Who do you say I am?

Today's thought has been brought to you by the lovely and vivacious Beth.

 

“Jesus...asked his disciples, “Who do people say 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 Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied “...on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matt. 16:13-16, 18
Peter’s statement is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible. It’s such a simple thing. He just answered Jesus’ question with what he could see as the truth. He didn’t know that one day that answer would cost him his life. But I think, even if he knew, he still would have given the same answer.
A lot of people look at this scripture as a testament to Peter’s great faith. Jesus told him this was not from him, but from God. We don’t have the sense or the strength to see and speak truth on our own. Too many things intimidate us, distract us and dishearten us. Even if we know the truth, by ourselves, we can’t speak it. But God’s Spirit is one of His great gifts to us. By His Spirit, we know who our Savior is, and we have the courage to trust Him. May God renew that courage, not only to know who you say Jesus is, but to let God live it out in you.


Challenge:
How do you think you would have answered if Jesus asked you who you say he is? Why? Spend some time getting to know the person of Jesus today, and who that makes you.