Peter’s Confession and Jesus’ Church
Jesus accomplishes his mission through his Church, but our part in a local church can be challenging as well as rewarding. In Matthew 16, we discover part of the foundation for God’s work through his Church and our part in it. How might God be calling you to be part of his mission through LifePoint Church?
Read through Matthew 16:13-19, and perhaps the expanded passage through verse 28. Consider the response to Jesus’ first question, “Who do people say that I am” (v. 13). What do people say about Jesus today and what similarities do you find between the modern response and the response in v. 14?
How does Peter’s declaration, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (v.16) elevate the message about Jesus’ identity?
What do you hear most clearly when you read how Jesus described the mission of his church in verses 17-19?
How have your experiences in churches been positive and helpful as well as difficult and challenging?
Why is it important and valuable to be part a local church? How does our love for other people demonstrate our love for Jesus?
How might Jesus be calling you to be part of his mission? Ask Jesus if he is calling you to take another step of engagement with his church.
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