TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, “Who do people say I am?” Mark 8:27
Listen: Mark 8
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The conversation between Jesus and his disciples must have covered many topics. Somewhere between Bethsaida and Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked them the question that must have been on everyone’s mind, “Who do people say I am?” Because of his miracles and authoritative teaching, it was a question everyone had their own answer. Not the same answer, but an answer. “John the Baptist. Elijah, one of the prophets.” Israel’s history was filled with people who, conceivably, could return from the past and become the national hero.
Because that’s really what the people were looking for—a national hero to rescue them from the oppression of Rome. Rome’s heavy hand was everywhere. Roman soldiers, taxes, laws and gods. For hundreds of years, people looked expectantly for the Messiah, the Christ. They prayed daily for the Anointed One of God who would set them free from Rome once and for all.
Jesus’ question was initially addressed to the disciples on the road to Philippi. But it’s a question for us today, “Who do you say he is?” Of all the questions the Bible asks us to consider, this is among the most important. It’s one from which we can’t escape and one we all will ultimately answer.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Read Chapter Six of the book, A Doubter’s Guide to Jesus today with a pen or pencil in hand. Underline/highlight things that are significant to you. Download this lock screen as a reminder that you, like everyone, will need to answer this important question.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
