ execution instrument as a cross with a crossbeam.

JW’s VIEW ABOUT RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION OF JESUS CHRIST

Resurrection

JWs believe Jesus was resurrected as a spirit creature, not in his human body: body was not resurrected but disposed of by God. 
After resurrection, he materialized temporary bodies to appear to disciples.

Ascension and Kingship

After 40 days, Jesus ascended to heaven and resumed his role as Michael the Archangel.

He sat at Jehovah’s right hand and began ruling in 1914 as King of God’s Kingdom. 

What they Reject

Jesus as God – They reject the Trinity.

Christmas and Easter celebrations – viewed as pagan in origin.

Use of the cross – considered a pagan symbol.

JW’s VIEW ABOUT  SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST

• JWs teach that Jesus’ second coming is invisible, as a spirit being, not in the flesh.
• They teach that Jesus will not appear on earth in bodily form because he gave up his human body forever misinterpreting 1 Peter 3:18 (For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit)
• JWs believe Jesus’ second coming already happened in 1914, starting His invisible heavenly rule as King of God’s Kingdom. 

JW’s VIEW ABOUT  END TIME EVENTS

According to JWs, the following events will happen in end times:

Great tribulation - Political power destroys all religions including Christianity.

Armageddon - Governments will turn against Jehovah’s Witnesses. Jehovah will then intervene through Jesus and will destroy all wicked humans.
Christ’s Reign of 1,000 Years - After Armageddon, Satan will be  bound for 1,000 years. Jesus will rule as King along with the 144,000 anointed in heaven. The Great Crowd, who are alive and loyal to Jehovah along with the resurrected ones (faithful servants from the past like Abraham, Moses and those people who never knew Jehovah or didn’t get a real chance to learn about Jehovah) will remain on earth and will start turning the earth into a paradise.
End of Millennium and Final test: After 1,000 years, Satan will be released for a final test. Satan will attempt to mislead people again from following JW and Jehovah. Those who remain loyal will gain everlasting life. Those who do not follow JW and Jehovah will be destroyed forever along with Satan.

SOME FAILED PREDICTIONS OF JW

• 1874 : Charles Taze Russell taught that Christ’s invisible presence began in 1874 and that the end would soon follow.
• 1914 : Early Watch Tower literature claimed “the end of the present system” would occur in 1914. They teach Jesus became king in Heaven in 1914.
• 1918 :  The Watchtower said God would destroy all churches and members of Christendom, and millions would die in 1918. (Great Tribulation)
• 1925 : The book “Millions Now Living Will Never Die” (1920) claimed:
• “We may confidently expect that 1925 will mark the return of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the faithful prophets of old.” (1000 years reign will start)
• 1975 : In the 1966 book “Life Everlasting in Freedom of the Sons of God,” they strongly suggested 6,000 years of human history would end in 1975, leading to Armageddon.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ VIEW OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Jehovah’s Witnesses teach that the Holy Spirit is not a distinct person. They do not attribute divinity to the Holy Spirit.

• They describe the Holy Spirit as God’s invisible, impersonal active force.
• They believe that the Holy Spirit is a mean by which Jehovah accomplishes His will.
• They believe that the Holy Spirit is the power God uses to inspire prophets, guide Jesus, and empower Jehovah’s Witnesses today in preaching and living.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ VIEW ON LIFE AFTER DEATH 

• Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that when a person dies, they cease to exist — the body returns to the dust, and the “soul” is not immortal. 
• JWs reject the idea of an immortal soul going immediately to heaven or hell after death. They do not believe in eternal torment in hell. 
• Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in a future resurrection when God will bring people back to life on earth. This resurrection will happen during Christ’s 1,000-year reign (the Millennium). 
• Only 144,000 “anointed” Christians will go to heaven to rule with Christ. 
• The majority of faithful Jehovah’s Witnesses (the crowd) hope to live forever on earth.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ VIEW OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD

• Jehovah’s Witnesses teach that the Kingdom of God is a literal government established by God in heaven. 
• Jesus Christ is the King of this Kingdom, reigning since 1914. 
• Along with Jesus, 144,000 anointed Christians will reign with him in heaven as kings and priests. 
• Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that this Kingdom will soon replace all earthly governments and bring peace, righteousness, and restoration to the earth. This is a central part of their preaching and hope.

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ VIEW OF SALVATION

• JW believe that Salvation is a process involving both faith and works — believing in the sacrifice of Jesus and being loyal to the directions and teachings of Watchtower society and along with living a morally clean life.
• Faith + Works + Organization = Salvation
• They believe that Jesus’ sacrifice is necessary for salvation because it made resurrection and forgiveness possible. 
• They are expected to be loyal to Watch tower society, participate in regular door-to-door preaching and ministry work, obeying the commands and teachings coming through Watch Tower Society.

FIRSTBORN

"Firstborn" (Greek: prototokos)

Colossians 1:15 – "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation."

Romans 8:29 – "…that He might be the firstborn among many brothers."

Revelation 1:5 – "Jesus Christ… the firstborn from the dead…"

In Jewish culture, the “firstborn” son had special rights and status, even if not born first (Psalm 89:27 – “I will make him the firstborn, the highest of the kings of the earth.”)

In Colossians 1:15, Paul is not saying Jesus is a created being, but that He holds supremacy over all creation.

In Revelation 1:5 and Romans 8:29, "firstborn" refers to Jesus being the first to rise from the dead in a glorified body, showing He is the prototype of the future resurrection.

The Greek word prototokos (πρωτότοκος) means "firstborn". 

While it can refer to the first child of a human or animal, it also carries the meaning of "first in rank" or "preeminent". In a biblical context, it is used to describe both the first child of a human or beast and, in reference to Jesus, as the firstborn over all creation and the firstborn from the dead, signifying His supreme status and preeminence.

BEGOTTEN

 "Begotten" (Greek: monogenēs, or "only-begotten")

John 1:14 : "We have seen His glory, glory as of the only-begotten from the Father."

John 3:16 : "For God so loved the world that He gave His only-begotten Son…"

The Greek word monogenēs (μονογενής) translates to English as "only begotten" or "one of a kind", depending on context. 

For Jesus Christ, 

monogenēs refers to His unique relationship with God the Father, meaning He is "one of a kind" and "unique" rather than simply the "only begotten" son in a biological sense. The Greek word combines mono ("only") with genos ("kind" or "class"), emphasizing that Jesus is of the same divine nature as the Father, making Him the only one in existence with such an eternal, filial relationship with God. 

NEW WORLD TRANSLATION (MANIPULATED BIBLE TRANSLATION OF JW)

• The New World Translation (NWT) is the Bible translation produced by the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society. It was first published in English in 1950 and later in many languages. The NWT is available in more than 115 languages 
• They have inserted the name “Jehovah” over 7,000 times in the Old Testament and in 237 places to suit their doctrine disclaiming the deity of Jesus Christ. Original Greek texts use Kyrios (Lord) in the New Testament.
• Passages traditionally used to support the deity of Christ are translated differently.
• Words like hell are replaced with Hades or Sheol; cross is replaced with torture stake.

EXAMPLES – NEW WORLD TRANSLATION MANIPULATIONS

John 1:1 – "The Word was God"

NWT: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was a god.”

JW Interpretation: Jesus is a god, a lesser, created being—not Almighty God.

The Greek (Ἐν ἀρχῇ ἦν ὁ Λόγος...) clearly implies that Jesus (the Word) is God in essence, not “a god.”

 

Colossians 1:15–17 : The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 

  

NWT : He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation;  because by means of him all other things were created in the heavens and on the earth, the things visible and the things invisible, whether they are thrones or lordships or governments or authorities. All other things have been created through him and for him.  Also, he is before all other things, and by means of him all other things were made to exist,

JW Interpretation: Jesus is the first created being, and then created everything else.

“Firstborn” refers to preeminence or rank, not literal birth (see Psalm 89:27).

The word “other” does not appear in the Greek text; it’s inserted to fit Watchtower doctrine.

Revelation 3:14 : “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation.

 

NWT : “To the angel of the congregation in La·o·di·ceʹa write: These are the things that the Amen says, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation by God.

JW Interpretation: Jesus was the first creation of God.

The Greek word archē (ἀρχή) means origin, ruler, or source — so Jesus is the originator of creation, not part of it.

John 1:3 – “All things were made through him…”

      

Romans 9:5   Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of the Messiah, who is God over all, forever praised! Amen.

NWT: To them the forefathers belong, and from them the Christ descended according to the flesh God, who is over all, be praised forever. Amen.

They restructure the sentence to prevent Christ from being called “God over all.”

But the Greek grammar most naturally applies “God over all” to Christ — even many non-Trinitarian scholars admit this.

       

John 14:14   “If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”

NWT: “If you ask anything in my name, I will do it.”

They omit “me”, which is in the majority of Greek manuscripts.

Because praying to Jesus contradicts their teaching that prayer is only to Jehovah.

      

Matthew 25:46  “And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

NWT: These will depart into everlasting cutting-off, but the righteous ones into everlasting life.”

Jehovah’s Witnesses deny the existence of Hell as conscious punishment

They soften “eternal punishment” into “cutting-off” — not a valid translation of the Greek word kolasis (which refers to punishment, not annihilation).

DEITY OF JESUS CHRIST

What do we believe about Jesus Christ? 

    -Jesus Christ is the second person of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

    -Jesus Christ is co-equal, co-eternal, and consubstantial (same essence) with the Father.

    -Jesus Christ was God manifested in flesh. He was both fully God and fully human. Jesus did not cease to be God when He became human.

 
Historical traces – Christian Groups denying the deity of Jesus Christ.
Ebionites (1st–2nd Century), Jewish-Christian sect. Denied Jesus’ divinity and virgin birth. Saw Jesus as a righteous man chosen by God, not pre-existent. They view Jesus as A human Messiah, adopted by God at baptism
Adoptionism (2nd–3rd Century): They Believed that Jesus was adopted as God's Son at His baptism or resurrection
Paul of Samosata (3rd Century): Denied Christ’s pre-existence.
Arianism (4th Century): Jesus (the Son) is not co-eternal with the Father. He is the first created being, through whom God made the world. There was a time when the Son was not.
Socinianism (16th–17th Century): Jesus did not pre-exist. Was a divinely appointed human teacher and moral example.
Unitarianism (17th–21st Century): God is one person, not three. Jesus is a great teacher, moral leader, and the Messiah, but not God.
 
Unitarians deny the deity of Jesus Christ
Unitarians - God is One (not three persons). They emphasizes the oneness of God, believing that God the Father is the sole supreme being. Jesus is God’s human son, born of a virgin, died and rose again but deny the Trinity and pre-existence of Christ.
 
Prominent unitarian groups today
Church of God General Conference (CoGGC)
Christian Disciples Church / Restoration Fellowship
The Church of God (Seventh Day)
Unitarian Christian Alliance (UCA)
Christadelphians
Spirit & Truth Fellowship International
Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship (UUCF)
 
Responses for the Unitarians’ arguments
Deuteronomy 6:4 – “The LORD is one.”
Unitarian Claim: This verse teaches strict, absolute monotheism, denying plurality in God.
Response: God is one in essence, but three in persons.
 
John 17:3 – “...the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus calls the Father the only true God, excluding Himself.
Response: Jesus is speaking in His incarnate human role, praying to the Father.
This verse does not exclude Jesus from deity; it identifies the Father as God without denying the Son’s divine nature.
 
1 Timothy 2:5 – “One God... and one mediator... the man Christ Jesus.”
Acts 2:22 – “Jesus, a man attested by God...” 
Unitarian Claim: Jesus is clearly identified as a man, not God. 
Response: Jesus is fully man and fully God. These verses reflect Jesus’ earthly ministry in His humanity. 
 
John 14:28 – “The Father is greater than I.”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus admits He is inferior to the Father.
Response: This refers to functional subordination during the incarnation. Jesus voluntarily humbled Himself (Philippians 2:6–8).

John 5:19 – “The Son can do nothing of Himself...”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus lacks divine independence or power.
Response: The verse shows Jesus' perfect unity and obedience with the Father, not inferiority.

     Mark 13:32 – “No one knows... not even the Son...”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus cannot be God if He is not omniscient.
Response: This reflects Jesus’ voluntary limitation in His humanity.
As the incarnate Son, Jesus did not always exercise His divine attributes (Phil 2:6–7). Post-resurrection, He declares all authority has been given to Him (Matt 28:18).
 
Luke 2:52 – “Jesus grew in wisdom...”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus grew in knowledge, which God cannot do.
Response: Jesus had a real human nature and experienced genuine human development. This verse reflects His human consciousness, not a denial of His divine nature. His divine nature was united to His human nature without confusion.
 
Romans 5:8 – “Christ died for us.”
Unitarian Claim: God cannot die; therefore, Jesus is not God.
Response: Jesus died in His human nature, not His divine nature (which is eternal). Death is separation of the soul from the body, not annihilation. Jesus is God who took on flesh precisely so He could die for our sins (Hebrews 2:14).

    John 20:17 – “I ascend to my God and your God.”
Unitarian Claim: Jesus has a God—therefore, He cannot be God.
Response: In His human nature, Jesus rightly calls the Father “my God.”
 
Jesus did not claim that He is God

     Unitarian Claim:  Nowhere in the Bible does Jesus say the words ‘I am God.’ 
Response: Jesus used first-century Jewish expressions to communicate His identity. John 8:58 – “Before Abraham was, I AM” – an allusion to Exodus 3:14, claiming God's name. John 10:30–33 – “I and the Father are one.” Jews tried to stone Him for blasphemy—they understood what He was claiming.
 
Jesus had limitations

    Unitarian Claim: Jesus' limitations prove he was only human. God cannot be tempted or die.
Response: Jesus is both fully God and fully man (hypostatic union).
His human nature could be tempted and could die, but His divine nature remained unchanged.
 
Deity of Christ was invented by early church.

     Unitarian Claim: “The early Church invented the deity of Christ.”
Response: Earliest sources (e.g., Paul’s letters, written within 20 years of the crucifixion) affirm Jesus’ deity. Philippians 2:6–11 – Jesus was “in the form of God” but took human form. 
 
Jesus Prayed

     Unitarian Claim: “Jesus prayed to the Father—how can He be God?”
Response: As the God-Man, Jesus prayed in His humanity (Philippians 2:6–8).

      Son of God not God
Unitarian Claim: “Jesus is called ‘Son of God,’ not God.”
Response: In Jewish context, Son of God meant equality with God (John 5:18).
 
Evidences for the divinity of Jesus Christ

      1. Pre-existence of Jesus  Christ
The following verses claim the pre-existence of Jesus Christ
 
John 1:1–3 – In the beginning was the Word.
John 3:13 - No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven—the Son of Man.
John 6:38 - For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.  This is a clear claim of heavenly origin.
John 6:51 - I am the living bread that came down from heaven.
John 8:23 - You are from below; I am from above.
John 17:5 – “Glorify me… with the glory I had with you before the world began.”
Philippians 2:6–7 – “Though He was in the form of God, He did not consider equality with God something to be grasped…”
1 Peter 1:19–20 – “...a lamb without blemish… foreknown before the foundation of the world...”Indicating eternity and pre-existence, a divine attribute.
 
2. Incarnation of Jesus Christ
Incarnation refers to the eternal Son of God taking on human nature. The following verses convey the incarnation (God becoming flesh to save humanity)

     Matthew 1:18–25 - Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit, not through natural means. This shows that Jesus’ origin is divine
Luke 1:35 – The angel tells Mary: “The Holy Spirit will come upon you… the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.”
Luke 2:11 – The angels announce: “A Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” The title “Lord” (Kyrios) often refers to Yahweh in the Greek Old Testament. Luke uses it for Jesus, suggesting divine status.
John 1:1,14 - The Word was God… and became flesh
Philippians 2:5–11: Christ humbled Himself and took the form of a servant
Colossians 2:9 - In Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.
Hebrews 2:14–17 : He shared in our humanity
Isaiah 7:14 / Matthew 1:23:  “Immanuel” – God with us
 
3. Works of Jesus Christ proved His divinity
 
Jesus Christ had power over nature
-Turning water into wine : John 2:1–11    
-Calming the storm : Matthew 8:23–27; Mark 4:35–41; Luke 8:22–25               
-Feeding 5,000 : Matthew 14:13–21; Mark 6:30–44; Luke 9:10–17; John 6:1–14

      -Walking on water : Matthew 14:22–33; Mark 6:45–52; John 6:16–21                
-Feeding 4,000  : Matthew 15:32–39; Mark 8:1–10     
-Withering the fig tree : Matthew 21:18–22; Mark 11:12–14, 20–25
-Large catch of fish : Luke 5:1–11; John 21:1–14 
 
Jesus Christ healed all kinds of sickness
-Healing the leper : Matthew 8:1–4; Mark 1:40–45; Luke 5:12–16
-Healing a centurion’s servant : Matthew 8:5–13; Luke 7:1–10
-Healing Peter’s mother-in-law : Matthew 8:14–15; Mark 1:29–31; Luke 4:38–39
-Healing a paralytic : Matthew 9:1–8; Mark 2:1–12; Luke 5:17–26
-Healing a man with a withered hand : Matthew 12:9–14; Mark 3:1–6; Luke 6:6–11
-Healing a woman with bleeding : Matthew 9:20–22; Mark 5:25–34; Luke 8:43–48
-Healing a deaf and mute man : Mark 7:31–37
-Healing a blind man (Bethsaida): Mark 8:22–26
-Healing a man born blind : John 9:1–12
-Healing ten lepers : Luke 17:11–19
 
Jesus Christ casted out demons
-Casting out demon in synagogue : Mark 1:21–28; Luke 4:31–37
-Healing a demon-possessed mute : Matthew 9:32–34
-Healing the Gerasene demoniac (Legion) : Matthew 8:28–34; Mark 5:1–20; Luke 8:26–39
-Healing a boy with a demon : Matthew 17:14–21; Mark 9:14–29; Luke 9:37–43
-Healing a Syrophoenician woman's daughter : Matthew 15:21–28; Mark 7:24–30
 
Jesus Christ raised dead persons
-Raising Jairus’ daughter : Matthew 9:18–26; Mark 5:21–43; Luke 8:40–56
-Raising the widow’s son (Nain) : Luke 7:11–17
-Raising Lazarus :  John 11:1–44
 
4. Jesus Christ displayed divine nature in His suffering
 
Jesus willingly submitted to suffering.
John 10:17–18 : “I lay down my life… No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of My own accord.” He predicted His arrest and death repeatedly (e.g., Matthew 16:21, Mark 10:33–34).
 
Jesus’ Divine Authority During Trial and Death
-Before the Sanhedrin, Jesus declares: Matthew 26:64 – “You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.”  This is a direct reference to Daniel 7:13–14, a divine figure worshiped by all nations.
-At the cross: Luke 23:43 – “Today you will be with Me in paradise.” Only God can grant entry into eternal life.
-Jesus dies by His own will: John 19:30 – “He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” He chose the moment of His death, showing divine command over life and death.
 
Cosmic Signs Confirm His Identity.
Several supernatural events occur at His death:
-Darkness over the land (Matthew 27:45) : Symbol of divine judgment or mourning
-Veil torn in the temple (Matthew 27:51) : Symbol of access to God's presence through Christ
-Earthquake & raised dead (Matthew 27:51–53) : Divine power breaking into the natural world
 
Confession of the Centurion
Mark 15:39 – A Roman centurion, seeing how Jesus died, says: “Truly this man was the Son of God!” Ironically, Jesus' divinity is recognized in his suffering and death
 
5. Jesus displayed divine nature in His resurrection and ascension
The divinity of Jesus Christ is most powerfully and unmistakably revealed through His resurrection from the dead. Romans 1:4. “...who through the Spirit of holiness was declared to be the Son of God in power by His resurrection from the dead—Jesus Christ our Lord.” The resurrection publicly declared what Jesus claimed all along: He is God’s Son with divine authority and power.
 
Jesus Predicted His Own Resurrection.
John 2:19 – “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
Mark 8:31; Luke 9:22; Matthew 16:21 – Repeated predictions. None can predict His own death and resurrection with such certainty unless He had divine knowledge and authority. Jesus’ control over His resurrection affirms His divine omniscience and sovereignty.
 
Jesus Raises Himself
John 10:17–18 “I lay down My life that I may take it up again... I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again.” Jesus claims to have the power over life and death, a power that belongs to God alone (cf. 1 Samuel 2:6).
 
The Exalted Christ After Resurrection
After rising, Jesus is described in divine terms:
-Worshipped by disciples (Matthew 28:9,17), which only God should receive.
-All authority in heaven and earth is given to Him (Matthew 28:18).
-Declared Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36).
-Seated at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19; Hebrews 1:3).
-Jesus Is Enthroned at the Right Hand of God Acts 2:33–36
  
ARGUMENTS FOR THE DEITY OF JESUS CHRIST
1. Names of Yahweh in Old Testament applied to Jesus Christ
John 8:58 – “Before Abraham was, I AM.” (echoes Exodus 3:14)
Revelation 22:13 (echoes Revelation 1:8 where God says it)
 
2. Jesus performed Divine Works 
In Jewish thought, only God creates, forgives sin, receives worship, and judges the world.
Creation: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16 – All things were created through Him
Forgiveness of sins: Mark 2:5–7 – Only God can forgive sins; Jesus does it
Judgment: John 5:22 – The Father has entrusted all judgment to the Son
Gives life: John 5:21, John 11:25 – Has authority to raise the dead
Accepts worship: Matthew 14:33, John 9:38, Hebrews 1:6
 
3. Jesus was called God.
John 1:1 - “The Word was God”
John 20:28 - “My Lord and my God” – Thomas speaking to Jesus
Titus 2:13 - “Our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ”
Hebrews 1:8 - “Your throne, O God…” (quoting Psalm 45, applied to Jesus)
1 John 5:20 - “Jesus Christ… this is the true God and eternal life.”
 
4. Jesus Claimed Equality with the Father
John 10:30 – “I and the Father are one.”
John 5:18 – The Jews tried to kill Him “because He was… making Himself equal with God.”
John 14:9 – “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”
 
5. Jesus Is the Image and Fullness of God.
Jesus as having the very nature and fullness of God, not merely a reflection
Colossians 1:15 – “He is the image of the invisible God…”
Colossians 2:9 – “In Christ all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form.”
Hebrews 1:3 – “He is the radiance of God’s glory and exact representation of His being.”
 
6. Jesus Was Worshiped
Worship of anyone but God is idolatry in Judaism; Jesus being worshiped implies divinity. Matthew 28:17, John 9:38, Revelation 5:12–14. In the NT, angels and apostles reject worship (Acts 10:25–26, Revelation 19:10), but Jesus accepts it
 
7. Old Testament Prophecies Identify the Messiah as God
Isaiah 9:6 – “Mighty God, Everlasting Father” ...Applies to the coming Messiah
Malachi 3:1 – “The Lord you seek will come to His temple” Fulfilled in Christ entering the temple
 
8. Early Christian Worship and Confessions
Philippians 2:9–11 – Every tongue will confess Jesus is Lord (Kyrios) – a title used for Yahweh in Isaiah 45
1 Corinthians 8:6 – One God, the Father… and one Lord, Jesus Christ — seen as a reformulation of the Shema with Jesus included
Baptismal formula – “in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” (Matt. 28:19)
 
9. Jesus' Resurrection and Ascension Confirm His Deity
Romans 1:4 – Declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection
Acts 2:36 – “God has made Him both Lord and Christ”
Ephesians 1:20–22 – Seated at God’s right hand, above all authority and name