Mark (p. 1782) Peter answered, “You are the Messiah.” (Books)
The Books of the Bible, NIV
Jesus heals the blind (p. 1782), casts out demons (p. 1781), miraculously multiplies bread to feed thousands, stills storms, and yet the disciples still don’t get it. Surely the Pharisees and leaders of Israel don’t understand who He is (p. 1782)? But finally, here, a breakthrough moment: Peter says, ‘You are the Messiah!’ Finally we have answer to the critical question asked back in ch. 4 – who is Jesus, “that even the wind and the waves obey him!” (p. 17176). He is the Messiah!
But looking ahead we see Mark transition, now that Jesus’ identity has been revealed, to the journey to Jerusalem. Now we can explore, what does it mean for Jesus to be the Messiah? What we’ll find is that the Messiah is also the suffering servant. The road to Jerusalem is the road to Jesus’ death. And He asks His disciples to make this journey to suffering with Him!
Jesus, I will follow when the crowds surround you and sing Your praises! But will I scatter when the guards come to crucify You? Will I be there with John at the foot of the cross to watch You die, to hold and comfort Your mother? Or will I be with Peter and the rest, nowhere to be found, until the glory of resurrection Sunday. Come Holy Spirit, strengthen me.
In Jesus’ name – Amen,
Son