Overview:
Pastor Chuck Swindoll asks, “What one word would you use to describe Jesus? Amazing? Compassionate? Faithful? Forgiving? Life-giving? Loving? The word he chooses: FASCINATING.
Jesus did the unpredictable to accomplish the incredible. Fascinating!
When we see Jesus’ extraordinary, unexpected, fascinating perfection, we simultaneously see our own imperfection. Though depravity infects all humanity (except Jesus), thankfully we have the gospel to guide us to Christlikeness. Study along in Mark 10:46–11:10 as Pastor Chuck leads you toward a better understanding of your Lord and to an ever-growing Christlikeness.
Message Summary:
In “Why Is Jesus So Fascinating?” Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the timeless and magnetic appeal of the most controversial figure in history. Centuries after His death, Jesus Christ remains the primary subject of art, literature, debate, and devotion. Swindoll directs our attention to the region of Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus posed the ultimate question to His disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” This message examines why Jesus continues to fascinate the world and emphasizes that while public opinion is varied and interesting, only a personal confession of His Lordship leads to a transformed life.
Message Key Facts:
- The Centerpiece of History: Jesus’ life was brief and His travels were limited, yet He remains the most discussed and influential person to ever live.
- The Setting of the Question: The conversation took place in Caesarea Philippi, a region known for its many shrines to pagan gods, providing a stark backdrop for the revelation of the one true Christ.
- The Variety of Opinions: In the first century, as today, people tried to categorize Jesus as a great teacher, a prophet, or a social revolutionary (likening Him to John the Baptist or Elijah).
- The Necessity of Revelation: Jesus makes it clear that a correct understanding of His identity is not a result of human logic (“flesh and blood”) but a gift of divine revelation from the Father.
- The Great Confession: Peter’s declaration—”You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”—stands as the foundational rock upon which the Church is built.
Message References:
1. The Survey of Public Opinion (Matthew 16:13–14)
Jesus begins by asking His disciples about the “buzz” in the streets.
- Who do people say that I am? The disciples report a range of impressive titles: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.
- The Inadequacy of “Greatness”: While these comparisons were complimentary, they were ultimately incorrect. Jesus is not merely another “great man” in a long line of prophets.
2. The Direct Personal Question (Matthew 16:15)
Jesus narrows the focus from the crowds to the individuals who knew Him best.
- “But who do YOU say that I am?” This is the most important question anyone will ever answer. It demands a personal verdict that transcends cultural trends or inherited beliefs.
3. The Confession of the Christ (Matthew 16:16)
Peter, acting as the spokesman for the group, provides the definitive answer.
- The Christ: Identifying Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the Anointed One of God.
- The Son of the Living God: Acknowledging His deity and His unique relationship with the Father.
4. The Source of the Solution (Matthew 16:17)
Jesus highlights that this truth is spiritually discerned.
- Blessed are You: Realizing the truth about Jesus brings a divine blessing.
- Divine Disclosure: Peter didn’t figure this out through study or observation alone; it was revealed to him by “My Father who is in heaven.”
