Matthew 27:22 “Then what shall I do with Jesus, who is called Christ?”
I enjoy reviewing the account of the lame beggar found in Acts chapter 3. Peter and John encountered this man at the temple gate, begging. (Reminds me of my time living in New Orleans and walking from the bus each morning to my workplace. Beggars lined the streets with their cups and their pleadings.)
When Peter and John stopped, the man received many things (time, attention, hope, ministry, touch). But if their attention toward him stopped there, he would have still been left in his hopelessness and lost-ness. In Peter’s own words, “I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the Name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene—-walk!” (Acts 3:6) And he arose and walked with them into the temple!
People were amazed! Yet Peter spoke with the people saying: “On the basis of faith in His name, it is the name of Jesus (Who is called Christ) which has strengthened this man whom you see and know; and the faith which comes through Him has given him perfect health in the presence of you all.” (Acts 3:16)
When we share the story of Jesus (Who is called Christ) and speak only of what they will gain, trying to convince or “win them over” we cheapen the Grace of the Cross and diminish the price this One called Christ paid on Calvary’s brutal Cross!
When we share His story, it must be the complete story. We are dead in our sins. We are headed to hell. We can not pay the price God demands for our pardon. God has provided the payment for us. His Beloved Son! Jesus, Who is called Christ! This One called Christ is the Holy One of Israel. He is
God. He is the Resurrected Savior for all who will call upon Him in repentance, sorrow and faith. He is the Perfect One. He is the Chosen One. He is the Crucified One. He is the Risen One. He is the Only One!