Prayer and Conversation Guide #8 of 8
Based on sermon: “Who Do You Say I Am?”
1. Read Matt. 16:13-17.
Why was it important for Jesus to know what His disciples thought about Him?
Was Jesus insecure?
Did He need His ego boosted?
2. To be referred to as Elijah or Jeremiah was a high compliment,
as both were to be forerunners of the true Messiah. (See Mal. 4:5.)
Why wouldn’t Jesus be satisfied with these opinions?
3. These are some of the things Jesus proclaimed about Himself:
John 6:15; 8:12; 8:58; 10:9; 10:11; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1.
Which of these metaphors brings you the most comfort?
In which of these ways have you experienced Jesus the most?
4. Jesus’ own family thought He was mad.
Why? (See Mark 3:20, 21)
What was their real issue with Jesus?
Have you ever had family members think you were “brainwashed” or crazy because of your faith?
Share how that feels.
5. The teachers of the law thought Jesus was demon possessed. (See Mark 3:22)
How does the testimony of the demons themselves in Mark 1:24 prove otherwise?
How is it that demons can recognize Christ for who He is, but many humans cannot?
6. Read John 18:33-38.
Pilate was curious but not committed.
Describe a time in your spiritual life when you may have been like this.
Pilate also gave the testimony, “I find no fault in Him at all.”
He then washed His hands and absolved himself of any responsibility for Jesus.
How is this happening today?
Have you ever ducked responsibility for believing in Jesus?
7. Discuss this statement:
“Many don’t want the responsibility of belief because to believe is to be changed;
to believe is to follow;
to believe is to bow the knee and obey Jesus as Lord.”
8. Peter finally answers in Matt. 16:16. Read Jesus’ reply in verse 17.
Why do you think Jesus replies this way?
What do we learn about coming to belief in Christ from His response?
9. What about you? Who do you say Jesus is?
What does your verdict mean for your life when you leave this study today?
10. More radical than what Jesus said about Himself is what He said about you!
See Matt. 5:13, 14; 13:46;
John 15:15, 16; 1:12; 15: 1, 5;
Acts 1:8.
How does this make you feel?
