Watch the video above and talk about it with a group or mentor. Learn more.
Jesus's followers know who they think he was, but what about Jesus himself? Did he really want people to believe he was God, or did later Christians make up this idea about him?
Key Points:
- Jesus claimed to be the messiah (meaning “anointed one” or “chosen one”). The Jews expected this messiah to bring military victory and spiritual renewal to Israel (Zechariah 9:9).
- Jesus claimed to be the son of God in a unique sense (Matthew 21:33-46). Not “a” son of man, but “the” son of man (Daniel 7:13-14; Mark 14:61-62).
- By calling himself the messiah, the son of God, and the son of man, Jesus was claiming to be the very God his accusers worshipped.
- Jesus also claimed authority to perform miracles, cast out demons, revise the Law of Moses (“Torah”) and forgive sins.
- Jesus’s self-understanding cannot be reduced simply to that of a Jewish teacher or charismatic leader. He behaved as much more and claimed to be much more.
Quote This:
Mark 8:29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.”
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read Matthew 21:33-46. What do you think is the point of this parable of Jesus?
- Read Daniel 7:13-14 and Mark 14:61-62. Why do you think Jesus refers to himself as the son of man?
- Why do you think Jesus was so opposed by the Jewish leaders in Israel?
- Read Mark 8:29. Who do you say Jesus is? Why?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
