As we step into the pages of the New Testament, we’re doing so after 400 years of silence. God has been silent since Malachi’s last prophecies; no prophets speaking for God, no prophets, foretelling God’s Upper Story, only silence, until now. God uses four separate authors (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) to introduce us to the next main character- Jesus; the illegitimate son of Mary and Joseph, or is He?
As Jesus begins His public ministry people are wondering about this new rabbi- who is this guy? He’s a different kind of rabbi, teacher, than they’re used to. He came to the ordinary (fishermen), the outcasts (Samaritans, women, children). He came to the rejected (lepers), and the despised (tax collectors and sinners).
He disregarded many of the customary religious laws that defined proper Jewish behavior; He put people before laws. Who is this guy?
He spoke with authority; “When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law.”
He had miraculous power to heal, forgive, and raise the dead. Who is this guy? His compassion knew no limits, His kindness flowed freely.
Who is this guy who talks with a Samaritan woman?
In a day when women were 2nd class citizens- at best and Samaritans were detested by Jews; most would not associate with them; not so with Jesus; He breaks the rabbi mold.
Who is this guy who turns water into wine- really good wine?
Who is this guy who heals all manner of sickness and disease?
Who is this guy who liberates the demonized? And sets captives free
Who is this guy who restores the paralyzed?
Who is this guy who forgives sins?
That was the big question for the religious leaders- who does this guy think He is forgiving sin- only God can forgive sin. (see Luke 5:20-26)
People today may answer, “Jesus is a moral leader, a good teacher, a prophet sent by God.” But who is He according to the testimony of those who met Him?
The witnesses make it pretty clear-
God the Father said- “This is my beloved Son…”
John the Baptist said “Behold the Lamb of God”
John also called Jesus “God’s Chosen One”
Andrew called Him “The Christ”
Philip said He was “…the One Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote…” (God’s promised Redeemer)
The Samaritan women called Him a prophet… “who told me everything I had ever done. Could this be the Messiah.” To which Jesus replied “I am He”
Her friends said “…we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”
Do you believe He is who they say He is? What steps will you take to align your life with what you believe? What does it mean in your everyday life that He is who He says He is?
He is so much more than a good teacher, a moral leader, or a prophet sent by God. And who He is can dramatically change your life.
