This week’s devotions are based on Week 2 of Confessing Christ in a Confused World (WATCH HERE)
Matthew 16:13-16 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”
14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Every generation must answer the question Jesus asked at Caesarea Philippi. It is the most important question anyone will ever face: Who is Jesus?
Notice that Jesus first asked His disciples what other people were saying about Him. Their answers sound surprisingly familiar. Some thought He was a prophet. Others thought He was a great religious leader. Some believed He was a special messenger from God. The crowds had plenty of opinions, but Jesus wasn’t ultimately interested in public opinion polls. He turned the question personal: “Who do you say I am?”
Our culture is not much different. People describe Jesus in many ways. Some see Him as a moral teacher. Others admire Him as a revolutionary, philosopher, or spiritual guide. Many appreciate His teachings while ignoring His claims. Yet Jesus never left us the option of reducing Him to merely a good teacher.
The Apostles’ Creed begins with a bold confession: “I believe in Jesus Christ.” The title “Christ” is not Jesus’ last name. It means Messiah—God’s promised Savior. Peter wasn’t simply saying Jesus was wise or inspiring. He was declaring that Jesus was the One God had promised from the beginning, the Savior who would rescue His people from sin and death.
Imagine being lost in a vast wilderness with no map, no phone signal, and no idea how to get home. What you need most is not advice about survival. You need a rescuer who knows the way. In the same way, Jesus did not come merely to give us helpful instructions for life. He came to save us. He is not simply a messenger pointing toward salvation. He is the Messiah who accomplishes salvation.
John explains the purpose of his Gospel this way: “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). Life is found not merely in admiring Jesus but in trusting Him.
Today, remember that Christianity is not primarily about following a set of principles. It is about knowing a person—the Messiah, God’s Son, who came to seek and save the lost. The question Jesus asked Peter is still His question for you. Not what your family believes. Not what your church believes. Not what culture says. Who do you say He is?
When you confess Jesus as the Christ, you are not merely agreeing with a doctrine. You are placing your hope in the One who came to rescue you.
Reflect: When you think about Jesus, do you focus more on His teachings or on His saving work as the Messiah? How would you answer Jesus’ question, “Who do you say I am?” if someone asked you today?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being more than a teacher or example. Thank You for being the Messiah, the Savior You promised from the beginning. Strengthen my faith to trust You more fully and help me confess You boldly in a world filled with confusion. Remind me today that my hope is not in my efforts but in Your finished work. Amen.