Throughout this world's history it is a common aspect, when concerning the way in which one views Jesus Christ, to view him as simply a solely divine being in which his human character is easily overshadowed. As a Christian I hold the belief that Jesus was indeed fully human as well as fully divine. In some thoughts, however it seems that it is essentially easier to connect Jesus to the thelogical aspect that he portrays in such a genuine fashion. However there still lies this key aspect, his human nature, that is also an important portion of who Jesus is, not only to me and what I believe but in our world as well. In order to analyze this aspect it is appropriate to recognize the human characteristics that Jesus exemplified in that specific time. These characteristics not only highlighted who Jesus was at that time but it assists in His mission also. It is important to begin with his childhood and how he was raised. Jesus was the son of Mary and Joseph, who was a carpenter in those days. He was raised as a Jew which was a common belief in Jesus' lifetime. This is the first instance in which we see his humaness firsthand, as he shares the common religion and is simply raised in that fashion as other young ones were. However, the effort that he presented may have been "out of the ordinary" when it comes to a young child. An example of this would be when he journeyed throughout a small town (away from the protection of his family) and began to teach the Word fluently. His humaness was still present howver, as he was still one who was under the wing of his mother and upon her finding oh Jesus, she became deeply worried and angry when she found him. In later years as Jesus grew in his ministry, this in addition, was an example of growing in his humanity. This is similar to that of O'Malleys "Understanding of Jesus," in that it too describes how "full humanity is achieved by growing" (p.76). To further say that Jesus is fully human is to also say that He suffered, had to overcome obstacles and temptation as we do today. In my thoughts Jesus clearly suffered externally but internally as well. An example of this internal suffering may have occured when he became aware of the "temple profiteers" (Understanding Jesus p.73). He suffered with the fact that individuals were bold enough to gain money in a holy atmosphere, which led to another aspect of humaness that he portrayed, anger. In Jesus' anger he turned over tables and scolded the profiteers. This is yet another example of how Jesus portrays humanity. He also had to overcome various obstacles each day in dealing with the unbelievers and challengers. An example of this would be when the Pharisees scold and question Him, as well as his claimed purpose, after realizing that Jesus dined with individuals who they felt should be overlooked. This is similar to some individuals today, who are teased or tormented, when they spend their time relating to others who are less fortunate and in time of need. Another common human obstacle is that of temptation. A clear and obvious example of Jesus'temptation is when he was tempted in the desert by satan. This is similar to us today as we are tempted to do wrong even though it may introduce rich material goods. The greatest form of humanity which is an important aspect in my faith, is the one that Jesus willingly accepted and acted upon. This was his crucifixion at the cross. This was the greatest form of human character as it showed humbleness, ultimate faith, love and trust in his heavenly Father. Therefore, I concur that Jesus was not only fully divine in his image but fully human as well due to the fact that he provided the greatest example of what it means to live one's life as humans.

Jesus Weeping


Human Jesus