The controversial “He Gets Us” ad campaign that aired during the Super Bowl has sparked a lot of debate this week. These commercials began in 2022 with the goal of helping people know Jesus by connecting Him to modern-day issues. The “He Gets Us” campaign exists to “remind us of the example that Jesus set while inviting all to explore his teachings so we can all follow his example of confounding, unconditional love.”

While the aim to present Jesus as someone who understands and empathizes with us is commendable, my concern is whether or not these ads fully capture the essence of who Jesus is according to the Bible. On the surface, it may seem like a harmless sentiment, but the theological implications run deep and can affect our ability to truly know Jesus.

The question is not “Does Jesus get us?” but rather, “Do we get Him?”

The Dangers Of Remaking Jesus In Our Image

When we speak of Jesus “getting us,” we often project our human limitations onto Him, reducing Him to a relatable figure who understands our struggles and empathizes with our experiences. While it’s true that Jesus can empathize with our weaknesses (Hebrews 4:15), reducing Him to merely a sympathetic friend overlooks His divine nature and ultimate purpose.

There is a temptation to fashion Jesus according to our preferences – gentle therapist, social justice warrior, best friend next door. But when we portray Jesus primarily as a compassionate figure who empathizes with our struggles, we often do so at the expense of His majesty, holiness, and the call to repentance. While Jesus indeed showed unparalleled compassion, reducing His identity to this aspect alone does not do justice to the full biblical account of His life, teachings, and purpose.

All aspects of Jesus’ character hold together beautifully without needing modern repackaging. He shows unlimited compassion as the Lamb of God sacrificed for sinners. Yet He remains the roaring Lion of Judah who will judge evil and vindicate His people. We must get both sides of this coin straight.

Discovering The Biblical Jesus

To truly know Jesus, we must turn to the Scriptures. It is important to allow the Bible to define who Jesus is rather than creating our own version of Him. Jesus cannot be reimagined to fit into every cultural nuance and commercial appeal. The Bible provides a clear understanding of His character, mission, and the nature of His Kingdom.

In Revelation 1:7-20, John describes a breathtaking encounter with Jesus Christ that transcends human comprehension. John’s vision unveils the majestic, powerful, and glorious nature of our Lord. His vision of Jesus is a stark contrast to the one seen in the Super Bowl commercials.

Know Jesus In His Majesty, Power, And Glory

John’s vision of Jesus is one of majesty, power, and glory. He describes Jesus as the “faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth” (Revelation 1:5). Jesus is seen with hair as white as wool, eyes like a flame of fire, feet like burnished bronze, and a voice like the roar of many waters (Revelation 1:14-15). He holds seven stars in His right hand, and out of His mouth comes a sharp two-edged sword (Revelation 1:16). His face is like the sun shining in full strength. 

This imagery evokes the sovereignty and universal reign of Jesus Christ. This is no mere man helping us cope with life’s troubles. He is the immortal, exalted King of Kings before whom all creation bows! This is not a Jesus who merely understands our struggles; this is a Jesus who holds all authority and power over heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). We must surrender and worship, not casually befriend Jesus as just one of us. He is utterly holy; we are fallen creatures in need of grace.

Know Jesus And Surrender To Him As Lord

After seeing the vision of Jesus, John falls at His feet as if he were dead. But Jesus, in His mercy and grace, reassures John, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades” (Revelation 1:17-18).

This revelation of Jesus leaves no room for complacency or casual acquaintance. He is the risen Savior, the conquering King, and the ultimate Judge.

Understanding Jesus in the fullness of His glory and authority compels us to surrender to Him as Lord. It’s not merely about feeling understood or comforted by Jesus; it’s about recognizing His lordship over our lives. Surrendering to Jesus means acknowledging our sinfulness, repenting, and submitting to His will, knowing that He has the power to save and transform us.

It’s Not That He Gets Us But That We Get Him

Contrary to the popular notion that Jesus simply “gets us,” the reality is that we must get Him. I find it crucial to redirect our focus from merely appreciating that “He gets us” to striving to know Jesus in all His glory. Jesus is Lord – and it’s imperative that we get Him.

Of course, Jesus “gets us” but the reason He came was to save us, to redeem us, to take away our sin. He calls us to believe in Him, repent of our sin, and “go and sin no more.”

While the “He Gets Us” campaign may open doors to conversations about Jesus, it’s crucial for those conversations to lead to a deeper understanding of His true nature as revealed in the Scriptures. Jesus is not just a compassionate friend; He is the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords, and the Savior of the world. Our response should be one of awe, repentance, and submission to His sovereign will. Let us strive not just to appreciate that Jesus “gets us,” but to fully get Him and surrender to Him as our Lord and Savior.