Who Is This?

The last week of Jesus’ life on earth was a roller coaster of events. The week begins on what we call Palm Sunday as Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey while the crowds followed Him shouting: “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!” (Matthew 21:9, NIV).

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” Then Matthew records: “The crowds answered, ‘This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee’” (Matthew 21:11, NIV).

How would you answer this question about Jesus: Who is this? During the next week, Jesus would show so much of who He is.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Judge who cleanses the temple of religious leaders who were taking advantage of the religious system for their own gain.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Teacher as He describes to His followers who He is and the spiritual significance of what would transpire later in the week.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Servant as He takes up the bowl and towel and washes the feet of His disciples.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Praying One who pours out His soul to His Father in the Garden of Gethsemane.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Submissive One as He willingly allows Himself to be arrested by the Roman soldiers and led off for trial.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Restrained One as He goes through the trials knowing that He could stop the entire process with one simple command, but He is obedient to the will of His Heavenly Father.

Jesus shows Himself to be the Loving One who takes the lashes from His undeserved flogging as He makes possible our spiritual healing: “By His wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5).

Jesus shows Himself to be the Unblemished Lamb who is the ultimate sacrifice to pay the penalty for our sin. Jesus lays on the cross to have the spikes driven through His hands and feet. The cross is hoisted into position and secured. The blood of redemption flows down that Old Rugged Cross: “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” (John 1:29, NIV).

Jesus shows Himself to be the Victor who wins the battle over death, hell, and the grave. With the resurrection, Jesus makes possible our victory over sin and death: “But, thanks be to God! He gives the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57, NIV).

Jesus shows Himself to be King of kings and Lord of lords as He ascends into heaven and takes His rightful place on His throne as the Lord God Almighty: “On his (Jesus’) robe and on his thigh he has the name written: King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16, NIV).

Do you know Jesus in all of these ways? If not, this Easter season, I pray that you will.