Alright, let’s dive into a question that pops up at times: “Who is God’s favorite?” It’s a loaded question. It hints at divine favoritism. But the answer is more nuanced than a simple “yes” or “no.”
Jesus: The Original “Son of God”
If we think of favorites in the divine context, we must start with Jesus. The New Testament hinges on the “Son of God” concept. Matthew’s gospel emphasizes this idea. If God had a phone plan, Jesus would definitely be on a family plan.
Think biblical for a moment. Remember Jesus’ baptism in Matthew 3:17? God announces from the heavens that Jesus is his Son. In Matthew 17:5, God reinforces this. It’s as if God says, “This is my guy, pay attention.” Even demons and Satan acknowledge his status.
Now, about Jesus’ name. It’s rooted in Hebrew. “Yeshua” (ישוע) is the original form, changing to “Joshua” in English. Greeks adopted it as “Iēsous” (Ἰησοῦς), and it became the “Jesus” known today. “Yeshua” itself means “God saves.” That shows the depth right from the name.
Theology elevates Jesus further as the “firstborn of all creation,” and “only begotten son of God.” This isn’t merely birth order. It’s preeminence and being the ultimate image of God. Picture him as the CEO and heart of the whole venture.
A quote sums it well: “Christ Jesus, the Son of God, is both God and Man.” He is God before all worlds and man in our world. As the only Son, he embodies grace. He possesses both divine and human nature. Quite a package.
For history aficionados, Christian tradition locates the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem as Jesus’ burial spot. It’s worth visiting for those curious about resurrection history.
A scripture states, “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” Powerful stuff. It is followed by, “These things I wrote to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know you have eternal life.” The message is clear: Jesus is crucial for eternal life.
Do you ponder Jesus praying to God? It goes beyond theology. It connects to the Trinity and to Incarnation. His humanity hinges on divinity allowing him to pray. It is a divine conversation within himself and reaching out.
Don’t forget divine endorsements. God declares, “This is my beloved Son.” No room for misinterpretation. He adds, “Hear Him!” When Jesus preps for his “passion,” he prays, “Father, glorify Your name.” God answers audibly: “I have glorified it and will glorify it again.”
A scripture from the Book of Mormon echoes this viewpoint. God the Eternal Father declares, “Behold my Beloved Son…” Making it even more theatrical, they saw Jesus descend from heaven in white robes.
Love for All: God’s “No Favoritism”
After the “Son of God” talk, you might conclude Jesus is the favorite. But wait. There’s a twist. The divine narrative suggests God doesn’t pick favorites. His love extends to everyone – saints and sinners alike.
The official stance is firm: “God shows no favoritism.” It’s inclusive and egalitarian. Then whispers arise: “Who is God’s favorite? It’s you.” Taken literally, it implies everyone is favored, making the concept meaningless.
The point is to mirror God’s character. We must love like God loves. When we do so, we reveal our faith and God’s nature. It isn’t about a star pupil but aligning ourselves to be more God-like in love.
Divine Family Complexity
So maybe “favorite” is too simplistic. Let’s consider other figures in this divine context. We have to mention Lucifer. He was once a favored angel before his fall from grace.
In Christian lore, Lucifer’s origin is clear: “Lucifer’s father is God.” God created Lucia, but their relationship soured due to pride and rebellion. It’s a classic tale of hubris leading to downfall.
Outside Judeo-Christian contexts, we find Apollo. “Apollo: Best-Known Son of Zeus.” Among Zeus’ many offspring, Apollo holds a prime position. He is god of music, poetry, light, and archery. That counts as significant in divine issues.
In Hinduism, we meet Indra, King of the Gods. He governs thunder and lightning and rules heaven. Indra commands respect in divine circles, holding an impressive title in Hindu mythology.
Biblical All-Stars: Humans with Divine Connection
Let’s refocus on biblical humans who gained favor from God. These aren’t necessarily favorites but had unique connections with the divine.
First up, “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” In John’s Gospel, the author uses this title for himself. Who is he? Tradition points to John the Apostle. Modest title given! Referring to yourself as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.”
disciple whom Jesus loved.” It’s like placing a superlative in the yearbook.
Evidence suggests John is the “disciple whom Jesus loved.” He was present at key events like the Last Supper, Crucifixion, and the empty tomb. John was there for the best moments, holding the VIP pass of the apostolic crowd.
The Gospels do not name a “closest friend,” but Lazarus of Bethany is a strong contender. He was close to Jesus, loved alongside Martha and Mary. Lazarus is often singled out. Jesus raised him from the dead. Example of friendship goals right there.
Here’s a list of biblical figures who gained favor with God: “Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, The Israelites, Gideon, Samuel, David.” Noah built the ark. Abraham fathered nations. Joseph interpreted dreams. Moses led the people. David was king and psalmist. They had direct access to divine favor.
Then there’s Peter. He was a fisherman, later an apostle. “Peter started as a simple fisherman. Jesus saw potential in him. He sensed Peter’s willingness to serve God. In the Gospels, Peter stands out.” Peter was impulsive, denied Jesus, and became the church’s cornerstone. Divine favor can be mysterious.
Even young Samuel gets acknowledgment. “The LORD called Samuel three times, and he went to Eli. Eli understood that…” Samuel heard God’s call as a child. Prophets often receive divine recognition, a typical case for Samuel.
Guru Status and Divine Sacrifice: Peeling Back the Layers
Let’s discuss philosophy and theology. In Hinduism, a Guru holds high regard. “The Guru, a teacher, is considered greater than God in Hinduism.” Greater than God is a notable claim. The Guru’s position is important, sometimes viewed as surpassing deities in reverence. It’s an interesting twist on divine hierarchy.
Then there’s the notion of “beating” God. “This concept explores the limits of power and nature of divinity.” “Beating” God sounds blasphemous. It’s about exploring free will and omnipotence, not a real fight with the Almighty. A thought experiment more than anything.
Christian theology brings forth divine sacrifice. “God sacrificed his son, Jesus, to atone for sins, showing love and justice.” The act of sacrificing a son dramatizes love and justice. It demonstrates divine generosity and creates theological discussions.
Now we consider Jesus praying. “Jesus’ prayer to the Father is due to the Trinity and the incarnation. His humanity depends on his divinity, enabling prayer to God.” This shows that even as divine, Jesus had human elements. He demonstrates the capacity for prayer within the divine family.
Random Divine Trivia: Fun Facts for Your Next Theology Pub Quiz
Let’s end with some fun facts that may assist in a theology quiz.
Do you know Jesus’ name in Hebrew? “Jesus’ name in Hebrew was ‘Yeshua’ (ישוע).” Perfect for impressing someone at a gathering.
Ever wonder about the soldier who pierced Jesus’ side? “In John, “one of the soldiers” pierced his side but his name is not mentioned. Later traditions identify him as St. Longinus.” The Bible remains silent on his name, but tradition offers posthumous fame.
Does God have a favorite color? “The idea of God having a ‘favorite color’ is not stated in texts, though blue and green often symbolize God.” No official colors exist, but blue and green resonate in religious symbolism. If you decorate God’s space, consider those shades.
Did Jesus have a last name? “Jesus did not have a last name.” Just “Jesus.” It’s a first-name basis.
Finally, when was Jesus born? “The exact date of Jesus’ birth is not stated clearly. Most scholars believe he was born between 6 and 4 BC.” Scholars guess the timing. Christmas in December is more tradition than fact. But traditions hold value, right?
So, “Who is God’s favorite?” Perhaps the answer lies not in a person but in love itself. God’s “favorite” could mean love extended to all, especially those showcasing divine traits. It’s complicated, messy, far from a simple answer. That complexity makes theology endlessly intriguing.
