Matthew 16:13-17
When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But you, who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.”
Dear Lord Jesus,
As you were in that region filled with foreign idols and pagan worship, you asked, “Whom did people say you were?” How did people know you? And we ask, how do people today know you? We pray that you allow us to share who you are with them.
Many feel believing in you is an exclusive club for only those who are holy and upright—for really, really good people. But that is not the truth; you came to save those lost and hurting, trapped in their sin, guilt, and shame. Those people the world rejects because they don’t fit in; you came for them. You were not only the Son of man but also the Son of God; to redeem all who are sinful, you give forgiveness through repentance.
Others might think believers must be educated and know all this stuff to follow you. Once again, that is not true; it is in knowing how much you loved us that you willingly gave your life on the cross to forgive sinful people. By trusting in you, we are restored to the Father’s peace. It is a free gift brought to us by faith alone. Through faith and with Peter, we confess you are the Christ, the one anointed by God. You were called to suffer and die for our sins so that all who believe in you have eternal life.
We pray that your Father in heaven will continue to reveal this truth of forgiveness and salvation to all so more will believe in you. Please let us share this with those who do not know you, so they can receive the true peace which only comes through you. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Requirements to follow Jesus are not from God. God has made it as simple as possible; faith alone in Jesus’ love brings us his forgiveness. By believing and knowing Jesus’ forgiveness, the gates of heaven are open to you, and salvation is yours through Christ.