This question was asked of the disciples by Jesus, just after the Lord’s group of enthusiastic witnesses had returned from their first evangelical mission trip. The account in Matthew chapter 16 records the Twelve’s excited reply to Jesus’ question… “Who do men say that I am?”

They voiced the flurry of rumors that had been sweeping across the towns and villages: “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

Then Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” His question is met with a moment of silence and seriousness in which the heartbeat of a mosquito could be heard.

Peter looks into Jesus’ eyes and speaks to his friend, teacher, master and leader and says, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!”

This profound encounter with the truth forever changed Peter, the other disciples and the entire world. As believers in Jesus, this revelation should change us, as well. But, does it? Has it changed you?

Who do you say that Jesus is? Really, when it gets right down to the foundation of your faith and the future of your soul, who is Jesus to you? I believe that when the truth of this revelation, shown to Peter by God Himself, really hit home he was as stunned as those within his hearing. Yet, Peter remained a man. A person just like you and me, Peter was still capable of missing the mark, thinking like a human and believing that the future was in a week or so, or maybe next year. He thought that the death of his beloved friend, Jesus, would be the greatest mistake ever and should not happen. As we know if we read further in this same text, Jesus rebukes Peter for thinking such a thought. God’s ways are not our ways.

But, back to the question; who do you say Jesus is? What is He to you? I believe that when we truly understand and truly believe in our hearts that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, we are forever changed. How can you look at life through the lens of the culture after you know that Jesus is Lord? How can you watch television and have the loose morals and perverse programming enter your home and your heart, when you know that the God of the universe, who created everything and abides in you is watching right along with you? You can’t. Nothing that is not of God, for God and for God’s glory is ever again as satisfying as time with the Savior.

Suddenly you find yourself hungry and thirsty for the Word of God, for prayer, for communion with God. In time your fondest pastimes become meditating on His Word, journaling, worshiping, praying and reading Scripture. It’s so wonderful! You find yourself ready to burst, if you cannot find someone with whom you can share this good news. Rejection, embarrassment, or looking foolish, pale in comparison to the truth of Christ.

There is no greater witness to the transforming power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, than a transformed life. That individual is one, who when asked, “Who do you say that I am?” without hesitation replies, “I believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Take this question to heart. If you believe it, say so. If you believe it, live it. If you believe it, tell everyone you meet that the Kingdom of God is at hand. Jesus Christ is born. The Savior has come to redeem the world and to save our sinful souls from eternal death. Jesus is the Son of God and promises to all who believe, life eternal with Him in heaven.

Come, Lord Jesus. Quickly come!

Copyright © 2006 by Waters of Life^TM Ministry for Women, Inc., www.wolministry.com Share