Sermon Summary
The sermon is based on Matthew 16:13-16, where Jesus asks his disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" The sermon explores the different opinions people had about Jesus during his time and emphasizes the importance of having a personal understanding of who Jesus is. The key take-aways from the sermon are:
- Jesus is not just a great man or a prophet, but the Son of the living God.
- Having a correct understanding of who Jesus is is crucial for salvation.
- The question "Who do you say that I am?" is a personal question that requires a personal answer.
The Sermon
Now when Jesus came into the district of Cesaria Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Jesus brings his disciples to the district of Cesaria Philippi, a beautiful place but also a center of pagan worship. Jesus asks his disciples what other people say about him, and they give him four popular answers: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. Jesus then asks his disciples, "But who do you say that I am?"
Peter answers, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus says that Peter's understanding is not based on human knowledge but is a revelation from God. Jesus then tells Peter not to tell others about his identity as the Messiah just yet.
Peter's confession identifies Jesus as the Messiah, the anointed one prophesied by the prophets. Jesus is not just a prophet or teacher but the Son of God. The claim of his divinity ultimately led to his crucifixion.
The question "Who do you say that I am?" is not just for the disciples then but for everyone today. It is a personal question that requires a personal answer. We cannot ignore this question, as it determines our eternal destiny.
CS Lewis said that Jesus could be a liar, a fanatic, or what he claims to be. We have to decide who Jesus is to us. The Bible shows that Jesus is the Son of God, and his victory over death is our victory if we believe in him.
The prayer of Paul to the church in Colossians is that we may live a life worthy of the Lord and grow in the knowledge of God. The question "Who do you say that I am?" is still relevant today, and we must answer it personally.
To Think About
- Who do you say Jesus is to you?
- How does your understanding of Jesus affect your daily life?
- In what ways can you grow in your knowledge of God?
- How does the identity of Jesus as the Son of God impact your faith?
- In what ways can you confess Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God, in your life?