Why is it important for Christians to understand Jesus as one with the Father?

Recognizing Jesus as one with the Father is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, which is fundamental to the Christian faith. This unity underscores the belief that Jesus possesses the same divine nature as God the Father, allowing Christians to rest in the assurance that He is capable of fulfilling the promises of salvation. Moreover, if Jesus is not fully divine, His sacrifice would not be sufficient to atone for the sins of humanity. Therefore, acknowledging His divine nature reassures believers of the efficacy of His work on the cross, and His capacity to give eternal life, as stated in John 10:28, 'I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.' The integrity of the Christian faith ultimately hinges on the recognition of Jesus’ identity as both fully God and fully man.