Who Do You Say That I Am?

This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 16:13-28. Our text could be grouped into three sections around these three headers. We'll see the identity of Jesus in verses 13-20. Secondly, we'll see the mission of Jesus in verses 21-23. Thirdly, we'll see the call of Jesus in verses 24-28. We'll explore who is Jesus, what must he do, and what does he call his followers to do? Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the Living God who must suffer and die. He calls his disciples to follow him on the path of self-denial and losing your life. Following Jesus involves embracing, taking up your cross, and following Jesus to death. In so doing, we find life and salvation.

Jesus lost his life to save us. He took up his cross and denied himself so that we might find life. Jesus took the ultimate loss so that we could gain eternal life and communion with God. When we see Jesus doing this for us and experience the grace of God in the gospel, we'll have the courage to count the cost and see the joy that's before us as we lose our lives for his sake.