Who

"Who do you say I am?" How do individuals refer to you? Who are you to those you interact with? For example, suppose someone calls the church looking for Rev. Williamson. In that case, indeed, that individual does not know me. Suppose the caller seeks to speak to Pastor Jeff. More than likely, in that case, it's a church member or an individual that the church currently does business with. Lastly, if someone calls looking to talk to Jeffrey, it's extended family or someone associated with my childhood. Jesus asked of a gathering audience in Matthew 16; "Who do you say I am?" After what could have been some awkward silence, one disciple speaks up. You are the Christ.

There has never been a person more famous or controversial than Jesus. Even during His day, everyone seemed to have an opinion about Who He was and what He came to do. Some thought Him to be a great teacher; others saw Him as a miracle worker; still more concluded that He was possessed by a demon. Similarly, opinions still abound today about Who Jesus is. The question of Jesus' identity is the most important question any of us will answer in life. Whether we acknowledge the truth of His identity now or acknowledge it in eternity, all of us will eventually know that Jesus is the Christ. Who is Jesus to you?

This confession of the identity of Jesus was not a first in the New Testament. Nathanael had proclaimed Christ as the Son of God (John 1:49). The disciples had declared Him God's Son after He stilled the storm (Matt. 14:33). Then here Peter boldly answered with both Pharisees and Sadducees observing that Jesus was ""You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Friends, Jesus is the Christ! He is the living Lord, He is the Word, and He desires to be your savior. He came to this earth to give His life for you! The difference in this confession of identity was based on the question. This time Jesus asked, in essence placing the crowd on the spot. But something was different this time; there was a distinct difference. Remember He asked, "Who do you say I am?" It was not an emotional response from people who had seen a miracle. Instead, it was a man's studied and sincere statement taught by God!

From this faithful proclamation from Peter, Jesus had to be delighted. Peter opened the door for Jesus to reinforce the teachings of the OT and gave a moment of significance. When the truth had now been spoken, "You are the Christ," Jesus then launched into a more profound teaching. Jesus said about the foundational building upon the rock, the existence of the church, and the need to take up His cross. 

Friends, as we go to be a witness (Acts 1:8) and proclaim the gospel (Matthew 28:20), we too are building upon the foundational confession made by Peter around 2000 years ago - You are the Christ. Therefore, Matthew 16 should cause each of us to ask the following questions: Have you died to yourself? Have you taken up your cross? Have you found your life in Him? Are you eagerly proclaiming the good news of the kingdom as you eagerly await the return of the King? This is what it means to be a disciple. This is what it means to be a part of Christ's church.