The Haze of Half-Belief - Jan. 4, 2026

Title: Condemned by the Light

Passage: Luke 9:7–9 (KJV)

Luke 9:7–9 KJV

7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead; 8 And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again. 9 And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.

Central Idea of the Text (CIT): Herod Antipas was perplexed upon hearing of Jesus’ ministry, as rumors spread that a resurrected prophet (perhaps John the Baptist) was at work, and he desired to see Jesus[1].

Sermonic Proposition: We must not remain in perplexity about Jesus – He is the Christ, and we must respond by confessing Him as Lord rather than lingering in curiosity.

Statement of Purpose: General Purpose – Consecrative (calling believers to commitment, while also evangelistic). Specific Objective – I want my hearers to personally confront the true identity of Jesus Christ and move from mere curiosity to confident conviction and confession of Him as Lord. Unbelievers will be urged to repent and trust Jesus as Savior today, and believers will be challenged to renew their devotion to Christ’s lordship as we begin the new year.

Outline

I. Jesus’ Works Confront the Sinner’s Conscience (Luke 9:7)

A. Jesus’ ministry cannot be hidden, even from rulers

1. Herod “heard of all that was done by him” (Luke 9:7a)

2. Christ’s power reaches every level of society (cf. Luke 8:1; 9:1–6)

B. A guilty conscience responds with fear, not faith

1. Herod “was perplexed” (Luke 9:7b)

2. Guilt distorts spiritual perception (cf. Proverbs 28:1; John 3:19–20)

II. Popular Opinions About Jesus Fall Short of the Truth (Luke 9:7b–8)

A. Some reduce Jesus to a resurrected prophet

1. “John was risen from the dead” (Luke 9:7c; cf. Mark 6:14–16)

2. Fear-driven superstition replaces repentance

B. Others elevate Jesus but still misunderstand Him

1. “Elias had appeared” (Luke 9:8a; cf. Malachi 4:5)

2. “One of the old prophets was risen again” (Luke 9:8b; cf. Deuteronomy 18:15)

C. All these views honor Jesus partially but deny Him fully

1. Prophet—yes, but more than a prophet (cf. Luke 7:16)

2. Truth demands a definitive answer (cf. Luke 9:18–20)

III. Every Person Must Answer the Question of Jesus Personally (Luke 9:9)

A. Herod acknowledges facts without yielding his heart

1. “John have I beheaded” (Luke 9:9a)

2. Knowledge without repentance hardens the heart (cf. James 1:22)

B. The unavoidable question remains

1. “But who is this…?” (Luke 9:9b)

2. The same question echoes throughout Luke’s Gospel (cf. Luke 8:25; 9:20)

C. Curiosity without submission leads to rejection

1. “He desired to see him” (Luke 9:9c; cf. Luke 23:8–11)

2. Seeing Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Jesus

IV. Christ Demands Confession, Not Curiosity (Bridge to Application)

A. The right answer revealed by God

1. “Thou art the Christ of God” (Luke 9:20)

2. Jesus is the Son of God and Lord of all (cf. Matthew 16:16; John 20:28)

B. The necessary response required of every soul

1. Confession unto salvation (Romans 10:9–13)

2. Obedience flowing from true faith (Luke 6:46; James 2:17)

Conclusion Call

Do not be condemned by rejected light (John 3:19)

Walk in the light by confessing Christ (John 8:12)

Begin this new year settled on one truth: Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:9–11)

Introduction

(Get Attention)

As we turn the page into a new year, many of us are thinking about resolutions and fresh priorities. We clean out closets, set new goals, and refocus on what really matters. But one question towers above all others as we start 2026: “Who is Jesus Christ, and what will you do with Him?” This is not just a question for theologians or historians – it’s deeply personal. In our world, confusion abounds about Jesus’ identity. Ask ten people on the street who Jesus is, and you might hear: “A great teacher,” “A social revolutionary,” “A prophet,” or even “maybe just a myth.” Even in a church setting, it’s possible to sing about Jesus on Sunday yet live with a heart that hasn’t truly settled who He is on Monday. We desperately need clarity.

(Raise the Need)

Why does it matter that we get Jesus’ identity right? Because our eternal destiny and our daily direction hinge on it. If Jesus truly is the Son of God, the Savior, the Lord of all – then He demands our complete trust and devotion. If we’re unclear or merely curious about Him, we’ll drift without anchor or purpose. History is full of people who heard about Jesus but never acted in faith – and they missed the life He offered. We don’t want to start another year uncertain about the very One who gives life meaning. In fact, nothing could be more urgent for our families, our church, and our souls than to move from confusion to conviction about Christ.

(Orient the Theme – Context)

Our Scripture this morning, Luke 9:7–9, drops us into a moment of confusion over Jesus’ identity. Jesus had been preaching the gospel of the kingdom and performing miracles across Galilee. Word was spreading fast about the wonders: demons cast out, the sick healed, even the dead raised. Even the highest authorities couldn’t ignore Jesus. In these verses, we see Herod Antipas, the tetrarch (or regional ruler) of Galilee, hearing reports about Jesus and not knowing what to make of Him[2]. Herod, the same ruler who had earlier imprisoned and executed John the Baptist, suddenly finds himself face to face with the question: “Who is this man doing all these mighty works?”. Rumors swirl – some suggest John the Baptist is risen from the dead, others say Elijah has reappeared, others think an ancient prophet has come back to life[1]. Herod is perplexed and haunted by this news. You can almost see the blood drain from his face when someone in his court says, “Your Highness, people are saying it might be John the Baptist back from the grave!” Herod’s guilty heart skips a beat – John, whom I beheaded, alive again? Imagine him gripping his throne in fear. Luke tells us Herod kept trying to see Jesus for himself, perhaps hoping to satisfy a morbid curiosity or to calm his own conscience.

(State the Purpose)

Church, this might seem like an ancient palace intrigue, but God recorded it for our instruction today. Through Herod’s reaction, the Holy Spirit is shining a light on us: on our need to confront the truth about Jesus. Herod asked, “Who is this?” – and God asks each of us the very same question. This morning, my purpose is to call each of us to a clear, heartfelt answer. No one can remain safely neutral or curious about Christ. Either we, like Herod, shrink back in fear and indecision – and face the consequences of rejecting the light we’ve been shown – or we, like Peter a few verses later, boldly confess, “Jesus, You are the Christ of God!”[3]. By the end of this message, I pray that every one of us will move from any shred of confusion or curiosity into rock-solid conviction and open confession that Jesus Christ is Lord – and that we’ll enter this new year with our hearts and homes fixed on Him.

I. Jesus’ Works Confront the Sinner’s Conscience (Luke 9:7)

A. Jesus’ ministry cannot be hidden, even from rulers

1. Herod “heard of all that was done by him” (Luke 9:7a)

“Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by [Jesus]: and he was perplexed…”[4]. Pause there. Herod Antipas – the ruler of Galilee – could not escape the impact of Jesus. News of blind eyes opened and lepers cleansed in his territory eventually reached the palace.

2. Christ’s power reaches every level of society (cf. Luke 8:1; 9:1–6)

The text says he “heard of all that was done” by Jesus – the buzz of Christ’s ministry reverberated through every level of society. Imagine Herod sitting at dinner, when a breathless messenger runs in: “Your excellency, the rabbi from Nazareth – He just raised a dead girl to life! Crowds are following Him everywhere!” Herod’s fork drops. He leans in: “What did you say? Who did that?” Jesus’ name is on everyone’s lips. Even the mighty cannot ignore Jesus’ works.

B. A guilty conscience responds with fear, not faith

1. Herod “was perplexed” (Luke 9:7b)

Herod’s initial reaction is telling: “he was perplexed”. The Greek word (διηπόρει, diaporeō) means completely at a loss, confounded, in doubt. In modern terms, Herod was disturbed and anxious. This wasn’t a casual curiosity – it was an unsettling internal conflict. Why such turmoil? Luke explains it was “because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead”[1]. Those reports hit a nerve. You see, Herod had a tortured conscience. This was the same man who not long before had ordered John the Baptist to be beheaded in prison. Mark’s Gospel fills in the backstory: Herod had imprisoned John for preaching against Herod’s sin, and though Herod respected John as a “just and holy man,” pressure from his wife Herodias led him to execute John[5]. Ever since, Herod seems to have been living under a shadow of guilt. Mark 6:14 tells us that when Herod first heard of Jesus’ miracles, “he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.”[6] In other words, Herod himself initially jumped to the conclusion that Jesus must be John come back to haunt him! His worst nightmare was plausible: the prophet he murdered has returned with even greater power. No wonder Herod was shaking in his royal sandals.

2. Guilt distorts spiritual perception (cf. Proverbs 28:1; John 3:19–20)

This is a picture of a sinner’s conscience under conviction. Herod had tried to silence John’s call to repentance by force, but now he cannot silence the voice of truth. Jesus’ ministry confronted him anew with the very message of God he tried to escape. It’s been well said, “A guilty conscience is the [only] thing that cannot be shut up in a dungeon.” Herod could behead John, but he could not behead the truth. In fact, the truth he tried to bury came back stronger, and it terrified him. We get a glimpse here of what John’s Gospel means: “Light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light…” (John 3:19). When God’s light shines – whether through a prophet’s preaching or Jesus’ miracles – it demands a response. If we harden our hearts, that light we reject becomes a source of judgment and fear. Herod is condemned by the light he’s already received. He knows enough to be responsible: he heard John’s call to repent, yet he clung to his sin. Now Jesus’ very presence in Galilee is like a beacon exposing Herod’s guilt, and he is deeply unsettled.

Illustration: Think of how a long-buried sin can haunt a person. Joseph’s brothers in Genesis sold him into slavery and lied to cover it up. But years later, when trouble came, they cried out, “We are verily guilty concerning our brother… behold, his blood is required” (Gen. 42:21-22)HYPERLINK "https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JUwqi-w4V2U7iJzV6tAmyEszc7IKTejo" \h[7]. Their conscience had kept receipts, waiting for the day of reckoning. Or consider Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. After the deed, Judas was so tormented by guilt that he threw the silver in the temple and confessed, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood”, before taking his own life (Matt. 27:4-5)[8]. In each case, the sin they thought they got away with found them out. Herod’s guilty conscience likewise sprang to life at the news of Jesus[9]. Perhaps late at night he could still see John’s eyes pleading with him in that dungeon, saying, “Herod, repent! Herod, prepare for the Messiah!” Now reports of miracles make Herod break out in a cold sweat – Is John back? Is God coming for me?

Application: We dare not ignore the pricking of conscience when Jesus confronts us. Herod felt fear, but notice: he did not repent. He was “perplexed,” but he didn’t fall on his knees. He’s an example of worldly sorrow versus godly sorrow (2 Cor. 7:10). Worldly sorrow is being upset at the consequences – Herod feared John’s “ghost” and the threat to his throne – but godly sorrow would have led him to cry out to God for mercy. Herod still loved his sin (his illicit marriage and his power) more than the truth. So instead of bowing to Jesus, he merely desired to see Him as a curiosity (we’ll see that in verse 9). How many people today feel a twinge of conviction when they hear about Jesus, yet resist actually surrendering to Him? Perhaps someone listening now finds their heart uneasy when we speak of Christ’s lordship or His coming judgment. Maybe you’ve tried to push Jesus out of mind, but here you are – “hearing of all that He has done,” and your heart is troubled. Friend, don’t be like Herod and try to shove conviction aside. That discomfort in your soul is actually a gift of God’s grace inviting you to repent. Rather than let fear drive you away, let it drive you to Jesus’ feet in faith.

For believers, there’s a lesson here too. Herod’s conscience shows that nobody sins and truly “gets away with it.” If even a king in a palace cannot escape accountability to God, neither can we. When we stray into disobedience, the Holy Spirit will trouble our hearts – not to torment us, but to lead us back to Christ. If you feel convicted, Christian, don’t delay repentance. Is there some unresolved sin as you enter the new year – something you know Christ has been calling out in you? Don’t silence that warning. Bring it to Jesus and find cleansing. Better to have a soft heart that responds immediately than a hard heart that trembles and never bows.

Transition: Herod’s perplexity shows the power of Jesus’ truth confronting a soul. But Herod’s confusion was compounded by the whirlwind of rumors flying around. He wasn’t the only one asking, “Who is this Jesus?” In fact, everyone had an opinion. That leads us to the second insight from our text:

II. Popular Opinions About Jesus Fall Short of the Truth (Luke 9:8)

[People Offer Conflicting and Inadequate Views of Jesus]

A. Some reduce Jesus to a resurrected prophet

Verse 8 continues, “…and of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again.”[1] Here Luke summarizes the chatter among the populace. The fact that multiple theories were circulating shows just how extraordinary Jesus’ ministry was – everyone recognized something supernatural was at work, but they couldn’t agree on an explanation. Let’s examine these popular views:

1. “John was risen from the dead” (Luke 9:7c; cf. Mark 6:14–16)

2. Fear-driven superstition replaces repentance

“John the Baptist is risen from the dead,” some said. This idea likely originated with Herod’s court and quickly spread (Herod himself leaned toward it, as Mark 6 records). John had been a mighty prophet, and indeed Jesus’ message of repentance and His gathering of disciples sounded similar to John’s ministry. But how inadequate this theory was! John himself had pointed to Jesus and said, “I am not the Christ,” and “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:28-30). To say Jesus was just John come back reduced the Lord of glory to a recycled forerunner. It was a case of mistaken identity – a big miss.

B. Others elevate Jesus but still misunderstand Him

1. “Elias had appeared” (Luke 9:8a; cf. Malachi 4:5)

“Elias (Elijah) had appeared,” others speculated. Now, Elijah was one of Israel’s greatest prophets, and Malachi 4:5 did prophesy that Elijah would come before the great Day of the Lord. In fact, many Jews of the time expected Elijah to literally return as a precursor to the Messiah. Perhaps when they saw Jesus’ miracles – calling down divine power to raise the dead or multiply food – it reminded them of the miracles Elijah and his successor Elisha performed. Maybe they thought, “This could be Elijah back from heaven!” Again, this is an exalted guess – Elijah was no small figure – but still far short of the truth. Jesus wasn’t just a herald of judgment or preparer of the way; He was the very One Elijah (and John) were preparing the way for!

2. “One of the old prophets was risen again” (Luke 9:8b; cf. Deuteronomy 18:15)

“One of the old prophets is risen again,” others said. Maybe some thought of Moses (whom God had said He would raise up a prophet like him – Deut. 18:15) or Jeremiah or Isaiah or another revered prophet of old. It had been centuries since Israel had seen a prophet, so people were grasping for categories to fit Jesus into.

C. All these views honor Jesus partially but deny Him fully

1. Prophet—yes, but more than a prophet (cf. Luke 7:16)

“Surely He’s one of the ancient greats come back to life!” On the surface, this sounds respectful – they’re associating Jesus with the heroes of faith. But notice: every opinion people gave falls short of acknowledging Jesus as Messiah, the Son of God. To call Jesus a prophet, even a resurrected one, is to honor Him with a wrong label. It’s like mistaking a brilliant sunrise for a mere street lamp – you’re categorizing it far too low.

2. Truth demands a definitive answer (cf. Luke 9:18–20)

Luke, in fact, bookends this scene with a contrast. Here in verses 7–8 we have the crowds’ confused guesses. But if you peek ahead to Luke 9:18–20, Jesus later asks His disciples, “Whom say the people that I am?” They report the same opinions: John the Baptist, Elijah, or another prophet[10]. Then Jesus pointedly asks, “But whom say ye that I am?” And Peter answers definitively, “The Christ of God.”[3] There it is – the truth none of the crowds were willing to say. Jesus is the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One), not merely a prophet in a long line, but the culmination of God’s salvation plan. So here in verse 8, Luke is highlighting the tragic irony: the Light of the World was in their midst, yet people were groping around with inadequate explanations. Close, perhaps, but not close enough. Almost right about Jesus is still wrong about Jesus.

Illustration: We see the same phenomenon today, don’t we? The world is still abuzz with conflicting views of Jesus. Just as in Jesus’ day, people who acknowledge His greatness often stop short of acknowledging His lordship. For example: Islam reveres Jesus as a prophet – but only a prophet, not the Son of God. Hinduism might accept Jesus as an enlightened teacher or even an avatar of the divine among many others, but not the one true Incarnation of God. Secular people often admire Jesus as a moral philosopher or social reformer – a Gandhi-like figure teaching love and justice – but they reject His resurrection and deity. Even within Christendom, there are cults like the Jehovah’s Witnesses who say Jesus is Michael the archangel, a created being; or liberal theologians who strip away the miracles and say Jesus was basically a wise sage whose followers mythologized Him. Everyone has an opinion: some flattering, some outright hostile, some confused. Perhaps you’ve noticed when you talk to friends or co-workers – many will say positive things about Jesus (“He was a good man,” “a great example”). But if you press the question of His unique identity as Lord and God, suddenly the room grows quiet. People will give Jesus every title except the one that forces them to their knees – King of Kings.

Even around the holidays just past, you’ll hear people sing carols about “newborn King” and “Christ the Savior,” but for many it’s just tradition. In their heart, they haven’t owned Him as their Lord. It’s as if humanity keeps trying to fit Jesus into a safe box – prophet, teacher, example – anything but God incarnate, anything but the exclusive Savior. The problem is exactly what it was in Luke 9: it’s inadequate and conflicting views. They can’t all be right. Truth isn’t “pick your favorite option.” Jesus either is who He claimed to be – the Son of the living God – or else, as C.S. Lewis famously noted, if He isn’t Lord then He must be a liar or a lunatic. But the one thing Jesus cannot be is just another prophet or teacher if His claims of divinity and authority are true.

Application: This calls us, church, to two responses: discernment and decision.

First, discernment: we must not be swept up by the swirl of popular opinions. We have to ground ourselves in what Scripture says about Jesus, not what the crowds say. The crowds are often wrong! In Herod’s day, the popular consensus missed the mark, and in our day, the polls and talk shows will miss the mark. We, as God’s people, must hold fast to the biblical, historic confession of Christ: that He is “very God of very God”, eternally begotten, who took on flesh, died for our sins, and rose again – the one and only Savior. This is non-negotiable. We can appreciate that others see Jesus as special, but we cannot water down who He truly is. Guard your mind against any teaching that diminishes Jesus’ deity, His sinless life, His atoning death, or His literal resurrection. That’s why it’s important to be in a church that upholds sound doctrine (and I’m thankful that here at First Baptist we do affirm these truths). Our church’s statement of faith rightly declares that Jesus is the eternal Son of God, virgin-born, crucified for our redemption, literally risen and exalted[11][12]. We won’t budge on that.

Second, decision: ultimately, it wasn’t enough for people in Galilee to speculate about Jesus from a distance, and it’s not enough for us either. The crowds’ opinions didn’t save or change them – many who called Him a prophet later shouted “Crucify Him” when He didn’t meet their expectations. In the same way, your personal decision about Jesus is what matters most. It’s fine to know what others say, but Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” Each of us must answer. It’s not a theoretical question – it’s the difference between life and death. If you only ever see Jesus as a great man or even as one savior among many, you will miss salvation. Good opinions about Jesus are not the same as saving faith in Jesus. We must move from admiration to adoration, from respect to reverence, from calling Him teacher to bowing before Him as Lord.

Christian, this also affects how we witness. When you talk to your unsaved loved ones, remember that they may have a fog of misinformation about Jesus picked up from society. Gently and clearly point them to the truth: share who Jesus really is according to the Bible. Use the Word of God to cut through confusion – verses like John 14:6 (He is “the way, the truth, the life”), or John 10:30 (“I and my Father are one”), or even right here in Luke 9:20 (Peter’s confession). The Holy Spirit can illuminate their hearts as you testify to the real Jesus. Don’t be ashamed to lovingly correct false ideas – souls are at stake. Our culture might say “truth is relative,” but Jesus’ question “Who am I?” has a right answer. Let’s lovingly help people find it.

Transition: We’ve seen Herod disturbed by Jesus’ power and the people debating Jesus’ identity. The tragedy in these verses is that despite all the evidence of Christ’s miracles and fulfillment of prophecy, so many remained merely curious or confused. But Luke also hints at something else: a longing, a pull. Herod, for all his fear, had a strange attraction – he wanted to see Jesus. It wasn’t a saving desire, but it shows that Jesus demands attention. The final verse (9) brings the focus to a point of decision, which is where we must land as well.

III. Every Person Must Answer the Question of Jesus Personally (Luke 9:9)

[We Must Answer the Question Personally: Who Is Jesus to You?]

A. Herod acknowledges facts without yielding his heart

1. “John have I beheaded” (Luke 9:9a)

2. Knowledge without repentance hardens the heart (cf. James 1:22)

Verse 9: “And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this, of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.”[13] Here the historian in Luke lets us hear Herod talking to himself (or his advisors): “John, I beheaded. But who is this…?” It’s as if Herod is trying to reason it out: “I know it can’t literally be John – I killed him. I was there, I gave the order, I saw the head removed. So who is this new miracle-worker causing such a stir?”

B. The unavoidable question remains

1. “But who is this…?” (Luke 9:9b)

Can you sense the mixture of fear and fascination? Herod doesn’t know what to believe. Perhaps he’s hoping someone will convince him, “Don’t worry, it’s just another prophet, nothing to panic about.” Yet the question lingers in the throne room: “Who exactly is Jesus?” That question would not go away – and beloved, it still hasn’t gone away.

2. The same question echoes throughout Luke’s Gospel (cf. Luke 8:25; 9:20)

Every human heart at some point must grapple with it.

C. Curiosity without submission leads to rejection

1. “He desired to see him” (Luke 9:9c; cf. Luke 23:8–11)

Luke tells us that Herod “desired to see [Jesus]”. In fact, later in the Gospel, this wish is granted – though not in the way Herod hoped. In Luke 23:8, during Jesus’ trial, Pilate sends Jesus, beaten and bound, to Herod (for Jesus was under Herod’s jurisdiction). It says, “When Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him.” So picture that: Herod finally got his face-to-face with the Son of God. What did he do? Luke 23:9 says, “Then he questioned with him in many words; but [Jesus] answered him nothing.” Herod peppered Jesus with curious questions, perhaps tinged with mockery or demand for a show. Jesus gave him no answer. In the end, Herod and his soldiers set Jesus at naught, mocked Him, dressed Him in a silly robe, and sent Him back to Pilate (Luke 23:11). What a sobering outcome.

2. Seeing Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Jesus

Herod’s desire to see Jesus was not the same as a desire to know Jesus or honor Jesus. It was curiosity at best, spectacle-seeking at worst. He wanted entertainment or validation, not truth. And when Jesus did not perform tricks for him, Herod’s moment of interest turned to scorn. He literally had Jesus in front of his eyes – the Light of the World standing before him – and he closed his heart and mocked. Herod’s indecision and curiosity hardened into outright rejection. Tragically, there’s no evidence Herod ever came to faith or godly sorrow. He stands as a warning that to be intrigued by Jesus without surrendering to Jesus is not enough. In fact, it can lead to greater sin and condemnation if we spurn the Light we’re given.

Application:

So what about us? Herod’s question hangs in the air: “Who is this…?” We have far more information than Herod did at that moment. We live on this side of the cross and the empty tomb. We have the full testimony of Scripture that this Jesus is the Son of God, crucified for sinners, risen in power, coming again as Judge and King. The evidence is in. Now the question must be answered in our own hearts: Who is Jesus to me? Not just intellectually, but in terms of allegiance and faith. Will I confess Jesus Christ as Lord, or not?

Let’s clarify what confessing Jesus as Lord means. It’s more than acknowledging a fact; it’s a personal embrace of Jesus in all that He is. Confession (homologeo) means to “agree with” or “say the same thing.” God has declared Jesus to be Lord – “for it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God” (Romans 14:11). When we confess Jesus as Lord, we agree with God’s verdict about His Son and we submit to Him. Romans 10:9 famously says, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus (that Jesus is Lord), and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” So salvation itself hinges on this confession of who Jesus is – not as a mere figure of history, but as my sovereign, my Savior.

Dear friend, have you made that confession personally? I don’t just mean reciting a creed in church; I mean in your soul, have you bowed to Jesus and said, “You are my Lord and my God”? It’s possible someone here has been attending church, hearing about Jesus for a long time – perhaps enjoying the messages, finding Jesus interesting – but you’ve never crossed from curiosity to commitment. Maybe you identify a bit with Herod’s fascination, or the crowds’ high opinions, but you’ve stopped short of a decisive trust in Christ as your Lord. The start of a new year is the perfect time to settle this. Don’t carry uncertainty about your soul any further. Jesus invites you – even today – to move from wondering to worshiping. He stands at the door and knocks. You’ve “desired to see Him” – well, see Him now with eyes of faith: see Him as the One who died for your sins and rose again. See Him as the rightful King of your life. And then open the door! Let Him in, surrendering your life to His control.

For those of us who have confessed Christ in the past – many here are born-again believers – the question still echoes for us in another way: will we live out that confession daily? Jesus asked His disciples “Who do you say I am?” even though they’d been following Him. Why? Because it’s possible to follow and still not fully grasp His lordship. Peter answered rightly, “Thou art the Christ of God”[3], but not long after, Peter would struggle to accept Jesus’ path to the cross, and Jesus had to rebuke him. Likewise, we may believe Jesus is Lord, but do we behave as if He is Lord over every area of our lives? It’s easy to sing “He is Lord” on Sunday and then effectively say “Who is Lord?” on Monday by our actions. Think about your priorities, your family life, your work ethic, your private habits – do they reflect that Jesus is truly in charge? Or have we compartmentalized our faith, keeping Jesus at the periphery in day-to-day decisions?

This new year, Christ calls His church to a renewed focus on His lordship. It’s a call to clarity – no more fuzzy edges about whom we serve. If Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, then He deserves first place in our hearts (Col. 1:18). That means our plans and resolutions must bow to His will. It means saying, “Lord, whatever 2026 holds, I am Yours – lead me, use me, change me as You see fit.” It means, very practically, if there’s any habit or allegiance in our life that conflicts with His authority, we lay it down. Perhaps it means finally making a public profession of faith through baptism if you haven’t, or plugging into service in the church where you’ve been on the sidelines. Perhaps it means reconciling a broken relationship because Jesus commands forgiveness, or stepping away from something sinful you’ve flirted with. “Jesus is Lord” is not just a theological slogan; it’s a lifestyle of obedience and devotion. Remember, Jesus said in Luke 6:46, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Our true confession is proven by our submission.

Now, I want to address families for a moment. Parents, as you lead your homes this year, center them on the question of Jesus’ identity and lordship. Talk often with your children about who Jesus is – not just as a Bible story figure, but as the living Savior who deserves their heart. There is a lot of noise out there, and our kids will hear the “rumors” and false views from peers and media. It’s our job to make sure the true Jesus is known and loved at home. Perhaps make it a point this year to memorize a verse together each week that exalts Christ (for example, John 1:1 or Colossians 1:15-18). Let your home be filled with the light of Christ so that confusion has no foothold.

As a church, we collectively need to keep Jesus at the center of everything – our worship, our teaching, our fellowship, our mission. We are “First Baptist Church of Westminster”, but we could just as well be called “Jesus’ People at Westminster” because He is the One we follow. May we never get sidetracked by mere programs or personalities. In all we do – whether children’s ministry, youth group, Bible studies, or outreach – let’s make it our aim to exalt Jesus and call people to Him. If we lift Him up, He will draw all men unto Himself.

Illustration: Let me share a brief true story as we close this point. Years ago, a skeptical university student in England set out to investigate Christianity. He admired Jesus as a moral teacher but doubted the supernatural claims. However, the more he studied the Gospels, the more he was struck by Jesus’ person – His words carried a weight that no mere man’s could. One night, wrestling with the question “Who are you, Lord?”, it was as if the risen Christ confronted him through the Scriptures. That student later wrote, “A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher... You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse.” That student was C.S. Lewis, who went on to bow to Jesus as Lord and became a great Christian writer. His journey echoes the choice each person faces. Lewis had to move from viewing Jesus as just a teacher to confessing Him as God. Once he did, his life was never the same.

IV. Christ Demands Confession, Not Curiosity

[Bridge to Application]

A. The right answer revealed by God

1. “Thou art the Christ of God” (Luke 9:20)

Application: We’ve each got to make that same choice. Herod asked, “Who is this?” and shrank back. Peter declared, “You are the Christ,” and stepped forward – albeit imperfectly – in faith. One response led to tragic loss; the other led to salvation and a life of purpose. There is no middle ground where we safely sit and admire Jesus but not follow Him.

2. Jesus is the Son of God and Lord of all (cf. Matthew 16:16; John 20:28)

As the old saying goes, “Jesus is either Lord of all, or not Lord at all.” If you haven’t yet, I urge you: answer His call today. Don’t be “exceedingly glad” to hear about Him one moment and then dismiss Him the next like Herod did. Instead, be like Doubting Thomas, who when finally convinced, fell before the risen Christ and exclaimed, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). That’s one of the clearest confessions in Scripture – Thomas moved from confusion to conviction in an instant when he saw the truth. And Jesus said, “blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed” (John 20:29). That’s us – we haven’t seen with physical eyes, but the testimony of God’s Word and Spirit is clear. Will we believe and confess?

B. The necessary response required of every soul

1. Confession unto salvation (Romans 10:9–13)

So I put the question to you personally, as lovingly and earnestly as I can: Who is Jesus to you? Is He a figure in a book, a topic for Sunday, someone you respect? Or is He truly the Savior you trust with all your heart and the Lord you bow to with all your life? This is the fork in the road of faith.

2. Obedience flowing from true faith (Luke 6:46; James 2:17)

The beginning of a new year is a perfect moment to either begin a relationship with Christ or to re-center your life firmly around Him. Don’t carry ambiguity into 2026 – nail it down today that Jesus is your Lord.

Conclusion: A Call to Clarity and Commitment

Do not be condemned by rejected light (John 3:19)

The lights have been turned on; now we must step into that light. Herod had the light of Christ shining into his dark world, and he responded with a perplexed, lingering question and ultimately rejection. The crowds had the light, and they responded with half-right guesses and uncertainty. But the disciples, by God’s grace, saw the light of Jesus’ true identity – Peter said, “Thou art the Christ,” and in doing so he aligned himself with the truth that saves[3]. This first Sunday of the new year, God is urging each of us: Don’t linger in the shadows of confusion or the haze of half-belief. Step boldly into the light of a full confession of Christ. As the title of the message says, “Condemned by the Light” – that’s what happens if we refuse it. But the opposite is also true: if we embrace the Light, we are saved and transformed by it. John 3:19 warned that rejecting the light brings judgment, but Jesus also gave us a glorious promise in John 8:12: “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

Walk in the light by confessing Christ (John 8:12)

So will you follow Him out of darkness today? Maybe you’ve been curious about Jesus – you’ve heard the gospel, you’ve seen changes in Christian friends, and something in you “desires to see Jesus.” Friend, don’t stop at curiosity. Come to Him in faith. He died and rose again to save you. He offers forgiveness for every sin that troubles your conscience – yes, even the ones that, like Herod, make you tremble inside. Jesus’ blood can wash them completely clean. The living Christ stands ready to embrace you if you’ll turn from sin and trust Him. I invite you: move from curiosity to commitment. Pray to Him even now in your heart: “Lord Jesus, I believe You are who You claim to be – the Son of God, my Savior. I turn from my sin and receive You as my Lord.” Romans 10:13 gives this assurance: “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” That promise is for you. Don’t leave here still asking “Who is Jesus?” in uncertainty – leave here rejoicing “Jesus is my Lord and my God!”

Begin this new year settled on one truth: Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:9–11)

And to you dear brothers and sisters in Christ, the call is to renew and deepen your confession. Perhaps as the year ended you found yourself spiritually distracted or lukewarm. It’s time to refocus on the centrality of Christ. No more half-measures. Let’s make 2026 a year where our lives loudly declare, “Jesus is Lord!” not only with our lips on Sunday, but with our choices on Monday through Saturday. That might mean making some adjustments right away – maybe reprioritizing your schedule to put worship and devotional time first, maybe clearing out media or habits that dull your love for Christ. It could mean finally obeying that calling He’s put on your heart – whether it’s to serve, to give, to witness, or to reconcile with someone. If He is Lord, the answer must be “Yes, Lord” in every area. The good news is, we don’t do this alone or in our own strength. The same Holy Spirit who opened the disciples’ eyes to see Jesus will empower us to live for Jesus. He will give you the courage to stand for Christ at work or school. He will give you the grace to love difficult people in Jesus’ name, or to endure trials by keeping your eyes on the Savior. Just yield to Him, day by day.

As we close, I think of the old hymn that says: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” That’s the vision we need for this new year – a fresh gaze at the glorious face of Jesus, our Lord. When we see Him clearly, everything else falls into place. Clarity about Christ produces clarity in life. If you know who Jesus is, you’ll know why you’re here and how you’re to live.

So I invite you now to respond to God’s Word. In a moment, we’ll have a time of invitation. This is not a ritual – it’s an opportunity. If God is stirring your heart, don’t resist. Step out in faith. If you need to be saved, come – I or another counselor will pray with you, answering your questions, leading you to Jesus. If you’re a believer who just needs to kneel and re-surrender some things to Christ’s lordship, the altar is open for you as well. What better way to start 2026 than on our knees, saying “Jesus, You are my King – have Your way in me”.

Herod asked, “Who is this man I’m hearing about?” Let’s answer with all our hearts today: “This is Jesus, my Lord and my God!” No more doubt, no more hesitation – only devotion. The light has come; let’s walk in that light together.

Invitation: Will you bow your head with me? – “Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the world, into our darkness. Thank You for the clarity of Your Word that shows us exactly who He is – the Christ, the Son of God, the only Savior. Lord, if there is anyone here like Herod – fearful, holding back, intrigued but not surrendered – please break through their defenses right now. Let them see Jesus in His love and glory, arms open, scars in His hands, ready to save. Give them the courage to say, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe.’ And for my brothers and sisters who do know You, God, lead us deeper. Forgive us for the times we’ve treated Jesus as an afterthought. Today we freshly confess: Jesus, You are Lord of all. Be the center of our lives, our families, and our church this year. Help us shine Your light and speak Your name boldly to a confused world. Holy Spirit, move in each heart now to respond in obedience and faith. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.”

“…That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.” (Luke 1:4) May we go forth into this year with certainty about Jesus – who He is and whose we are – and may our lives loudly proclaim the glory of our Savior to a world still asking, “Who is this?” Let’s answer with conviction, in word and deed: He is the Christ, the Son of the living God, my Lord and my King – and I will serve Him forever. Amen.[1][14]

HYPERLINK "https://drive.google.com/file/d/17Cvq701mSFt6lMoXuAvm4DsAiB9Zhbvw" \h[1] [2] [4] [10] [13] 42-Luke.docx

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17Cvq701mSFt6lMoXuAvm4DsAiB9Zhbvw

[3] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [14] Rice, John_Luke - Chs 7-9.docx

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JUwqi-w4V2U7iJzV6tAmyEszc7IKTejo

[11] [12] 03 First Baptist Church of Westminster - Statement of Faith.docx

file://file-CJbqkSEZwr2kFUi68Udctm