Matthew 16:21-23 – A Grave Mistake
There can be a lot of spiritual ignorance even in a true disciple of Christ. Peter tries to dissuade Jesus from suffering on the cross. He does not see the full purpose of Christ coming into the world. His eyes are blinded to the necessity of our Lord’s death, and he actually does what he can to prevent that death taking place at all. Yet we know that Peter is a converted man; he really believes that Jesus is the Messiah. His heart is right in the sight of God. This should teach us that we must not assume that good men will be perfect or that those who have a weak faith are unsaved. Like Peter they may be in the dark, and like Peter may one day enjoy the full light of the Gospel.
There is no teaching of Scripture so deeply important as the teaching of Christ’s atoning death. We cannot have clearer proof of this than the language used by our Lord in rebuking Peter. He addresses him as Satan, as if he is an enemy, and doing the devil’s work, in trying to prevent His death. Stronger words than these never came from Christ. The error that drew from such a loving Saviour such a stern rebuke to such a true disciple, must have been a mighty error indeed.
The truth is that our Lord would have us regard the crucifixion as the central truth of Christianity. Right views of His death and the benefits that come from it are at the heart of what we believe. Never let us forget this. Christ’s atoning death is the way of peace, the only way to God. If we are wrong here, we are ruined forever. If we give up or alter the death of Christ on our behalf, we have no hope at all.
Questions
- What does Peter try to do?
- Why does Jesus rebuke him so strongly?
Prayer Points
- Give thanks for Christ’s death on your behalf.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.