Ponderings

Who is Jesus?

Rev. Graeme Scorringe

There are many who seem to scoff at Christianity and decry the claims that it makes about itself. These people point to the failings of the church and point out its failings over the twenty odd centuries of its existence. There are others that point to the many good things that the church has done, and indeed continues to do, whilst others point to the enormous positive effect Christianity has had on society in general, particularly in terms of morality and social responsibility.

It's hard to believe that this religion, this influence emanated from one historical person. That person was Jesus of Nazareth. So who is Jesus? Is he as Christians around the world claim — the Son of God? Or was he just some incredibly gifted prophet or great moral teacher?

It is interesting to note that Jesus asked two questions of his disciples (whom he had spent more than three years mentoring and coaching), namely, 'Who do people say I am' and 'Who do you say I am' (Matt 16:13&15). The disciples answered the first question by saying, 'some say you are John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others say, Jeremiah or one of the prophets' (Matt 16:14). In answering the second question, Simon Peter answered, 'You are the Christ the Son of the living God'.

It seems to me that at some point in our life we need to answer the question about Jesus' identity. You see, I can dismiss him if he is just another great moral teacher espousing some sort of scarcely relevant philosophy, but if he is the Son of God — surely I have to take his teachings, lifestyle, and claims seriously.

At Brighton Baptist Church we invite you to explore these questions and others that you might have about Christianity in a relaxed, friendly and non threatening environment through your attendance at ALPHA which runs on Tuesday nights (7:00pm-9:00pm @ 164 Bay St, Brighton) over coffee and cake. There is no need to book — just turn up with your questions.

For more information regarding this article, email