The Christ We Confess
Who is Jesus? This question has echoed through the centuries, sparking debate, inspiring devotion, and challenging hearts. It's not just a historical inquiry or a theological exercise—it's a deeply personal question that demands our attention and shapes our lives.
Many people have their own ideas about Jesus. Some see Him as a wise teacher, others as a revolutionary figure, and still others as a symbol of love and compassion. But are these perspectives enough? Do they capture the whole reality of who Jesus is?
The Bible presents a far more profound and transformative picture of Jesus Christ. He is not just another religious figure or moral example—He is the eternal Son of God, the sovereign Lord over all creation, and the one who demands our allegiance.
Let's start with Jesus' identity as the eternal Son of God. The Gospel of John opens with a stunning declaration: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This echoes the opening of Genesis, placing Jesus at the very dawn of creation. He is not a created being, but the eternal Word through whom all things were made.
But the truly astounding claim comes in John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us." The eternal, divine Word took on human nature, entering our world to reveal God and redeem us. Jesus experienced the full range of human emotions and experiences—hunger, sorrow, pain, and even death—while remaining fully God. He is the meeting place between God and humanity, the one in whom we can see the very glory of God displayed.
This eternal Son is not just present at creation—He is supreme over it. In a beautiful hymn-like passage in Colossians 1, the apostle Paul declares that Jesus is "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." Everything was created by Him, through Him, and for Him. He is the keystone that holds the entire structure of creation together.
But Jesus' lordship extends beyond creation. He is also the head of the church, the source of its life, and the pioneer of a new humanity through His resurrection. Through His death on the cross, He brings reconciliation, defeating hostile powers and pledging the renewal of all creation.
This cosmic authority of Christ challenges us to see Him as more than just a personal Savior. As Abraham Kuyper famously said, "There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is sovereign over all, does not cry, 'Mine!'" Our understanding of Jesus must be big enough to encompass His lordship over every aspect of life and creation.
Given who Jesus is, the most crucial question we can ever answer is the one He asked His own disciples: "Who do you say that I am?" In a powerful scene recorded in Matthew 16, Jesus brings this question home to His followers. Surrounded by the idolatry of Caesarea Philippi, Peter steps forward with a bold confession: "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."
This confession is not just about accumulating correct information about Jesus. It's about moving from admiration to allegiance, from curiosity to commitment. Confessing Jesus as Christ and the Son of God means acknowledging His authority and receiving Him as Lord. It's not just words—it's a surrender of our lives.
Importantly, this confession doesn't come from our own clever deductions. Jesus tells Peter, "Flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven." Recognizing Jesus for who He truly is is a gift of divine revelation. This should humble us and remind us of our dependence on God's grace even in our understanding of Christ.
Why does this confession matter so much? Here are a few key reasons:
Jesus defines Himself. We don't get to craft a Jesus who fits our preferences or cultural moment. Our task is to confess the Jesus who reigns over all.
Confession moves us from information to allegiance. Many can repeat facts about Jesus, but confession means staking our lives on those truths.
Revelation creates courage. When God opens our hearts to who Jesus is, we can speak boldly even in hostile environments.
Neutrality is impossible. Jesus doesn't ask how we feel about Him—He demands a decision. Silence or indifference is still a choice.
Confession orders our lives. When we truly confess Christ as Lord, it reshapes our priorities, relationships, use of time and money—everything comes under His authority.
This confession of Jesus as Lord isn't just a one-time event. It's meant to be the banner over our entire lives. Just as wedding vows transform a relationship, our confession of Christ should continually transform how we live.
For those who have never surrendered to Christ, today is the day to move from admiration to allegiance. Bow the knee and confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior. For those who already bear His name, let your life echo your confession. Let His lordship shape every aspect of your existence.
Remember, a day is coming when "every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:10-11). The only question is whether we will confess Him now in faith or then in fear.
Who do you say Jesus is? It's not just an academic question—it's the most important decision you'll ever make. May we have the grace to see Him clearly, confess Him boldly, and follow Him faithfully as the eternal Son of God and sovereign Lord over all.
