Appendix B: Key Gospel Passages for Apologetics

Jesus's Identity Claims

• John 8:58 — Before Abraham came into existence, I am!
• John 10:30 — The Father and I are one
• John 14:6 — I am the way, and the truth, and the life
• John 10:9 — I am the door; whoever enters through me will be saved
• Mark 14:62 — At His trial: I am (citing Daniel 7:13)
• Matthew 28:18 — All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me

The Atonement and Resurrection

• Isaiah 53:5–6 — Suffering Servant prophecy, 700 years before the crucifixion
• 1 Corinthians 15:3–8 — Paul's early resurrection creed with 500 named witnesses
• Romans 5:8 — While we were still sinners, Christ died for us
• Matthew 27:52–53 — The dead rising in Jerusalem after the resurrection

Salvation and the Holy Spirit

• John 17:3 — Eternal life as knowing God, present tense
• Ephesians 2:8–9 — Saved by grace through faith, not works
• Romans 8:1 — No condemnation for those in Christ
• Romans 8:38–39 — Nothing can separate us from God's love
• 1 John 4:18 — Perfect love drives out fear

The Descent into Hell

• Matthew 27:52–53 — Holy people rising from tombs after the resurrection
• 1 Peter 3:18–20 — Christ made proclamation to the imprisoned spirits
• Revelation 1:18 — I hold the keys of death and Hades