As I eluded to in my previous blog the way
we view Jesus has changed over time, this may have been to fit a image of Jesus
needed at a certain time, change of theology or even a misinterpretation of the
bible. Even with the benefit of seeing the Old Testament scriptures fulfilled
by Jesus and the gospels detailing Jesus we still struggle to understand who
Jesus and what he was like. It is with no
doubt that Jesus was to be the Messiah and be fulfilled this role by selflessly
dying an innocent man on the cross. This selflessness, the image of a man
giving without expecting anything in return is the subtle undertone of Jesus
ministry and life. Like for example in the wedding at Cana Jesus was not
supplying a need, the people didn’t need the wine to survive it was more a
want. Not only did he do it, he did it to abundance wanting people to enjoy the
time.[1]
The gospels paint a clear picture that
Jesus was a man of action and of looking out for God’s children. This ranges
from healing people to being a Sheppard guiding people in the ways of God and
teaching them love, a love that God has for them and for us to have to each
other. Jesus identifies himself as being the good Sheppard in John 10:14 for
his flock to take refuge in him. This image sets a precedent that Jesus is a
leader that we are to follow and model our actions on.[2]
Jesus use of the good Sheppard would have been a strategic move when ministering
to the Jews, as the y would have heard that reference and realised that Jesus
was referring to the good Sheppard of Psalm 23.
We can see that Jesus is saviour, provider
(off all our needs)[3],
shelter and a leader to his people from the gospel and from specific claims he
makes and invites to make the connection to. There has been a real danger that
throughout the early life of the church and the early writings about Jesus that
the image of him which was presented could have been shaped and moulded to fit
the perfect ideal Jesus. Although the scripture itself may not have been
changed the images taken from scripture were in danger of being shaped.[4]
To counter this contemporary study of the apostolic Christ has sought to return
to the roots of whom Jesus is; the real man not philosophical romanticism of what
his principles are.
We know from external writings that Jesus
was a real person who existed at a real time, in a real place with real people.
We also know what the culture of that day was and what shaping influences existed
that would have affected Jesus. Exploring Jesus’ life as a man in ancient Israel
allows us to see why Jesus made the claims he did and why he would commence such
a dangerous mission in a completely volatile environment.
 |
| I find this Jesus looks into you. |
[4] Jesus Christ: The Witness of History, Anderson J., pg 28, 1985 2nd Edition, Intervarsity Press, Downers Grove, USA
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