To Us a Son Is GivenSample

What Child is This?

The question Jesus asked His disciples in today’s reading—“But who do you say that I am?”—is the same question that confronts us at Christmas. It’s not the question most people think about this time of year, and yet it determines the eternal destiny of everyone on Earth. Who was this child born to Mary and Joseph? Each of us must answer.

Jesus’ disciples report hearing several wrong answers to this question. Jesus was thought to be John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the other prophets. Those answers are understandable since Jesus was a prophet, but they are not sufficient. As Peter recognized, Jesus was (and is) “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Unless we see, that Jesus is the Christ (God’s Spirit-Anointed Deliverer) and the fully divine Son of God, then we will miss the point of Christmas. Worse yet, we will miss the salvation God freely offers us.

For those who have identified Jesus rightly, today’s reading also reminds us we have no reason for pride or boasting. We did not believe the gospel based on our own wisdom or insight. As Jesus reminded Peter, such truths are graciously revealed by “my Father who is in heaven.” The Father opens our eyes to see the true identity of this child who was born in Bethlehem. It is only by sovereign grace that we are saved.

Simple Summary

When Jesus asked His disciples who people thought He was, the disciples said John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. Only Peter gave the right answer—Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” However, Peter did not get this answer on his own or from another person. It was God the Father who opened Peter’s heart to see Jesus rightly. God does this for us too, opening our eyes to see that Jesus is His Son and the Savior we need.

Pray

Thank God for opening your eyes to the truth of the gospel. Ask Him to do the same for unbelieving family members, friends, and co-workers.