“The details might be different today, but our culture tends to make Jesus something less than the Son of God too. People may regard him as a moral teacher or a wise guru or someone who inspired hospitals and charity work. But people tend to squirm when we talk about him being the only way to the Father.”- Kyle Idleman and Mark E. Moore
“If then David calls [the Messiah] ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?” No one would say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask [Jesus] any more questions.”- Matthew 22:45-46 (NIV)
Today, Kyle Idleman and Mark E. Moore discuss the sixth passage the New Testament uses to form a portrait of the Messiah. Matthew 22:41-46 serves as the text.
6. Christ revealed to the Pharisees. On Tuesday of Holy Week, Jesus stood in the Temple, at the center of the turmoil. Because some of the major religious factions of Jesus’ day accosted Him with questions. But their attempts to trap Him failed. Consequently, Jesus asked them a question.
Certainly, not a difficult one to answer. Hence, in Matthew 22:42, Jesus asked whose Son the Messiah is. The leaders answered correctly; “The son of David.”
Above all, Jesus’ question carried this implication. That Jesus was not just the son of David. He was the Son of God. A conclusion the Pharisees dared not let see the light of day.
In conclusion, Kyle and Mark explain:
“Now that Jesus was so close to his death, it was time to openly and publicly claim to be the Messiah — not just the son of David but the Son of God. His obedience through sacrifice and resurrection would demonstrate that he was God’s Messiah.”
Today’s question: How do you respond when people make Jesus something less than the Son of God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Jesus defined Messiah clearly”
Stupidly, I might have tiptoed in order to not offend or lose my job, to keep peace. Gradually, I drifted from the truth, listening to my own ignorance. I am aware, awareness is growth. Jesus Christ is the only way, He is the truth and the light.
Scripture fuels my soul, read aloud when it’s difficult for me to always comprehend. He opens my brain to the Holy Spirit within me when I ask for help.