What do You Think About Christ? Matthew 22:42

INTRODUCTION:

In Matthew 22:42, Jesus poses a pivotal question to the Pharisees: "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?" This question cuts to the heart of Jesus' identity and demands a response that reveals one's understanding of His person and mission. Similarly, Jesus' question echoes through the ages, challenging each of us: What do we think or believe about Christ?

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I. WHAT DID THE SAINTS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT THINK OR FEEL?

The Old Testament, through prophecy and foreshadowing, reveals profound insights into the coming Messiah.

• A. Isaiah thought about Christ. His prophecies are rich with descriptions of the Messiah's character and role. For example, in Isaiah 9:6, he declares: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

◦ Discussion: How does this powerful description from Isaiah shape our understanding of who Christ is? What aspects of His character and role are highlighted here?

II. WHAT DID THE NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS THINK?

Those who encountered Jesus firsthand and were illuminated by the Holy Spirit had a clearer understanding of His identity.

• A. Peter thought of Christ. His confession in Matthew 16:16 is foundational: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Later, recognizing His divine holiness, Peter declared in John 6:69: "And we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God."

◦ Discussion: What is the significance of Peter's confession that Jesus is both the Christ (Messiah) and the Son of the living God? How does the title "Holy One of God" speak to Jesus' nature?

• B. Paul knew in whom he had believed, and that He is able to keep him to the end (II Timothy 1:12). Paul's unwavering confidence was rooted in his personal encounter with the resurrected Christ and his deep conviction in His power and faithfulness.

◦ Discussion: What does it mean to "know in whom you have believed"? How does Paul's confidence encourage us in our own faith journey?

III. WHAT DID HIS ENEMIES THINK OF CHRIST?

The opinions of Jesus' adversaries were varied and often driven by misunderstanding, fear, and opposition.

• A. Many thought He was John the Baptist, others Elijah, others Jeremiah or one of the prophets (Matthew 16:14). These views, while acknowledging Jesus as a significant figure, failed to grasp His unique divine identity.

◦ Discussion: Why do you think people held these different views of Jesus? What prevented them from recognizing Him as the Messiah?

• The officers sent to arrest Him were so captivated by His teaching that they returned empty-handed, saying: "Never has anyone spoken like this man!" (John 7:46). Even those tasked with apprehending Him were struck by His extraordinary authority and eloquence.

◦ Discussion: What does the reaction of the officers reveal about the power and uniqueness of Jesus' words?

• The centurion who witnessed His crucifixion, amidst the miraculous signs, exclaimed: "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Matthew 27:54). This Gentile soldier, an unlikely witness, recognized Jesus' divine nature in the face of His suffering and death.

◦ Discussion: What was it about Jesus' crucifixion and the accompanying events that led the centurion to this profound conclusion?

• For the priests, Christ was a blasphemer (Matthew 26:65). They saw His claims of divinity as a direct affront to God and a violation of religious law.

◦ Discussion: Why did the religious leaders consider Jesus a blasphemer? What were the core issues of their conflict with Him?

• Many thought of Jesus as merely "the son of Joseph" (John 6:42), focusing on His human lineage and overlooking His divine origin. This limited perspective prevented them from seeing His true identity.

◦ Discussion: How can focusing solely on Jesus' humanity without acknowledging His divinity lead to a misunderstanding of His person and work?

• Many thought Christ was good, but others thought he was evil and misled people (John 7:12). Public opinion was divided, reflecting the conflicting interpretations of His teachings and actions.

◦ Discussion: Why do you think there were such contrasting views about Jesus during His earthly ministry? How does this compare to the diverse opinions about Him today?

IV. What do you think about Christ?

Jesus' question to His disciples echoes to us today. What is our personal understanding and belief about Him?

• Jesus asked his disciples a question: What did they think about Christ? Christ asks us this same question. What do we think about him? This is a deeply personal and eternally significant question.

• It is up to us what we believe about Christ. But the Bible affirms that he is the Son of God (Matthew 3:17). While individual interpretations may vary, the Scriptures unequivocally declare Jesus' divine sonship, affirmed by God the Father Himself at His baptism: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

◦ Personal Reflection: What is your personal answer to Jesus' question? What do you believe about His identity, His work, and His significance for your life? How has the Bible shaped your understanding of Him?

What do You Think About Christ? Matthew 22:42

CONCLUSION:

Our understanding of who Jesus Christ is has eternal implications. The Old Testament pointed to Him, the New Testament saints recognized Him, even His enemies were confronted by His unique nature. The question remains for each of us: What do we think about Christ? Our answer will determine our relationship with Him and our eternal destiny. Let us diligently study the Scriptures and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to arrive at a true and life-transforming understanding of Jesus, the Son of God, our Lord and Savior. May our hearts and minds be open to the full revelation of who He is.

What do You Think About Christ? Matthew 22:42