During His ministry, Jesus had been preaching, performing miracles, and had done many amazing things. He wanted His disciples to tell Him what people were saying about Him, more specifically, who they were saying He was.
“13 When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”… 16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
(Matthew 16:13,16 NKJV)
Today, there are lots of things that people say about Jesus. If you took a survey of random people in the world, what would they say about Him? Some would say he was a liar, some would doubt he ever existed, some would say that he was a good man, and some might say He was a prophet.
Imagine Jesus asked you that question today, what would be your answer? Hopefully, you would answer the same answer which Peter gave, “He is the Christ, the Son of the living God!” The truth is, just because you say that you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that does not necessarily mean that you truly mean it. What speaks even louder than your words, is your actions. For example, you may tell someone that you love them, but if your actions do not also demonstrate this love, it does not mean anything. This is why we are told to love in action (see 1 John 3:18).
How do your actions respond to this question? Do they say you only see Jesus as the Christ, when things are good? Do they say you only see Jesus as Christ if you have sinned and need mercy? Or do your actions proclaim Jesus is the Christ on a daily basis? If you believe Jesus is truly the Son of God and therefore your Lord, it will change every aspect of your life. It will change your desires, it will change the way you love, it will change how you speak to others, and what you do for others. Jesus said that when your actions changed by service to Jesus, others will be able to see the light of God in your actions, and God will be glorified (see Matthew 5:16).
As you go through this coming week, when you encounter your coworkers and friends I encourage you to think about and answer Jesus’ question with your words and your actions: “Who do you say that I am?” If you truly believe that Jesus is the Son of God, then obey Him and make Him the Lord of your life. Show others that He is God, tell others about Him and the impact He has had on your life. Show your love for Him for His sacrifice for you on the cross and the other blessings you have through Him.
Based on a sermon from Nathan Springer at Concord Church of Christ on 2/10/2019.
Concord Church of Christ 