Episode #188: Identity Crisis
“And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.” (Mark 6:2-3)
Jesus is teaching in His hometown of Nazareth. Many are in attendance including His family. You would think this would be where Jesus was accepted more than anywhere else. After all, this was his hometown. However, those that knew His background and His family would reject Him. They knew Mary was pregnant with Him before she was married to Joseph. They knew Jesus had not been officially taught like the Priests of the Temple.
They only saw Him as the carpenter. The identity they assigned to Jesus was based on what they knew of His family history and His Dad’s occupation. They didn’t yet see that Jesus had already fulfilled prophecy. They were blinded by their own beliefs about Him. Fortunately, Jesus was fully aware of His identity and didn’t get sidetracked by their unbelief in Him. Jesus was amazed at their unbelief, but He continued to teach. He was amazed but not discouraged because He knew His true identity was not found in the opinions of man.
We can be assured that when we follow Jesus, we too will be rejected by those who know our background. We cannot be discouraged by their lack of belief in our change. We must stay on mission! We must remain steadfast and hold to our identity in Christ regardless of how the world may view us. Jesus would continue to teach in His hometown. He would continue on His mission all the way to His death on the Cross and His resurrection three days later.
Let us be a people who find our identity in no one other than Jesus Christ. Because of His perseverance and obedience to follow through with the assignment given to Him by the Father, we have new life, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration. Praise God for the bloody Cross! Praise God for the empty tomb! Let’s celebrate today with the praise and worship that His obedience and sacrifice truly deserve!
Love Y’all! Be Blessed!
Let Us Be A People 