Scripture References: Matthew 16:13-20 (Main) Matthew 16:11-12
Intro: In a culture marked by division into various "tribes" based on secondary issues, this sermon returns to the central, defining question posed by Jesus in Matthew 16: "Who do you say that I am?" This passage represents a climax where Jesus confronts popular opinion and demands a personal verdict on His identity.
Key Points:
- Setting & Worldly Opinions (v. 13-14): Near Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asks what the crowds think of Him. The answers vary – John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, a prophet – acknowledging Him as a great human figure, perhaps even #2 in importance, but ultimately missing His true divine identity. Jesus deems these answers insufficient.
- Warning Against Competing "Tribes" (cf. v. 11-12): Jesus previously warned against the "leaven" (poisonous teachings) of the dominant religious/cultural groups (Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, etc.). Their foundational error was misunderstanding who He truly is. All human tribes ultimately fall short if they get this wrong.
- The Personal Question (v. 15): Jesus shifts focus intensely: "But who do you say I am?" It transcends popular opinion, family background, or cultural consensus, demanding an individual confession.
- The Spirit-Revealed Answer (v. 16-17): Simon Peter declares the only right answer: "You are the Christ (the Anointed One, Messiah, King), the Son of the living God." Jesus affirms this truth isn't humanly derived but divinely revealed by the Father.
- The Foundational Confession (v. 18-19): Upon this "rock" – Peter's confession of Jesus' true identity – Christ builds His church, against which even death ("gates of hell") cannot prevail. This confession acts as the "keys," unlocking the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life.
- Two Tribes Exist: Jesus doesn't align with earthly factions. There is His tribe – those who confess Him as Lord and God – and all other tribes. We are called to join His tribe; He doesn't join ours. Every significant life choice ultimately reflects our answer to "Who is Jesus?"
Conclusion: In a fractured world, Jesus calls us to find our primary identity and allegiance in His true nature. Peter's confession, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God," revealed by the Father, is the singular, foundational truth upon which the Church stands and the key that opens eternal life, eclipsing all other loyalties.
Call to Action: Personally answer Jesus' question today: Who do you say He is? Have other identities or loyalties overshadowed His Lordship? Surrender fully, acknowledging Him as the Christ, Son of God. Pray for deeper revelation for yourself and others. Let this truth reorder your priorities and decisions.
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The Gospel of Matthew: Who is Jesus (Matthew 6:11-19)
with Jon Marshall
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