Misconceptions of Jesus and His Church

Matthew 22:41-46

Question of His Identity

Asked the disciples one time (Matthew 16:13-19)

Asked the Pharisees (Matthew 22:42)

Denied by atheists

Admittedly a historical figure

H.G. Wells had a whole chapter about Him in his book on world history

Misconceptions of Jesus

Origin: just a man– Son of David, just a man

(Matthew 22:42)

– H.G. Wells: “We will paint him just as he appears to be, a man.”

– Some asked if He was just a carpenter (Luke 4:16-29)

– Born of a virgin (Matthew 1:23)

Misconceptions of Jesus

Position: one among many– Recall His question (Matthew 16:17)

– Unique, God in the flesh (John 1:14, 15)

– “The way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6)

– “Bread of life” and “light of the world” (John 6:35; 8:12)

Misconceptions of Jesus

Mission: earthly– Jews saw Him feed 5,000 and wanted to

crown Him king (John 6:15)

– Wanted to overthrow the Roman Empire

– Mission was redemptive, not political (Luke 19:10)

Misconceptions of Jesus

Plans: embarrassed– Embarrassed by Him

(Mark 3:20-22; 6:3)

– Foolish to reject Him (Isaiah 53:3; 55:8, 9)

Misconceptions of His Church

Origin: human– All denominations came from men

– Lord’s church has no human founder or head (Matthew 16:16-18)

– Established on Pentecost (Acts 2)

Misconceptions of His Church

Position: one among many– “One church is as good as another”

– Only “one body” (Ephesians 4:4, 5)

– Church composed of all the saved (Acts 2:47; Ephesians 5:23)

Misconceptions of His Church

Mission: earthly– Turn the church into a Red Cross

operation

– Church’s mission is spiritual (1 Timothy 3:15)

– Jesus came to “seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10)

Misconceptions of His Church

Plans: embarrassed– Not happy with it (Ephesians 5:23-26)

– Seeking entertainment , popularity

– Must preach Christ (Acts 4:10; 1 Corinthians 1:23; 2:2)

Conclusion

Let us not be misinformed or ashamed

He died to purchase the church