How should believers respond when others question Jesus' identity today? Setting the Scene (John 7:25) “Then some of the people of Jerusalem began to say, ‘Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill?’” • Crowds in Jerusalem wrestled with conflicting reports: rulers sought Jesus’ death, yet He taught openly. • Their uncertainty mirrors modern skepticism: “If Jesus were really the Christ, why the opposition?” Why People Question Jesus’ Identity • Incomplete knowledge of Scripture (John 7:27) • Fear of religious or cultural pressure (John 9:22) • Misunderstanding of messianic prophecies (Isaiah 53; Micah 5:2) • Personal sin that resists His Lordship (John 3:19-20) How Believers Can Respond Today Point to the Written Word • Anchor every answer in Scripture’s plain meaning—Jesus did (Luke 24:27). • Show fulfilled prophecies: – Virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22-23) – Birthplace (Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:5-6) – Suffering Messiah (Isaiah 53; 1 Peter 2:24-25) • Emphasize John’s purpose: “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ…” (John 20:31). Share Christ’s Own Claims • John 8:58—“Before Abraham was born, I am!” • John 10:30—“I and the Father are one.” • John 14:6—exclusive path to the Father. Let His words confront the listener; they carry intrinsic authority. Be Ready, Clear, and Gentle • 1 Peter 3:15—set apart Christ as Lord, answer “with gentleness and respect.” • Colossians 4:5-6—speech seasoned with grace, yet salty with truth. • Avoid quarrelsome tones (2 Timothy 2:24-25). Offer Personal Testimony • The healed blind man simply stated, “One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I see” (John 9:25). • Your story illustrates the living reality of Jesus’ identity. Live a Consistent Witness • Let observable love validate your message (John 13:35). • Even opponents noticed Peter and John “had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). Depend on the Holy Spirit • Only the Spirit convinces hearts (John 16:8-11). • Pray for open eyes (2 Corinthians 4:4-6). Scriptural Anchors That Settle Our Own Hearts • John 1:1, 14—Jesus is eternal Word made flesh. • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Acts 4:12—no other name for salvation. • Romans 1:16—the gospel remains “the power of God for salvation.” Expect Mixed Responses • Some will marvel (John 7:31). • Others will scoff (John 7:41-43). • A few may plot harm (John 7:1). Stay faithful; outcomes rest with God. Encouragement to Finish Strong Stand confidently on Scripture’s literal truth, speak the words of Christ, embody His character, and trust the Spirit to reveal the Son of God—just as He has from the first century to today. |
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