Jesus Reigns預覽

JESUS: WORTHY TO BE THE MESSIAH

As far as Isaiah was concerned, Jesus was not the wrong one: it was the people's perception and their response to Christ that were wrong. Had they listened well, and carefully read Isaiah, they would have known and reacted rightly.

The Messiah would have a humble origin. Jesus had no bearings or trappings of royalty. In the New Testament, there was hardly a record, except for one, Luke 2:46, following the youthful excellence of this carpenter's son. Because of His lowly background, hardly anyone considered it worthwhile to monitor the progress of His life, except maybe His earthly parents, some shepherds and His heavenly Father.

The Messiah would have no appealing appearance. No one would ever give Him a second glance; He had nothing to attract people to Him. Unlike Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Saul, David or Absalom, the coming Servant in Isaiah would not merit a second look. Even though He came from a humble origin and His face was not appealing, many noticed Him because He spoke with much authority.

The Messiah would be socially unacceptable. Yes, people might be intrigued to hear from Him, but in the long run they felt disgusted about Him. Who would want to be with someone who was an embodiment of sorrow and pain. He seemed to make you feel guilty when you enjoy the pleasures of this life. His presence was "thorn in the flesh" of the people of His day. He not only made you feel bad about yourself, acquaintance with Him might court some trouble. It was not surprising that even His disciple, Peter, denied having been associated with Him.

Furthermore, He was "like one from whom men hide their faces." It was as if, He has bad breath, offensive odor and disgusting looks, all at the same time. No wonder, theologian Ridderbos aptly summarized His personality when he said, "He has everything that repels a person."

Yet, despite all these, we all know that Jesus is the only One who is worthy to receive honor, glory and He is the only One who is highly exalted and His name be bestowed above all other names.