August 7

What Think Ye of Christ

“But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” — Matt 16:15 BSB

What we personally think about Christ is far more important than what the world thinks of Him. We may be able to recite all the creeds and doctrines about Him, but the real question is: “Who do you say that I am? What do you think of Christ?”

It’s vitally important that we have the right view of who Christ is. Is He divine, or merely human? If He’s only human, we can gain some benefit from His teachings and His example, but that’s where it ends. In our times of struggle and temptation, we couldn’t turn to Him for personal help. No saint in heaven can give us strength in our weakness. They can’t reach down to lead, protect, or help us. If we fall, they can’t lift us up again. We can’t get help from John or Paul. If Jesus was just a good and holy man, He can’t do anything for us now, except through His teachings and example. But if He is divine, He can be everything we need—friend, helper, guide, comforter, and refuge. So, yes, it matters what we believe about the person of Christ. Doctrines are important.

But beyond the doctrinal question is an even more personal one: “What is Christ to you, personally? Is He just part of your creed? Do you only believe things about Him, or do you know Him as your own Savior, Friend, and Helper?” These are the questions that reveal where we stand in relation to Christ and eternal life. It’s not enough to hold orthodox opinions about Christ; only living faith in Him can save us.