Matthew 16:21 is about Jesus foretelling his own death and resurrection, which signify the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity.
21 From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 16:21
In Matthew chapter 16, after Peter declares that Jesus is the Messiah, Jesus begins to reveal to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem, suffer at the hands of the elders, chief priests, and scribes, be killed, and on the third day be raised. This revelation takes place in a quiet and serene setting, away from the crowds that usually surround Jesus. The scene is set on a hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee, with the gentle breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers.
The disciples, including Peter, James, and John, are gathered around Jesus, their faces reflecting a mix of confusion, concern, and disbelief at his words. They had been following Jesus for some time, witnessing his miracles and teachings, but this revelation about his impending suffering and death catches them off guard. Peter, in his usual impulsive manner, tries to rebuke Jesus for speaking in such a way, but Jesus sternly corrects him, emphasizing the necessity of his upcoming sacrifice for the salvation of humanity.
As the sun begins to set over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the group, the weight of Jesus’ words hangs heavy in the air, setting the stage for the profound events that will soon unfold in Jerusalem.
What is Matthew 16:21 about?
Jesus is sharing a profound and significant moment with his disciples in this verse. Jesus is revealing a crucial part of God’s plan for the salvation of humanity by predicting his own death and resurrection. This declaration showcases Jesus’s divine nature and the ultimate sacrifice he will make for the redemption of all people.
Reflecting on this verse, we are reminded of the immense love and compassion that God has for us. It prompts us to ponder the depth of Jesus’s sacrifice and the magnitude of his resurrection, which brings hope and eternal life to those who believe. This message challenges us to contemplate the significance of Jesus’s words and encourages us to reflect on the profound impact they have on our faith and salvation journey. This revelation from Jesus transforms your understanding of God’s plan for salvation and inspires you to delve deeper into your relationship with Him.
Understanding what Matthew 16:21 really means
In Matthew 16:21, we witness a crucial turning point in Jesus’ ministry as He begins to disclose to His disciples the necessity of His impending suffering, death, and resurrection. This revelation follows Peter’s acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah, signifying a transition from recognizing Jesus’ identity to comprehending the purpose of His earthly mission.
As the verse states, “Jesus began to show His disciples,” we see a shift in Jesus’ teaching approach, moving towards preparing His followers for the profound reality of His sacrificial mission. The phrase “He must go to Jerusalem” carries significant weight, highlighting Jerusalem as the religious epicenter where prophets often faced persecution, setting the stage for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice.
Moreover, Jesus foretells that He will “suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes,” indicating the opposition and suffering He anticipates from the religious authorities. His subsequent mention of being “killed, and on the third day be raised” lays the foundation for the core tenet of the Christian faith – the crucifixion and resurrection, offering believers the hope of eternal life through His victory over death.
This verse finds resonance in Old Testament prophecies like Isaiah 53:3-5, which foretells the suffering servant, aligning with Jesus’ predictions of His own suffering and death. Additionally, in Luke 24:26, Jesus elucidates to the disciples on the road to Emmaus the necessity of His suffering before entering into His glory, reinforcing the divine plan unfolding through His sacrifice.
For contemporary believers, understanding the depth of Jesus’ mission unveils the profound love of God and the redemptive purpose behind Christ’s sacrifice. It prompts Christians to embrace challenges and tribulations as integral to their spiritual journey, knowing that just as Jesus rose from the dead, they too can find renewal and redemption through their trials.
Consider the story of Sarah, a young woman called to a demanding mission field, mirroring the opposition and hardship Jesus predicted for Himself. Through meditating on Matthew 16:21, Sarah discovers strength and purpose in her struggles, recognizing that her suffering holds significance and that she walks in the footsteps of her Savior.
In conclusion, Matthew 16:21 serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrificial nature of discipleship and the profound hope embedded in the promise of resurrection. It beckons believers to delve deeper into the understanding of Jesus’ mission and to embrace their own crosses, trusting in the assurance of new life that springs forth from trials and tribulations.
What must I deny to follow Christ?
To follow Christ, one must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. This denial of self involves surrendering one’s own desires, ambitions, and selfish tendencies to prioritize following Jesus and carrying out His will. It requires a willingness to let go of personal comforts, conveniences, and aspirations that may not align with the teachings and values of Christ. This act of denial is a fundamental aspect of discipleship, as it signifies a commitment to putting Christ first in all aspects of one’s life. A person acknowledges their need for Jesus as the ultimate guide, example, and source of salvation by denying oneself and taking up the cross to follow Christ. This denial signifies a shift in focus from self-centered living to Christ-centered living, where decisions, actions, and priorities are aligned with the teachings of Jesus. It involves a daily choice to submit to God’s will, even when it may be contrary to one’s own desires or worldly expectations. Denying oneself to follow Christ ultimately demonstrates a commitment to live in accordance with the love and grace of Jesus, requiring faith, trust, and obedience.
Application
Embrace the teachings of Jesus with unwavering faith and conviction. Let His words be a guiding light in the darkness of the modern world. Carry His message in your heart, allowing it to reshape your life and interactions with others. Will you heed the call to embody the love and humility of Christ in all that you do?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.