I really love this passage toward the end of today’s reading, where Jesus calls Peter the rock! Right after Jesus has instructed his disciples to beware of the “yeast” of the religious leaders, the disciples have a moment to respond. 

The religious leaders of Jesus’ time have gotten caught up in legalism. Some of them think that God’s Messiah will come when they have finally reached purity as a culture, but Jesus gives his disciples a chance to reveal what the religious leaders have missed: the issue was never about external purity, but trust, surrender, and recognition of who Jesus truly is. 

The disciples acknowledge the swirling rumors that Jesus might be one of the next all-star spiritual giants in line with Elijah, Jeremiah, John the Baptist, or another prophet. But Jesus says, enough about what everyone ELSE is saying … what do YOU say?

“Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16:15). Peter, in typical Peter fashion, speaks first and lays out a spectacularly bold claim: Jesus, you’re not just a great rabbi and teacher. You’re not just a prophet. You aren’t just another guy, even one who is amazing and worth following. You’re IT. You’re HIM. You’re the ONE for whom our people have been waiting for CENTURIES. You aren’t just the messenger; you’re THE Messiah himself. 

If Peter had said this in front of the religious leaders, he probably would have lost his life on the spot. It’s bold, it’s brave, it’s a monumental, record-scratch-stop, everything-changes sort of statement! 

Jesus knows how imperfect Peter is (example: see a few verses ahead into tomorrow’s reading where Jesus rebukes Peter with the famous “Get behind me, Satan” statement!). Yet, Jesus sees this bold acknowledgement of his messiahship and verbally anoints Peter on the spot. 

The legacy Peter leaves is the foundation of our faith still today: Jesus IS the Lord, the Messiah, God incarnate, the holy I AM. 

Peter’s confession is not just a historic moment. It is the question that echoes into every generation: “Who do you say I am?”

Reflection: 

  • Peter makes a spectacular confession, yet he remains deeply imperfect. How does that shape the way you view your own doubts, failures, or inconsistencies?
  • If someone observed your daily life, decisions, and priorities, what would they conclude about who you believe Jesus is?
  • Jesus asks, “Who do YOU say I am?” Where in your life are you currently being invited to answer that question more honestly or more boldly?