Tag: flesh and blood
“Who do you say I am?”
Scripture reading for January 24th: Matthew 16, Psalm 18:1-6, Proverbs 4:18-19
The religious leaders were continually looking for ways to trap Jesus. In today’s reading, they ask Him for a sign or a miracle to prove to them who He was. He had been healing the sick and ministering in the miraculous and these “signs” were not sufficient because their hard hearts. His response to their request was sharp, “A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.” (Matthew 16:4) His death, burial and resurrection after three days would be the final and greatest “sign” that the world would have that He was from heaven.
When the disciples and Jesus visited Cesarea Philippi, Jesus had a serious discussion with them about who they thought He was. They had been with him for some time now and seen many “signs” in the miracles and healing that took place whenever Jesus went among the people. They had even done some of these miracles themselves. Jesus questioned them, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” He asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:13-16)
People had different opinions but Jesus wanted His disciples to know the truth. He called them to be with Him and learn who He was and who His Father was. Peter’s response was dead on! Jesus noted that Peter did not get this from his own fleshly understanding, but His Father in heaven had revealed this truth to Peter. It was this truth that Jesus would use to build His church upon! Jesus was the Messiah and long awaited Savior. He came from His Father, the only Living God. Knowing Jesus as the Son of God was only possible by revelation.
This basic truth is so important for us today. Jesus is building His Church on this truth. It is part of the Gospel message of the kingdom that is revealed to those with humble and teachable hearts. Confession of sin and repentance through faith to Jesus Christ, Son of the living God is the only way to the Father. Who is Jesus to you? Can you confess Him as the Christ?