Most people recognized Christ as a great teacher, they welcomed His humanitarian gentleness and were impressed by His power. However, the most critical part was the one about His personal identity.
Again and again the question was asked “Who are you?” John the Baptist sent a delegation to ask Jesus “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” (Matt 11:3) Remember Jesus often asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” When Jesus was on trial, the question that was finally asked, was the one the High Priest Caiaphas asked, saying “I demand in the name of the living God that you tell us whether you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” (Matt 26:63)
“Who is Jesus?” It is still the most important question. Jesus tells us plainly that He is the Son of God. His word is the truth. This gives us certainty of our faith. Why? Because our faith is grounded in Christ’s extreme sacrifice of love, His death and payment for our sins. He gave Himself to awaken our faith in Him as the Son of God and the Only Savior of the world.
Therefore, Brothers and Sisters, we have hope in Christ. Not just help, strength, comfort and relief for this life, but hope for the eternal life into which the Good Shepherd has promised to lead His flock.
Amen.