There are those who are apparently quite willing to acknowledge that Jesus was a good man, a great spiritual teacher, and a prophet of the first order, but who do not recognize his Messiahship. This is particularly true of those whose views are shaped largely, if not entirely, by Old Testament theology.
Christian Science teaches that the Messiahship of Jesus was that which distinguished him from all other spiritual teachers, and that not only was it foretold by the Hebrew prophets, but it was established by his teachings and his works. Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, writing on this subject on page 131 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," says: "The mission of Jesus confirmed prophecy, and explained the so-called miracles of olden time as natural demonstrations of the divine power, demonstrations which were not understood. Jesus' works established his claim to the Messiahship."
John the Baptist, who proclaimed the coming of the Messiah, subsequently questioned the Messiahship. Nevertheless, he is recorded in the Gospel of Luke as having previously said, "I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire." And it is further stated that at the time Christ Jesus was baptized by John "a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased."
