We can admire Jesus and still resist what He reveals about Himself.
“But who do you say that I am?”. Mark 8:29 • Read Mark 8:27–38
Who do you say I am?
A good man. A wise teacher. Someone who cared for others.
These descriptions recognise something real about Jesus. Yet admiration can leave His identity unexplored.
Different worldviews honour aspects of His life while disagreeing profoundly about His divinity, death and resurrection. We should listen respectfully to what people believe, then give Jesus’ own testimony our attention.
The question reaches inside the church too. Familiarity with His name does not mean we have understood Him fully. Only God knows each heart; we stand together beneath His searching Word.
In Mark 8, Peter identifies Jesus as the Christ. Then Jesus speaks of His coming suffering, death and resurrection. Peter rebukes Him.
He gives the right answer, yet resists what Jesus says it means.
Which Jesus am I following?
We too can welcome His comfort while resisting His correction. We may admire His generosity while protecting our possessions, or celebrate His forgiveness while refusing to forgive.
Honest questions are part of learning. The searching issue is whether we remain willing to be taught.
Am I allowing Jesus to shape my understanding and life, or accepting only what fits the life I already want?
Paul warns a church about another Jesus, a different spirit and a different gospel (2 Corinthians 11:3–4). His concern is their sincere, undivided devotion to Christ.
Our devotion is to be undivided, and the Lord we receive cannot be divided into acceptable and unacceptable portions.
His words, actions and character belong together. When Scripture challenges my picture of Him, will I reconsider that picture?
What did Jesus say about Himself?
Listen again to Jesus.
He claims authority to forgive sins (Mark 2:10).
He says He gives His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45).
He is the good shepherd who knows His sheep and lays down His life for them (John 10:11–15).
He declares Himself the resurrection and the life, and the way to the Father (John 11:25; 14:6). His words about His existence before Abraham and His unity with the Father challenge any picture of Him as merely an admirable man (John 8:58; 10:30).
Behold the One who speaks. His authority and tenderness belong together. The Lord who searches us gives Himself for us.
Ephesians 4:20 speaks of learning Christ. We are invited to know Him, trust Him and let His truth change our lives.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, correct the pictures we have formed. Forgive our selective hearing. Draw our friends and us into the joy of receiving You as Lord and Saviour. Give us clear, gentle words and hearts willing to follow. Amen.
* This is an extract of the fuller article found here.