Editorial Team
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the realest Jesus of them all? Hold onto your loaves and fishes, folks, because it seems there’s more than one person out there claiming to be the big J.C. himself. Here’s a look at some noteworthy individuals who’ve asserted that they’re a one-man Second Coming.
Sergei Torop
This former Russian traffic cop-turned-spiritual leader led a religious sect called the Church of the Last Testament. He claimed to be the reincarnation of Jesus, which probably didn’t do wonders for his record on traffic tickets. Known as “Vissarion” to his followers, Torop and two of his associates were arrested in 2020 on charges of extortion and subjecting his followers to physical and psychological harm.
Jim Jones
Not content with just a glass of wine, this American preacher made a whole lot of Kool-Aid. Founder of the People’s Temple, he didn’t exactly claim to be Jesus, but his followers thought he was a reincarnation. Tragically, it ended with the Jonestown Massacre.
David Shayler
This ex-MI5 agent traded in his spy gadgets for a Messiah mantle. Claiming to be Jesus, he offered a spiritual path that likely didn’t include any secret handshakes or invisible ink.
Inri Cristo
With a name like Inri, it’s a good start, right? This Brazilian astrologer has been claiming to be Jesus since 1979. With flowing hair and robes, he’s nailed the look if not the credentials.
Mitsuo Matayoshi
This Japanese politician decided that being a Prime Minister wasn’t enough, and he claimed to be Jesus. He even founded the World Economic Community Party. It’s not quite turning water into wine, but it’s ambitious.
