Who Do You Say That I Am?

The Universal Question of Jesus’ Identity

The inquiry, "Who do people say that I am?" posed by Jesus, reflects a universal curiosity about His true essence. This question has elicited varied responses across different faiths and cultures. In Islam, Jesus is revered as a significant prophet, born miraculously and performing wonders by God's permission, yet not acknowledged as divine or the Son of God. Orthodox Judaism does not recognize Jesus as the Messiah or a divine figure, Jesus is viewed primarily as a historical figure, and possibly a Jewish teacher or rabbi, who lived in the first century. Looking into a 2020 survey it is revealed that a slight majority (52%) of American adults view Jesus Christ merely as a great teacher and not as God, contradicting traditional Christian teachings that affirm Jesus as both divine and human. This perspective is seen even among evangelicals, with nearly one-third denying Jesus' divinity, while 65% believe Jesus is the foremost creation of God. This survey, which encompassed 3,000 Americans including 630 self-described evangelicals, signals a drift from orthodox evangelical teachings and underscores a need for renewed scriptural engagement and witness among Christians.

The findings also highlight a theological debate within Christianity regarding the nature of Jesus, contrasting the "Historical Jesus" with the doctrinal understanding of Jesus as part of the Holy Trinity. Furthermore, about 44% of respondents believe that Jesus, being both man and God, committed sins like any mortal, a view that challenges mainstream Christian doctrine. These survey results have prompted calls for rigorous study of Scripture and a more assertive Christian witness to reaffirm traditional beliefs about Jesus' identity and his sinless nature.

Diverse Responses to Christ's Identity:The Gospels present a spectrum of reactions to Jesus—from awe and recognition to skepticism and inquiry. Figures such as the centurion, John the Baptist, the religious leaders, Pilate, Saul (later Paul), and the Samaritan woman illustrate the varied human responses to Jesus' identity. These interactions highlight a shared quest for truth, transcending cultural and religious boundaries, and underscoring the transformative power of encountering Jesus.

III. The Transfiguration: A Divine Affirmation:The Transfiguration stands as a pivotal moment where the divine identity of Jesus is unmistakably revealed, casting away doubt and inviting faith. This event, where Jesus is seen in dazzling glory and conversing with Moses and Elijah, symbolizes the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets and echoes the heavenly voice's endorsement, "This is my beloved Son; listen to Him!" It serves as a divine response to the questioning of Jesus' identity, urging us to embrace Him as the Christ, the Son of the living God.

IV. From Revelation to Redemption:The Transfiguration not only reveals Jesus' divine nature but also foreshadows the journey to Calvary, where His mission of redemption through suffering and sacrifice is fulfilled. This path from glory to the cross highlights the Messiah's true purpose—not conquest but redemption through self-giving love. It invites us to reflect deeply on the crucifixion, a pivotal moment of Christian faith, contrasting with perspectives like Islam's, which deny Jesus' death on the cross.

V. Embracing the Mystery:As we journey from the mountaintop of Transfiguration to the shadows of Calvary, we are called to embrace the mystery of Christ's identity and mission. This journey, from doubt to declaration, challenges us to deepen our faith and to live out this faith amidst a world of diverse beliefs. It calls us to witness to Jesus' divine identity and sacrificial love, transforming our understanding and inspiring us to act with compassion and conviction.

Conclusion:In closing, let us hold fast to the revelation of Jesus' divine identity and His love, allowing this understanding to deepen our faith and guide our lives. As we ponder the question, "Who do you say that I am?" may our hearts and lives affirm Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, committed to following His path from glory to Calvary. May this journey of faith inspire us to live as witnesses to Christ's love and sacrifice in a pluralistic world, embracing the mystery of His identity with courage and conviction.