The All Important Question

Read the Bible in One Year: OT 1 Samuel 7-9, NT Luke 9:18-38

Luke 9:20 – But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “God’s Messiah.”

Jesus is the Messiah, the Anointed One of God!

Luke 9 begins with Jesus sending the Twelve out, giving them authority to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick. Following their return Jesus performs the miracle of feeding the five thousand, displaying His compassion, power and ability. After these events Jesus retreats with His disciples to a quiet place for prayer (Luke 9:18). While they are alone Jesus poses a question to His disciples, asking “Who do the crowds say that I am?”. The disciples share various opinions people have about Jesus. And then Jesus directs the question specifically to His disciples asking the all important question, “Who do you say I am?”

Peter, filled with divine inspiration, answered this question with utmost clarity, saying, “The Messiah.” Peter recognized Jesus as the Messiah, the Anointed One sent by God. His response demonstrates an understanding that goes beyond mere intellectual acknowledgment. It reveals a heart that has grasped the truth and significance of Jesus’ identity.

In our journey of faith, there comes a moment when we must grapple with the profound question Jesus posed to his disciples: “But who do you say that I am?” This is an all-important question that demands an answer from each one of us. It is not merely a question for the disciples of old; it is a question that reverberates through the corridors of time. How we respond to this question will shape our lives, our priorities, and our eternal destiny.

Jesus invites us into the same introspection and reflection. He desires us to go beyond the opinions of others, the popular theories, and the societal expectations. He longs for us to personally encounter Him, to acknowledge Him as the Christ, the Son of God, and to embrace Him as our Lord and Savior.

So, who do you say Jesus is? Is He merely a historical figure, a good teacher, or a moral example to follow? Or do you recognize Him as the Son of God, the One who came to save us from our sins and reconcile us to the Father? Have you experienced the transforming power of His love and grace in your life?

Answering this question requires a deep examination of our hearts, a sincere search for truth, and a willingness to surrender our preconceived notions. It demands a genuine encounter with Jesus through prayer, reading His Word, and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is an invitation to move beyond head knowledge and embrace a personal, intimate relationship with the living God.

As we seek to answer this all-important question, let us remember that our response has profound implications. Acknowledging Jesus as the Christ demands a reorientation of our lives. It requires us to align our priorities, our desires, and our actions with His will. It calls us to lay down our selfish ambitions, take up our cross daily, and follow Him with unwavering commitment (Matthew 16:24-26).

When we truly understand and declare Jesus as the Christ, our lives are transformed. We find hope in the midst of despair, joy in times of sorrow, and purpose in the midst of confusion. We discover forgiveness for our sins, restoration of our brokenness, and eternal life in Him. Through faith in Jesus, we are adopted into the family of God, becoming sons and daughters of the Most High (Romans 8:15-17).

Would you take time today to answer the question Jesus poses with honesty and sincerity? It is a question that demands a response, and our eternal destiny hangs in the balance (John 3:36). May our answer echo the words of Peter, resounding with conviction and faith: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!”

Ponder

1. Who do you say Jesus is? Take a moment to honestly evaluate your perception of Jesus. Is He merely a historical figure, a moral teacher, or the Son of God and Savior?
2. In what ways does your belief in Jesus as the Messiah impact your daily life? Evaluate how your faith in Jesus as the Anointed One of God influences your choices, priorities, and relationships. Are there areas where your beliefs need to align more closely with your actions?
3. How has your understanding of Jesus evolved over time? Reflect on your journey of faith and consider how your perception of Jesus has grown or changed. Have you experienced a deeper revelation of His identity?

Scripture Writing: John 3:36

For more daily devotions like this – At the Potter’s Wheel (Kindle)