“Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’” – Matthew 16:16
In a world that often celebrates quick decisions and even quicker changes of heart, the word “commitment” can feel outdated—especially when it comes to matters of faith. But in Matthew 16, we see Peter make a bold and foundational confession:
“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
This wasn’t just a moment of clarity—it was a turning point in Peter’s life. He wasn’t simply identifying Jesus correctly; he was making a declaration of allegiance. His words were a yes of commitment, one that would shape the rest of his journey.
Confessing Jesus as Lord
When Peter confessed Jesus as the Messiah, he was acknowledging more than a title—he was recognizing Jesus as the promised Savior and the rightful King over all. That kind of confession isn’t just about words; it’s about surrendering the direction of our lives to the One who reigns.
Saying “yes” to Jesus means declaring Him as Lord—not just once, but daily. It means allowing His truth to shape our thoughts, actions, decisions, and priorities. Peter didn’t fully understand everything in that moment (and he certainly had some ups and downs ahead), but his confession was real, and Jesus honored it.
A Yes That Perseveres
Peter’s story is far from perfect. He wavered, he misunderstood, and he even denied Jesus when the pressure became too much. But what sets Peter apart is that he didn’t stay down. After failure, he returned. After weakness, he recommitted. After denial, he was restored.
Commitment doesn’t mean never falling—it means getting back up again. Jesus didn’t choose Peter because he had it all together. He chose Peter because He saw a heart willing to follow, even if it stumbled along the way.
In the same way, our yes to Jesus will be tested. We may face doubts, fear, or even failure. But commitment says, “I’m still following, even when it’s hard.”
Application
Confession of Faith
Take time this week to reflect on your own confession of faith. Have you declared Jesus as Lord not only with your lips but also with your life? Reaffirm your commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly.
Perseverance in Difficulties
Think about the challenges you’ve faced—or are facing now—in your walk with Jesus. What would it look like to press on in faith? Ask the Holy Spirit for strength to remain faithful, even when the road is tough.
Reflect and Discuss
What does it mean to confess Jesus as Lord in our daily lives?
How can our words, choices, and attitudes reflect this confession?
How can we cultivate a deeper commitment to following Jesus?
What spiritual practices help strengthen our faith and perseverance?
Share a time when your commitment to following Jesus was tested, and how you persevered.
Your story could be a powerful reminder that God’s grace carries us through.
Closing Thought
Peter reminds us that following Jesus isn’t about perfection—it’s about devotion. His yes of commitment, though imperfect, was sincere and strong enough to carry him through failure, redemption, and ultimately, bold leadership in the early church.
Your yes matters. Even when tested. Even when stretched. Let Peter’s story encourage you to keep saying yes—again and again—to the One who called you.
Just as the “Yes” of a wedding couple means more than the single yes of that moment, the “Yes” of our conversion takes in more than that one moment. One big “Yes” of conversion includes a lot of little “Yes” moments of the future.