Who is Jesus for me?

Prov 30:5-9; Psalm: 118; Lk 9:1-6

In Luke 9:18-22, Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is. Peter responds, “The Christ of God.” This passage is a pivotal moment in the Gospel as it reveals Peter’s recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. In reflecting on this passage, we can learn several important lessons about faith and discipleship.

First, Peter’s confession of Jesus as Christ highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus’ true identity. It is not enough to simply view Jesus as a teacher or a good moral example. He is the Savior of the world, the Son of God who came to redeem us from our sins. This confession challenges us to continually deepen our understanding of who Jesus is and what he means to us personally.

Second, Jesus’ response to Peter’s confession reveals the nature of true discipleship. He tells his disciples that he must suffer, be rejected, and be killed before being raised on the third day. This prediction of his death and resurrection foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice he will make for the salvation of all humanity. As his disciples, we are called to follow in his footsteps, willing to take up our own crosses and sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.

Third, Jesus’ teaching on the necessity of his suffering and death challenges our understanding of the nature of God’s kingdom. In a world that values power, success, and wealth, Jesus presents a different vision of the kingdom—one that is built on humility, service, and sacrificial love. This teaching reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways and that we must be willing to let go of our own desires and ambitions in order to fully embrace his kingdom.

Fourth, Peter’s initial confusion and lack of understanding in response to Jesus’ prediction of his death and resurrection serves as a reminder of our own limitations as human beings. We may not always understand God’s plan or see the bigger picture, but we are called to trust in his wisdom and providence. This passage calls us to surrender our doubts and fears to God, trusting that he is in control and working all things for our good.

Luke 9:18-22 challenges us to reflect on our own faith and discipleship. It calls us to recognize Jesus as Christ, to follow him in sacrificial love, to embrace his kingdom values, and to trust in his providential care. May this passage inspire us to deepen our relationship with Christ and to live out our faith with courage and conviction.