How Old Is God and Jesus?
The concept of age in relation to divine beings differs significantly from the way we perceive age for mortals.
God's Age: Eternal and Timeless
In various religious and spiritual traditions, God is often described as eternal or timeless. This means that God's existence is not bound by the linear progression of time that we experience. God is considered to have always existed and will continue to exist without beginning or end.
For example, in the Christian tradition, God is known as the "Alpha and Omega," the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13). This suggests that God's existence transcends the limitations of time.
Jesus' Age: Historical and Incarnational
In contrast to God, Jesus Christ, as a historical figure, had a specific lifespan on Earth. According to the Christian tradition, Jesus was born around 4-6 BCE and was crucified around 30-33 CE. This gives him an estimated lifespan of approximately 30-33 years.
However, it's important to note that the Gospels, the primary sources of information about Jesus' life, do not provide precise dates for his birth or death.
Implications for Faith
The difference in age between God and Jesus has implications for understanding their relationship and the nature of salvation.
- God's Eternal Nature: God's eternality implies that he is the source and sustainer of all creation, including the temporal world. He is not subject to the same limitations and experiences of time as mortals.
- Jesus' Historical Incarnation: Jesus' specific lifespan on Earth emphasizes his role as a historical figure who lived, died, and resurrected. His human experience allows him to relate to and redeem mortals.
- Salvation Through Christ: The Christian belief that Jesus is both divine and human allows for the concept of salvation. By becoming incarnate, Jesus bridges the gap between God's eternity and human mortality, offering redemption for sins and the promise of eternal life.
The concept of age in relation to God and Jesus is a complex and multifaceted topic. God's eternal nature and Jesus' historical incarnation are two distinct but interconnected aspects of the Christian faith. Understanding these differences helps us grasp the divine-human relationship and the significance of Jesus' role in salvation.