A boy who idolizes a basketball star spends hours in training, and a young couple captivated by a missionary starts packing for the other side of the world, we become what we believe in. That is why the question Jesus asked his disciples near Caesarea Philippi turns out to be the most important question of a lifetime (Matthew 16). The message shows how easily we read our own expectations into Jesus, and what his invitation really means: deny yourself, take up your cross and follow him. Listen and ask yourself which Jesus you are actually following.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Near Caesarea Philippi, Jesus first asks who people say He is, and then: "But who do you say I am?" Why was this question still necessary after about two years of life together?
- Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah, yet moments later hears: "Get behind me, Satan." How did the disciples' picture of the Messiah differ from the one Jesus reveals in Matthew 16?
- The sermon says our image of Jesus often reflects us more than Him: Jesus the buddy, the occasional Jesus, the Jesus who asks for nothing. Which of these images most easily creeps into your thinking?
- The speaker stresses that we become what we believe in. In which area of your life is it most visible who Jesus really is to you, and where does something else become your point of reference?
- According to the sermon, taking up your cross means accepting the pain of choosing Jesus, such as forgiving when you don't want to or staying when you'd rather leave. Where do you feel that cost of following Him today?
- Jesus asks not only whether you follow Him, but whether you are ready to imitate Him. What one concrete decision can you make this week to deny yourself and act the way He would?
