For many, becoming a follower of Jesus Christ means a change of who they think Jesus Christ is.

Some perceive Jesus as just a good man, a good teacher or even as a prophet sent from God. That kind of perception will not gain forgiveness, peace or eternal life.

The only way to receive these is by believing that Jesus is who he claimed to be — the Son of God and Savior of the world.

We see this transition from one kind of belief to another played out in the lives of the 12 disciples in Scripture. For example, in Matthew 8:27, after Jesus calms the storm, they said, "What kind of man is this? Even the winds and waves obey him."

Then later in chapter 16, verse 13, we find Peter saying these words describing who Jesus was: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Again, we see Thomas’ change of attitude in John 20:28 where he declares, "My Lord and my God."

The question is, how do you perceive Jesus, who is he to you? Is he just a man in history, or is he your Savior and Lord? It makes a huge difference because your eternal destiny depends on your perception of who he really is.