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,
When 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? If we were asked the same question today, many would feel that believing in you is an exclusive club for only those who are holy and upright—for really good people.
However, that’s not the truth, and we pray that as the world asks us about You, You give us the courage to share the truth with them. You came to save those lost and hurting, everyone who feels 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. You came to redeem all and to grant your forgiveness through your suffering and death on the cross.
Others might think believers must be educated and have a vast knowledge of the bible to follow you. Once again, that’s not true; it’s in knowing how much you loved us that you willingly gave your life on the cross to forgive sinners. By trusting in you, we are restored to the Father and united with his peace. It’s a free gift brought to us by faith alone in You. 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 our heavenly Father will continue to reveal this truth of forgiveness and salvation through the Spirit so that more will believe in you. Please let us share this with those who do not know you so they can receive the true peace that only comes through you. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
God has made his plan of salvation straightforward; it comes through faith alone in Jesus, knowing and trusting in his love; he brings us his forgiveness. By believing in Jesus’ forgiveness, the gates of heaven are open to you, and salvation is yours through Christ.