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