Why do we talk about Jesus? // M-Note 6.29.22

Recently someone asked me, “Matt, why do you talk about Jesus so much?” They went on to explain that they usually think more broadly about God. After all, God is universal, encompassing a lot of viewpoints, perspectives, and traditions. But Jesus. He seems so…specific! They confessed to me that they struggle thinking about Jesus, especially equating him with God.

They aren’t alone. I think this person sums up the wonderings and doubts of a lot of us. It is easy (or at least easier) to think about God, but a specific historical person named Jesus who healed the sick, walked on water, and rose from the dead? That is a bit harder! So why is Jesus so central to our faith?

The answer is simple. In a world full of people who can define “God” in all sorts of ways, Jesus shows us what God is really like. The idea of God is so general, that we can make that idea mean almost anything we want. And many of the ways that we fill in the blank are not at all who we believe God is. We live in a world where people use God to justify violence, bolster exclusions, promote fear, and solidify power. 

The same was true 2000 years ago. That is why God had to come down to earth to show us who God really was. The author of Hebrews says this about Jesus,

“He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being”. ‭‭Hebrews ‭1‬:‭3

In other words, if you want to know what God is really like, look at Jesus. God is one who eats with sinners, serves the poor, challenges the rich, includes the outcasts, criticizes the religious, and challenges the thinking of the people who think they know who God is. 

Beginning next week, we are starting a new series called Hello, I am Jesus! I will be talking about some of the most important things we believe about Jesus, and how he helps us understand who God really is. It is the perfect time to invite a friend who may have real questions about church, Jesus, or what they really believe. So bring them with you. 

July is going to be a great month to be in worship. Along with the new series, we will be highlighting some of our mission partners, talking about ways you can serve others, and looking ahead to new groups beginning soon. 

So plan to make worship part of your weekly rhythm this summer. And if you are gone for a week, make sure to catch up and listen online. Have a great Friday, and I can’t wait to see you in worship.

Peace,
Matt

P.S. This weekend, The Gathering will be at PRIDE and we hope to see you there! For more information or to sign up to serve, check out our website.