207 Thrive Deeper: Matthew 16-22

This part of the Gospel of Matthew focus on some of the pivotal moments in Jesus’ mission. Jesus gathered His disciples and asked them, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” Peter boldly declared, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus blessed Peter for this revelation, which was divinely inspired, and foretold the establishment of His church. Jesus began to prepare His disciples for the suffering He would endure. He spoke of His impending death and resurrection, but Peter, unable to accept this fate, rebuked Him. Jesus, recognizing the devil’s influence, sternly corrected Peter and emphasized the cost of discipleship – self-denial and taking up one’s cross. Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain where He was transfigured before them, revealing His divine glory. Moses and Elijah appeared, and a voice from a bright cloud proclaimed, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.” Descending from the mountain, they encountered a crowd, and Jesus healed a boy possessed by a demon after His disciples had failed to do so. He reminded them of the power of faith. As they moved towards Jerusalem, Jesus taught about humility, forgiveness, and the importance of childlike faith. We meet the rich young man who asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Entering Jerusalem, Jesus was welcomed with shouts of “Hosanna!” as He rode on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy of the coming King. He cleansed the temple, driving out those who had turned it into a marketplace, and continued to teach and heal. The religious leaders, feeling threatened, questioned Jesus’ authority, but He responded with parables that highlighted their hypocrisy and foretold the kingdom of God being opened to all who believe.