Verse of the Day
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Matthew 16:15-16
He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Introduction
This brief yet profound exchange between Jesus and Simon Peter stands as one of the most pivotal moments in the Gospel of Matthew. It is the turning point in Jesus’ public ministry, marking the disciples’ transition from observing miracles and teachings to professing a clear theological conviction about Jesus' identity. These verses are central not only to the narrative arc of Matthew's Gospel but also to the Church's confession of faith. They invite every reader into the same personal reckoning: “Who do you say that I am?”
Commentary
“He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’”
The emphasis in Greek falls on you (ὑμεῖς), contrasting the disciples with the crowds described in the previous verse (v. 14), who associate Jesus with prophetic figures like John the Baptist or Elijah. Jesus' question is not rhetorical; it demands a personal response. It also shifts the focus from general public opinion to the intimate circle of disciples who have walked closely with Him.
“Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’”
Peter, speaking as a representative of the Twelve (and soon to be named the rock of the Church), declares a two-fold recognition: Jesus is the Messiah (ὁ Χριστός), the anointed one foretold by the prophets; and He is the Son of the living God—a title that transcends political expectations of a Davidic king and enters the realm of divine filiation.
The phrase “Son of the living God” is especially significant in Jewish monotheism. Unlike the pagan gods of Caesarea Philippi (where this conversation takes place), Israel's God is living—active, present, and sustaining creation. To call Jesus His Son is a bold and theologically loaded affirmation, preparing the ground for the Church’s later articulation of the doctrine of the Trinity.
Understanding the Context
This dialogue occurs in Caesarea Philippi, a region known for its pagan shrines and imperial associations. The backdrop of idol worship and Roman power adds weight to Peter’s declaration. In this contested spiritual and political space, Jesus challenges His disciples to identify His true nature.
Literarily, this passage is a hinge in Matthew’s Gospel. Up to this point, Jesus’ identity has been gradually unveiled through miracles, teachings, and narrative clues. Now, for the first time, a human character (Peter) openly confesses Jesus’ messianic and divine status. This scene precedes Jesus’ first prediction of His suffering and death (v. 21), signaling a shift from the ministry of proclamation to the road toward the Cross.
In the broader Jewish context, expectations of the Messiah were diverse and often political. Peter’s confession, while correct, will soon be shown to be incomplete—as he objects to the idea of a suffering Messiah (v. 22). Nevertheless, his words serve as a foundational confession for Christian belief.
Application for Today
These verses continue to challenge every generation of believers. The question “Who do you say that I am?” cuts through cultural assumptions, inherited beliefs, and secondhand theology. It demands a personal and communal response rooted in relationship with Christ rather than mere tradition.
In a world saturated with opinions about Jesus—as a teacher, moral example, revolutionary, or myth—the Christian community is called to echo Peter’s confession with clarity and conviction. Yet, as later verses will show, true confession must be coupled with discipleship that embraces both Christ’s identity and His path of self-giving love.
These words also serve as a reminder that faith is not merely assent to doctrine but recognition of a living relationship. Jesus is not only the long-awaited Messiah but also the Son of the living God—present, dynamic, and active in the life of the Church and the believer.
Reflection
Peter’s answer did not arise from academic study or societal consensus—it flowed from time spent walking with Jesus, witnessing His authority, and receiving divine revelation (cf. v. 17). Today, believers are invited into that same dynamic of revelation and response. The question Jesus asks is not confined to a distant past; it reverberates in every heart, in every age.
“Who do you say that I am?” remains the central question of the Christian journey. How we answer shapes our worship, our ethics, our relationships, and our hope. It is both a question of identity and of allegiance—calling each of us to not only name Christ rightly, but to follow Him fully.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse, extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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