15' He said to them, But who do you [yourselves] say that I am? Simon Peter replied, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Then Jesus answered him, Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) are you, Simon Bar-Jonah. For flesh and blood [men] have not revealed this to you, but My Father Who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter [Greek, Petros –a large piece of rock], and on this rock [Greek, petra –a huge rock like Gibraltar] I will build My church, and the gates of Hades (the powers of the infernal region) shall not overpower it [or be strong to its detriment or hold out against it]. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind (declare to be improper and unlawful) on earth must be what is already bound in heaven; and whatever you loose (declare lawful) on earth must be what is already loosed in heaven. [Isa. 22:22.] Then He sternly and strictly charged and warned the disciples to tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ. From that time forth Jesus began [clearly] to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders and the high priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised from death.' Matthew 16:15-21 https://my.bible.com/bible/8/MAT.16.15-21
This passage is an interesting exchange between Jesus and his disciples. He asks them all 1st, “who do people say that I am,” and 2nd, “who do you say that I am?” Regardless of our confidence or relationship with those around us, it is important to know what people think of you, and also how people see you. It is important to know this because it can help to avoid some misunderstandings that are related to people projecting a false image/standard on you, and may help you to correct some words or movements that may be a misrepresentation of you or your calling/assignment. I want to focus on Jesus’ response to Peter’s declaration that he is the Messiah.
Jesus renames Simon here to Peter or Cephas, which means rock. In the old testament we see several instances where God renames an individual where he establishes a covenant or promise to man; 1st with Abram & Sarai to Abraham & Sarah, and second with Jacob becoming Israel. These moments were a symbol of God establishing a personal relationship with these individuals. Here in Matthew we see Jesus rename Peter and inform he and the other disciples that only God can reveal that type of information.
“But true wisdom and power are found in God; counsel and understanding are his. Job 12:13 NLT
Peter up to this point had been walking with Jesus for at least 1-2 years, listening to parables, observing miracles, and receiving privileged insight in regards to the scriptures. I believe that compared to the other disciples, Peter had a more intense hunger for understanding Jesus’ ministry and intentions for the world. I believe that he probably stayed close to Jesus while he taught, prayed, and healed people that came to him for help. I believe that he remained up with him asking questions as to the scriptures, and what heaven on earth meant, and when it would come. In Matthew 14, we saw Peter step out of the boat and walk on water when commanded to do so by Jesus when the rest remained inside the boat. Peter demonstrated strong faith, and a hunger for God that God responded to with a download of discernment/wisdom. Jesus immediately recognized this with Peter’s answer and responded that that type of faith was a foundation (rock) that he could/would build his church or new kingdom upon. This declaration wasn’t for Peter alone, but rather it is for everyone that demonstrates a Cephas/Simon-Peter-like faith and hunger for God. When we search for God he is found by us, and responds with a download of privileged information. This new level of understanding comes with power AND responsibility. Jesus here gives them direct access to the Father and the ability to release Heaven’s blessings for use on Earth. The need for a intercessor has now been removed and the individual can now speak on behalf of themselves. Now important to understand is that neither Peter nor us can ask for anything that is not already promised in God’s word. Peter’s ability like ours to operate in this power or strength is predicated on our being in tune with God and allowing his word and direction for our lives and words lead our actions. Everything that we have been given access to is for the benefit and furtherance of the kingdom
Reflection Time
What is or has been shaping your understanding of Jesus/God? What has been impacting your relationship with Jesus. What are you looking for from Jesus/God? If your questions or concerns with Jesus/God were answered now, how would that impact your personal walk with God? How would that impact others around you?
