Jesus has questions about Himself, but He doesn’t ask from a lack of self-knowledge. He asks from a place of teaching, from a place of loving concern, and from a desire to connect with the disciples. Jesus lived His life in constant unity with the Father. He was fully human and yet fully divine, with a strong sense of purpose and identity. One day, after feeding the massive crowd, Jesus was praying, and only the disciples were with Him. Imagine Him asking them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?”
It’s so easy to glean from the internet that the online crowd sees Christ through the actions of Christians. From my timeline, He is a harsh judge who turns His back on the plight of women and children in war-torn countries. But, only those who dwell in His presence get the most accurate view of who He is.
When the disciples responded to Jesus, they gave three possible answers, all regarding godly people,
they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” Luke 9:19
Godly people who lived life with integrity and honor exemplified Christ back in His day.
My word for this year is ‘Alignment,’ and being in line with God and His will for my life is my aim for 2024. Jesus asked a second question of the disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” my answer, I’ve decided, would be similar to Peter’s,
Peter replied, “You are the Messiah sent from God!”“
Luke 9:20 NLT
I say, “You are the Redeemer sent to us from the Most High God.” Jesus is not fully reflected in the actions and thought lives of the world. His identity is in the Holy Scriptures. As we read and reflect on the questions Jesus asked we gain insight into what lessons He has for us.
Who do the crowds say that I am?
We must know Him, live lives in alignment with Him, so others may know Him. Dear one, do you know Him? My prayer is that we’ll dwell in the Word throughout this week so that we can know Him more!