MPV Commentary

13. Jesus and Peter: The Rock and the Temptation (Matthew 16:21-28)

Jesus had just revealed to Peter that he was the Messiah, the Son of God. This revelation came after a series of events where Jesus asked his disciples who people said he was, and then asked them who they thought he was. Peter's bold declaration that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God, pleased Jesus, and he gave him a new name: Rock (Petros). This name signified that Peter would be the foundation upon which Jesus' church would be built.

However, this revelation came with a warning. Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes. He would be killed, but on the third day, he would rise again. This announcement was not just about Jesus' fate; it was also about what lay ahead for his followers.

Peter, still reeling from the revelation that Jesus was the Messiah, took Jesus aside and began to rebuke him. Peter's words were motivated by a desire to protect Jesus from harm, but they were also rooted in a misunderstanding of God's plan. Jesus turned to Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan!" This was not because Peter was inherently evil, but because his words were inspired by the devil, who was trying to tempt Jesus away from his mission.

Jesus then addressed all his disciples, saying that anyone who wanted to follow him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him. He emphasized that those who tried to save their lives would lose them, while those who lost their lives for his sake would find them. This was not a call to self-destruction but rather a call to surrender to God's plan.

Jesus then asked a rhetorical question: What good is it if someone gains the whole world but loses their soul? Or what can they give in exchange for their soul? This question highlights the value of one's soul and the consequences of prioritizing earthly gain over eternal life. Jesus was not saying that people cannot gain wealth or success, but rather that these things are worthless compared to the loss of one's soul.

The passage concludes with a warning about the Son of Man coming in his glory with his angels. Those who are ashamed of Jesus and his words will be ashamed when he comes in glory. This is not just a threat but also an encouragement to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity.

In this passage, we see Peter's growth from a bold declaration of faith to a moment of temptation and rebuke. We also see Jesus' emphasis on the importance of surrendering to God's plan, even when it seems difficult or painful. This passage reminds us that following Jesus requires us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow him, no matter what the cost.