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Who Do You Say that I AM?
by Christy Snell ~ May 2006 ~ Mark 8:27-38
As Jesus and His disciples were walking to the villages around Caesarea Phillippi, He asked them, “Who do people say that I am?” Their reply was simple enough; they had heard all the rumors. Without even pausing to consider what their answer should be, I can almost imagine them jumping at this question with a quick response. “Some say, John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” This is already turning into a very interesting exchange between Jesus and His twelve. Can you imagine having such a reputation that some might assume you are Elijah returned, or on the other extreme, just another prophet.
Now Jesus was not concerned about the majority vote. He wasn’t here to gain popularity amongst the masses. He came to seek and to save that which was lost, to set the captives free, heal the sick, and bind up the wounds of the brokenhearted. He knew His purpose, and had no doubt about the Father’s plan. His Father’s approval was all He needed. We should say then, this line of questioning was not Jesus looking for affirmation or identity, but He was going somewhere with this. As usual, He had a greater message.
The next question was directed at the disciples themselves, “Who do you say that I am?” I love this one, because again I can just imagine Peter, no hesitation whatsoever, “You are the Christ.” Peter had answered correctly. He knew this was the “anointed one” the chosen Messiah was their leader. God had revealed this to him, but then Jesus warns that it is not yet time for this to be revealed to everyone. He goes on to explain what was to come of His trial, death, burial & resurrection. I love the intimacy in this moment. He is telling them some things to come; letting them in on top-secret heavenly plans. Peter was not ready for this information. He may have spoken for the rest of the twelve when he said emphatically, “This should not be, my Lord.” Let us take a lesson from the Master in his response to Peter. Jesus was unable to be distracted from the plan of His Father—God.
Now as Jesus again speaks to not only His disciples but to the crowd as well, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Jesus is speaking to me and to you today! If their generation would have been considered adulterous and sinful (wicked), what do you think might be said of us today? It certainly couldn’t be any better, more than likely, it would be much worse. Far too often people, who call themselves Christians, or followers of Christ, are not following these principles in their actions and thinking. We want to follow Jesus, but not “give up” the things of this world.
We need to ask ourselves this question, “Who do we say Jesus is?” Was He just another teacher or good man who walked the earth? Is He indeed the Messiah, the Savior of the world?
I can tell you who Jesus is to me. He is my Lord and my Savior, my God and my King. Jesus is the guardian of my heart, and the best friend I’ve ever known. I have never had to question His love or commitment to our relationship. He already proved it on the cross. Now it is my turn to give my life for His Name’s sake. I have the privilege of taking up my cross each day and following Christ. Jesus is the glory of God housed in this jar of clay, and in all of us who have become true followers of His. His words are like life’s breath to me, my delight comes through listening and heeding His Word. He compels me to follow, and it is my joy to obey.
Jesus is coming soon in His Father’s glory.
“Who is He to you?”
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