The Messiah

In the ancient world, the Jewish people were looking out for a special liberator; someone to defeat their enemies and rule in peace & prosperity.

They called this figure the 'Messiah'.

In the year 135, Simon Bar Kochba was hailed as "King Messiah" by some. But in that same year, he was tortured and died, proving to his Jewish followers that he could not be the Messiah. One rabbi said that the true Messiah 'will only be demonstrated by success'.

Torture and death was not success.

So then, why was Jesus declared Messiah by His followers? For He was also tortured, and died.

Well, maybe it was because Jesus didn't stay dead.

For the good news of the Christian message is that Jesus is the Messiah; and He has been raised from the dead, so He can be called the 'king of kings', bringing all His followers true salvation and hope.