Read Mark 8:27-33
This was the first public confession of Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ. Upon hearing the confession Jesus warned that this truth must not be broadcast. It was not time for this declaration. This must have been mighty affirming for Jesus to hear these words from Peter.
The followers of Jesus had perhaps been thought this and even privately discussed it, but this was the first time one spoke up and confessed this to Jesus.
Jesus then taught the disciples what kind of Messiah he was. Preconceived notions of the disciples of a Messiah coming to lead a rebellion against Rome or overthrowing the corrupt leadership of the Temple were about to be dashed by Jesus. Jesus described himself as a suffering servant who would be killed and rise again. Peter nor the others had any categories for this type of Messiah. Although the disciples had their terminology correct (Messiah), the definition and understanding had a long way to go. This turning point in the ministry of Jesus would begin a re-education of the Disciples to God’s plan for Jesus to obediently face the cross. This would inevitably be Jesus’ future, but it was not yet time. Jesus had much more that he desired to teach his followers.
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