Mistaken Identity
This presentation explores how people often misunderstand who Jesus truly is, much like characters in movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire or Lord of the Rings, where true identities are initially concealed. The setting is the Feast of Booths, an annual celebration commemorating God's faithfulness to Israel during their desert wandering, where Jesus appears among the first-century Jewish community.
The core message outlines three ways to "know the real Jesus":
1. Question Your Assumptions: The Jerusalem crowd mistakenly believed the Messiah's origin would be unknown, contradicting prophecies like Micah 5:2, which states he would be born in Bethlehem. This highlights the importance of relying on scripture as the authoritative revelation of God, rather than widespread but false assumptions.
2. Recognize that Jesus Knows the Truth: Jesus acknowledges that people knew him as a man but challenges their understanding of his divine nature, stating, "I have not come on my own accord; he who sent me is true and him you do not know". He distinguishes between "knowing about" God and truly "knowing" Him, presenting himself as the fulfillment of the Feast of Booths' promises – God's presence, provision, and the promised Messiah.
3. Believe in Jesus: Despite initial attempts to arrest him, many people believed in Jesus after witnessing his numerous signs and miracles, concluding that no one else could perform more. This belief is not merely intellectual assent but a commitment to follow him, likened to sheep faithfully following their shepherd's voice.
The presentation concludes by emphasizing Jesus's death on the cross as payment for sin, his resurrection, and the subsequent sending of the Holy Spirit, offering the hope of eternal salvation to those who believe and follow him.