Day 4
Reading: Mark 7:31–8:33
SOAP: Mark 8:29–30
He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” Then he warned them not to tell anyone about him.
Mark’s Gospel continually asks “Who is Jesus?” Though this had been answered in many ways, the end of Mark 8 provides a clear answer to this question.
Though the disciples repeatedly displayed a lack of faith, Peter showed his understanding. Jesus asked His disciples who they said He was. Peter answered, “You are the Christ.”
Christ (Christos) is a Greek word meaning “Messiah” or “anointed one.” Peter showed his understanding of the scriptures and prophecies by calling Jesus the Christ. He proclaimed Jesus was the promised Messiah, the One to save the world from sin. Though he was often confused, impulsive, reactive, and sometimes reckless, Peter knew who Jesus was.
Jesus is the promised Messiah. From the first time that humans sinned, Jesus was promised to come. Jesus is the Savior the world had been waiting for. His life is a living display of God’s character and love. He is the Christ, the anointed One. Even in our failures, may we be as sure and as confident as Peter in Jesus. “You are the Christ.”
Lord, help me never to doubt who You are. Help me proclaim with confidence You are the Christ, the Messiah, who has come to save Your people from sin. Amen.