A question for you
by Ruth Olsen
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Who do people say the Son of Man is? (Matthew 16:13b)
Read Matthew 16:13–20
Caesarea Philippi is 27 miles (approximately 45 kilometres) north of Capernaum at the Sea of Galilee, where the first feeding of the multitude occurred. As they walked, it would have been time to ponder, talk and process things that had happened in the more intensive teaching Jesus had given his disciples.
Jesus has some deeper questions for them: ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ (verse 13b). There are various responses, and then, ‘What about you? Who do you say I am?’ (verse 15). From the surface, everyday level, to the deeper level. They are questions he asks any of us, indeed, to all of us. Like the disciples then, we also need to give our response.
I can imagine that when Simon Peter heard his response come out of his mouth, he said, ‘What did I just say there?’ That’s what happens when the Lord reveals something to us in conversation with someone else. We hear what has come from our mouths and then wonder, ‘Wow! That was given to me! Praise God!’ I rejoice that the Lord continues to do that, by his Spirit at work in us and through us! That’s what Jesus makes possible. And that’s what Jesus said his Spirit would do (John 16:13–15).
It has been said that God has no grandchildren, only sons and daughters. That means each person will give their response to the questions Jesus asks us here. It is reassuring to read that it is Jesus who will build his church! We know that happens by the Spirit of God, in us and through us. It’s the Spirit who gives insight, revelation, understanding – and wisdom to know the difference. So, if you don’t know what your response to Jesus is, or you are unsure, ask the Holy Spirit for insight to reveal God’s truth to you, too, for that’s what he loves to do! Ask him what is meant by ‘the keys of the kingdom of heaven’ and listen to what he tells you.
Father, open the eyes of our hearts to Jesus and to the reality of your kingdom of heaven coming to us here on Earth also. Thank you.
Ruth lives in Adelaide with Steen, her husband of more than 50 years. Her autoimmune disorder is now under control, although kidney dialysis is currently a requirement three times a week. That swallows much time, yet the Lord is with her in the challenges. He is always faithful!
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