Who are you?

In the Book of John Chapters 7 and 8, the people of Jerusalem are completely divided about who Jesus is. The words Jesus uses cause some to fear Him, and others to believe in Him. 

Some believe he is a Prophet, while others believe that “Surely He is the Christ,” (John 7:40). Both groups notice that there is something different about Jesus by the way He speaks. He speaks with authority, stating, “I am not here on my own, but He who sent me is true. I know Him because I am from Him and He sent me.” (John 8:28) And, He speaks with love, power and compassion as He offers those who are willing to believe in Him “streams of living water from within.” (John 7:38)

When you are asked the question, “Who are you?” How do you respond? Like Jesus, we are defined by the words we use. But, in order to know who we are, we must first know who Jesus is, the Son of the Father, the One who created us. We can’t answer the question, “Who are you?” without first being about to answer the question: Who is Jesus?

As a classic rock fan, The Who’s song Who Are You? comes to mind. Its lyrics describe a musician who has led a vagabond lifestyle of uncertainty and meaninglessness. He realizes that even after the acclaim from an illustrious career, he is still unsure of who he is. Seeking answers, this tired and worn-out musician says, “Eleven hours in the Tin Pan (Alley)…God there’s got to be another way… Who are you? You know I really want to know… my heart is like a broken cup.”

While the song was penned in 1978, the question asked is an anthem for today’s world where people are still searching for purpose and meaning. Neither the world, nor Daltry’s song provide an answer to the question, however Christ does. If you believe Jesus is who He says He is, then when people ask you, “Who are you?” you can, with certainty, respond: “I am His workmanship, and it is on His authority that I speak.”

DAVID PARKS

STATE DIRECTOR