In the 2002 football World Cup, Brazilian superstar striker Ronaldo changed his hairstyle after Brazil defeated England. He did so because his infant son confused him with another teammate, Roberto Carlos—a rather unfortunate case of mistaken identity!

Jesus also suffered from mistaken identity. On earth He taught the Word and ways of God with authority. He healed the sick, raised the dead and did many miracles before the people. But when He claimed to be one with God, and said that He had been sent to die for the world and lead us to new life, many rejected Him. They accused Him, saying “He’s demon possessed and out of His mind. Why listen to a man like that?” (John 10:20).

There seems to be some logic in this. Jesus’ claim is huge! It requires us to give our whole lives to Him. Yet some of His listeners said, “Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” (v.21).

It was important for Ronaldo to make his identity clear to his son; it is far more crucial that Jesus made Himself clear to us. God proved Jesus’ words beyond doubt when He raised Him from the dead, just as Jesus promised. We must carefully consider Jesus’ identity and words to know whether we want to trust Him with our lives.

Author

Chris Wale

Topics

Our Daily Bread