What Kind of Messiah was Jesus?

DAY 263
6-23-10
MATTHEW 7-9

What was the Messiah supposed to do? Save the world from sin - of course – but also to show the love, compassion, and healing of God. He was to be “Immanuel – God with us.” (Matt. 1:23)

After the sermon on the mount, the people were so amazed at his teaching that they started following him everywhere. They were seeking more words of life and hope; and somehow they knew that this amazing Rabbi could do more. So the sick, the hungry, the sin-sick, those torn apart by the devil; and the scared found in Jesus what the world and religion could never do – heal lives, bodies, and souls.

This was what Isaiah said he would do. In 8:17, Matthew quotes Isaiah’s words – “He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” Did Jesus fulfill this prophecy? You be the judge. Notice Jesus’ words and actions when he was confronted by people with needs…

“I am willing.”
“I will go and heal him.”
“He touched her hand.”
“Healed all the sick.”
“Rebuked the winds and the waves.”
“Your sins are forgiven.”
"It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Jesus, the Messiah, cares for the real needs of all people.

Barry