Jesus
(8–2 BC/BCE to 29–36 AD/CE),[1] also known as Jesus of Nazareth,
the Messiah, and other names is the central figure of Christianity.
He is commonly referred to as Jesus Christ, where "Christ"
is a Greek-derived title meaning "Anointed One" which corresponds
to the Hebrew-derived "Messiah".
The
main sources of information regarding Jesus' life and teachings
are the four canonical Gospels of the New Testament: Matthew,
Mark, Luke, and John. Most scholars in the fields of biblical
studies and history agree that Jesus was a Jewish teacher
from Galilee, who was regarded as a healer, was baptized
by John the Baptist, and was crucified in Jerusalem on orders
of the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate under the accusation
of sedition against the Roman Empire. A small minority of
scholars question the historical existence of Jesus.
Christian views of Jesus, though diverse and complex, center
on the belief in Jesus as the Messiah or Christ promised
in the Old Testament and in his resurrection after his crucifixion.
Most Christians believe in Jesus as the Son of God sent
to provide salvation and reconciliation with God by atoning
for the sins of humanity. Most Christians are Trinitarian
and believe that Jesus is God incarnate, while Nontrinitarian
Christians adopt various other interpretations regarding
the divinity of Jesus. The area of study concerning these
issues is known as Christology. Other beliefs shared by
most Christians include his Virgin Birth, his ascension
into Heaven and his future Second Coming. Most Christians
also believe that Jesus performed miracles and fulfilled
biblical prophecy.
