Do you recognize this quotation from Jesus? Matthew and Mark, both tell us this story. Matthew 16:23 tells the same story Mark gives us in chapter 8 and verse 33.

The story begins with the Pharisees asking for a sign. They have seen Jesus heal hundreds of people. He has cast demons out of others. The demons have tried to announce to bystanders that Jesus is the Son of God. Others recognize that He is the Messiah or Christ. The anointed one is another prophetic name that is used for Him.

Jesus later asks the disciples who the people think He is. They list names I have stated and others. He then asks who they say that He is. Simon calls Him the Christ, the Son of the Living God. Can you get more specific than that?

This is when Jesus starts to tell them that He will be persecuted and crucified and will arise on the third day. He does not stop reminding them of this coming event. He wants them to understand that it is necessary for Him to die and be raised from the dead.

This first time Peter objects. The Apostles will not allow Jesus to die. They will give their lives for Him. That is when the Lord states, “Get behind me, Satan.” Jesus recognizes that Simon Peter does not want to lose His friend and teacher. Satan wants to convince the Savior to become a king like David.

Peter was chastised for this statement. I make comments to others that should never have left my mouth. I criticize, contradict, and constrain the faith and lives of those around me. I may give them the idea that they must agree with me or that I think less of them. It is difficult to keep these thoughts from becoming words.

How do we stop the concepts and ideas in our minds from emanating through our voices? Can we prevent the thoughts in the first place? It is difficult. It can be done. Reject these concepts as soon as they inhabit your mind. That is what Jesus did. Peter voiced Satan’s desire and he was called out on what he was really saying.

He did not wish to stop Jesus from doing what the Father had sent Him to accomplish. The disciples expected a kingdom to be established in Jerusalem. They did not realize that first, salvation for the world needed to be purchased. The death and resurrection of a sinless human was required. No one could do this but Jehovah.

We know Him as God’s son. Jesus Christ is another name and title He is known by. He is also the I Am. It is difficult for us to recognize Jesus as Yahweh. It is easier to think of the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost. He is a triune being like us. We were made in His image.

Simon Peter knew the man Jesus was the foretold Messiah. The Jews had been waiting for Him to defeat the Romans and take the throne of Israel. All twelve, as well as hundreds of others, could be mobilized to fight for Israel and their King. That was not his mission. But after He arose from the grave, He told them He would return to be their King. I’m still waiting. Are you?

©Copyright 2023 by Charles Kensinger