Editor's Note:  

"Who is this man?!"  

We ask that of ourselves when we see or hear of someone who stands out -- who speaks or performs things out of the ordinary. We want to know because we are curious, and the person may impact our lives. The people in Jesus' day were asking that question about Jesus! And their answers depended on their positions, perspectives, and experiences. 

The Jews awaited a promised messiah who would conquer their enemies: a great military and political leader to end their suffering. Many Romans, especially their leaders, needed to know if Jesus was an insurrectionist or a threat to their power.  Jewish leaders were used to the peoples' honor and prided themselves on their learning and prestige. "Who is this upstart who is threatening our Jewish order?"  Probably, many people were just unsure.  

In the final week of Jesus' life, many Jews were feeling triumphant: this Jesus must be the messiah. He's healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted children, fulfilled prophecy, and confounded the Jewish leaders who've tried to trick him.  Maybe he is the One!   

Then, things went south. How could a savior be taken captive, crowned with thorns, stripped, mocked, and ultimately crucified?  He must be fake. Another disappointment.  The people turned on him.  "If God favors him, let's see God deliver him!"  

The Old Testament foretold this suffering. The next portion of Handel's Messiah is derived from Ps. 22: "All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; “He trusts in the Lord; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”
Who could make up a story like this: a savior who is mocked, beaten, and crucified, and thereby saves from sin and death? What God suffers out of love and compassion?  

WHO IS THIS MAN?  It is worth every effort to find out, for life depends on it. Jesus says, 

"I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE."

Video Performance (3:21)

27. Accompagnato (tenor) – “All they that see him laugh him to scorn: they shoot out their lips, and shake their heads, saying,” (Psalm 22, v.7)

28. Chorus – “He trusted in God that he would deliver him: let him deliver him, if he delight in him.” (Psalm 22, v.8)