May 9, 2024
And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am? And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets. And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.” Mark 8:27-29
The apostles had been with Jesus Christ for several years. In that time they heard Divine teaching, witnessed amazing miracles, and observed a perfect life. On several occasions Jesus proved to be more than a man, providing ample evidence that He was the Son of God. With only a few months remaining of His earthly ministry, Jesus Christ tested His apostles.
Whom do men say that I am? – of course Jesus was not interested in men’s approval, applause, or acceptance. The question caused the apostles to think, because Jesus was not the Messiah many expected. The nation longed for a temporal king that would overthrow their oppressors. A king who would establish His earthly rule in Jerusalem. Because of their unmet expectations, many respected Jesus but they did not necessarily believe Him to be the Messiah.
Whom say ye that I am? – a direct and personal question for Christ’s followers. Did they understand His teachings, accept His works, and believe His claim as the Son of God? Were the apostles convinced that Jesus was their Messiah?
Peter answered correctly, “Thou are the Christ.” Jesus is a name and ‘Christ’ is a title; in the Hebrew the word for ‘Christ’ is ‘Messiah’, which means the anointed one. Peter and the others believed Jesus to be the promised Messiah, the Son of God who was sent to make atonement for sin and save sinners.
What do you think of Jesus?
Thanks for reading…
Pastor Ramirez