27 Oct Who is Jesus?

Who Is Jesus Overview

In this powerful sermon, Dr. William Holman explores the fundamental question ‘Who is Jesus?’ by examining John 1:1-5, revealing Jesus as the eternal Word of God who existed from the beginning. The message emphasizes that Jesus is not merely a good teacher or prophet, but the very essence of God who created all things. Dr. Holman introduces the concept of ‘bending over backwards’ – while humans often become frustrated when our extra efforts go unappreciated, Jesus never stops extending Himself for us. The sermon highlights how our true value and potential can only be realized through Christ, as without Him, nothing was made that has been made. Through worship and biblical foundation, the congregation is reminded that Jesus is the light that shines in darkness, and that light gives life to all mankind. This foundational message sets the stage for understanding our identity and purpose through the lens of who Jesus truly is.

Who Is Jesus Outline

• 0:00 – Worship and Praise: Opening worship with songs focusing on the name and power of Jesus
• 15:00 – Announcements and Offering: Church updates including upcoming guest speaker Dr. Carol Elaine and fall events
• 25:00 – Teaching on Faithful Giving: Message about tithing as commitment to God, not just tipping a waiter
• 35:00 – Introduction to ‘Who is Jesus’ Series: Pastor William Holman begins part two of the series on Jesus’ identity
• 40:00 – The Concept of Bending Over Backwards: Exploring how Jesus never stops extending Himself despite lack of appreciation
• 45:00 – John 1:1-5 Foundation: Deep dive into Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God and was God
• 50:00 – Our Value Through Christ: Understanding how Jesus brings out our true worth and potential

Scripture References

John 1:1-5, Genesis 1:1-5

Key Takeaways

• Jesus is the eternal Word of God who existed from the beginning and created all things that exist.
• Our true value and potential can only be realized through Jesus Christ, not through our own merit.
• Unlike humans who get frustrated when going the extra mile, Jesus never stops extending Himself for us.
• Faithful giving should be seen as commitment to God, not just tipping based on how well we think He served us.
• Jesus is the light that shines in darkness, and this light gives life to all mankind.
• Without Jesus, nothing was made that has been made – He is the creator of all existence.
• Understanding who Jesus truly is becomes the foundation for understanding our own identity and purpose.

Who Is Jesus Notes

Dr. William Holman opens this foundational sermon by addressing one of the most important questions any person can ask: ‘Who is Jesus?’ This isn’t merely an academic exercise but a life-defining inquiry that determines our eternal destiny and daily purpose. The pastor begins with a relatable concept – the idea of ‘bending over backwards’ for someone. We’ve all experienced moments where we’ve gone above and beyond for others, only to feel unappreciated or even betrayed. This human tendency to withdraw our efforts when not properly acknowledged stands in stark contrast to the character of Jesus Christ.The sermon’s biblical foundation rests firmly on John 1:1-5, one of the most profound passages in Scripture regarding Christ’s divine nature. ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.’ This verse establishes Jesus not as a created being or a mere prophet, but as the eternal God Himself. The Word (Logos in Greek) represents God’s creative power, wisdom, and revelation to humanity. Jesus didn’t become God at His birth in Bethlehem; He has always been God, existing in perfect unity with the Father from eternity past.Dr. Holman emphasizes that Jesus is the creator of all things – ‘without Him nothing was made that was made.’ This truth revolutionizes our understanding of reality itself. Every atom, every star, every breath we take exists because of Jesus Christ. This cosmic perspective helps us understand why our lives seem incomplete without Him. We were created by Him and for Him, so naturally, we find our greatest fulfillment in relationship with our Creator.The pastor also addresses the practical implications of this truth for daily living. In a world that often makes us feel insignificant or worthless, Jesus reveals our true value. Not because we’re inherently valuable, but because the Creator of the universe loves us enough to never stop ‘bending over backwards’ for us. While human relationships may disappoint us when we extend ourselves sacrificially, Jesus continues His relentless pursuit of our hearts regardless of our response.This message also touches on faithful stewardship, challenging the congregation to view their giving not as tipping God based on His performance, but as a committed response to His unchanging faithfulness. Just as Jesus never withdraws His love based on our appreciation, our giving should reflect unwavering commitment rather than conditional response to circumstances.

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