“Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” 28 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” 29 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” 30 Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.” Mark 8.27-30
I find it intriguing that Jesus told Peter after his pronouncement that he was the Messiah and not to tell anyone about him. I mean, isn’t this the whole point? “Go and make disciples!” But in this instance, it was not the right timing. Jesus was leading a Godly revolution and soon enough, persecution would come. So perhaps Jesus was intentionally lengthening the time before the Jews all together revolted against him.
The very question, “Who do you say that I am?” has intrigued preachers and scholars for centuries. Why would Jesus ask? Much of his teaching was to ask questions and then allow his listeners to answers. Maybe Jesus really wanted to know, although being God – couldn’t he read the thoughts of every human?
The disciples replied to this question – “Some say John, some say Elijah and others say the prophets.” Then Jesus got personal. He looked them in the eyes (Peter specifically?) and said, “But who do you say I am?” Peter replied first and by faith – “You are the Messiah.”
What a declaration! Upon this question and our response hinges the whole fate of humanity and our eternal destiny as well. It’s not a light question nor one to be avoided. If we say he is the Messiah, then our lives must reflect this answer. If we reject or deny his Lordship, then it will be proven in how we live for our selves and in our sin.
Each and every morning we must ask and answer – “Who is Jesus? How will he impact my life today? How will I live, or not live, according to his plans for my life?”
Have you answered this question? Have you committed your ways to the Lord? Have you been filled with his Holy Spirit, trusted wholly in his blood to save you, and are you walking in the way that leads to life eternal?
“O Lord God I love you, I praise you. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for the power of your blood and the grace filled path of discipleship. Come now, Holy Spirit, help me know you and to walk in your ways. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen