July 18, 2015 - Church at Worship

In one of the most dramatic scenes in the Bible (Matthew 27:15-21, New International Version), two men stand shoulder to shoulder, and they are both named Jesus. One is a mighty warrior—a man who gets things done no matter what the risk or cost. He has dedicated his life to freeing the downtrodden and helping the oppressed. By many he is viewed as a savior, a redeemer. Now he stands on trial for a crime that many others have imagined committing a thousand times themselves. Next to him, the other Jesus seems more like a pushover; in fact, he’s even been overheard telling people to not only give in to the demands of the imperial Romans but to give them twice as much as they ask. He is disruptive. He’s not only sacrilegious, but he also has a smart mouth around the highest spiritual leaders of the church. The first Jesus fought for them. The second Jesus caused them to fight each other. The first gave everything to give his followers what they wanted. The second asked his followers to give everything for what he wanted. The first was confident. The second was confusing. The first called himself the “son of the father.” The second called himself the “Son of God.” One seems reasonable. The other seems ridiculous.

Had you been part of the onlookers in this incredible scene, which Jesus would you choose? In light of today’s traditional view of God and why we follow Him, we must ask ourselves the same question. Which Jesus would you choose? The answer may surprise you.

Roy Ice

Pastor for Resource Development