Muhammad
Muslims often argue that Jesus cannot be God because the Bible refers to Him as a human and not divine.
Quick answer
The Christian response emphasizes that the Bible contains passages where the king of Israel is referred to as divine, indicating a shared glory with God. This suggests that Jesus, as the exalted king, holds a unique divine status that does not equate Him with God the Father but affirms His divinity.
Full argument
Bart D. Ehrman, a noted biblical scholar, highlights that the Hebrew Bible refers to the king of Israel in divine terms, suggesting a level of divinity that is not absolute but rather a shared honor with God. For instance, Psalm 110:1 indicates that the king is invited to sit at God's right hand, sharing in divine glory and authority. This concept of exaltation is crucial in understanding how early followers of Jesus perceived His divine nature after His resurrection. They recognized Him as the Messiah who was exalted to the heavenly realm, affirming His role as the future king. Thus, while Jesus is fully human, He is also fully divine, as supported by scripture and early Christian belief.
Key verses
Psalm 110:1bible
The LORD says to my Lord, 'Sit at my right hand...'
John 1:1bible
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Philippians 2:9-11bible
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name...
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- The Shahadah should only declare the oneness of Allah without mentioning Muhammad, as the Quran does not require the latter.
- The blessings upon Ishmael in Genesis confirm the prophethood of Muhammad since he is the only prophet descended from him.