Why Jesus?
What are we really searching for?
Most people, at some point, feel a quiet ache—like something important is missing. Even in seasons of success or happiness, we sense there must be more.
That longing isn’t a flaw. It’s a signal.
Christianity teaches that we were created to live in close relationship with God. And Jesus came to restore that relationship—not through religion, but through presence.
It begins in conversation. We call it prayer—an honest, ongoing dialogue with the God who made us, knows us, and still invites us home.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
How did Jesus live?
Jesus didn’t just speak truth—he embodied it.
He healed the sick, lifted up the overlooked, challenged injustice, and embraced those religion had pushed away.
But what made him most remarkable wasn’t just what he did, but how he lived.
Jesus walked in humility. He didn’t grasp for status. He knelt and washed feet. He led by serving. He revealed a God who doesn’t demand performance but draws near with compassion.
To follow Jesus is to follow this way of living—a way that values presence over pride, and surrender over self.
Why did Jesus have to die?
Jesus said he came “to give his life as a ransom for many.” His death wasn’t a tragic end to a good life. It was a deliberate act of love.
At the cross, he took on the weight of all that separates us from God—our failures, regrets, and wrongs—not to condemn us, but to forgive and restore.
This is where the grace and truth of Jesus meet us:
It’s His truth that confronts brokenness, and His grace that meets brokenness with mercy.
“God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8
Did Jesus really rise from the dead?
According to the earliest eyewitnesses, yes! Jesus appeared to hundreds. His closest followers, once fearful, were emboldened— even willing to die for what they saw.
The resurrection isn’t just a miracle; it’s a turning point.
If it’s true, then Jesus is alive and that changes everything.
Following him today requires courage.
Not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it. Jesus doesn’t promise comfort. He offers transformation and restoration for all with the help of the Holy Spirit.
What does Jesus invite us into?
Jesus offers us new life.
A life of:
Freedom from guilt — we are not defined by your worst moments
Freedom from fear — death doesn’t get the final word
Freedom to grow — his Spirit reshapes us from the inside out
Freedom to love well — for our church ‘ohana, our restoration and transformation makes us people who are…
Joining Jesus to restore and transform one another and our world.
That is our mission at First Prez. Shaped by our values:
Prayer — to stay rooted in God’s presence
Humility — to live like Jesus did
The grace and truth of Jesus — to speak honestly and love deeply
Courage — to live faithfully
If something in your heart is stirring to say yes to what Jesus is offering, you can pray this on your own—but you don’t have to do it alone!
Let us know, we’d love to walk this with you.
Our prayer would be something like this:
Jesus, I want to know you.
Thank you for your love, your sacrifice, and your invitation.
I turn from doing life on my own. I receive your forgiveness.
Fill me with your Spirit, and help me follow you with prayer, humility, grace and truth, and courage.
Amen.
Whether you just prayed, have more questions, or simply want someone to talk to… please use the contact form below and one of our staff team will reply back or you can call our office line at (808) 532-1111