Asking the Right Question: Who Do You Say Jesus Is?
Sometimes the right question can change everything. A missionary once told of living in the South American jungle where the days regularly soared over 100 degrees. Longing for relief, he considered cooling off in the river, but hesitated—he had heard the water was full of piranhas.
The locals assured him the fish only attacked when swimming in schools, and that they never did in that part of the river. Trusting their word, he swam safely all summer. Months later, however, a fisherman disappeared. Alarmed, the missionary asked if piranhas had killed him. “Oh no,” the locals explained. “Piranhas never swim in schools here… because of the alligators.”
That story reminds us of a truth: asking the right question—and getting the right answer—can mean the difference between safety and destruction. The same is true spiritually.
What Question Did Jesus Ask His Disciples?
In Luke 9:18–20, Jesus asked His disciples two questions: “Who do the people say I am?” and then, more personally, “But who do you say that I am?”
The crowds had plenty of answers—John the Baptist, Elijah, maybe a prophet. But only Peter stepped forward in faith: “You are the Christ of God.”
Why Does This Question Still Matter Today?
In every part of life, the right questions shape our direction. Builders ask the right questions before laying a foundation. Families ask the right questions before making important decisions. And spiritually, we must all wrestle with Jesus’ question.
Are We Settling for Speculation Instead of Faith?
Too often we stop short. We admire His teaching. We speculate about His miracles. We weigh in on church debates. But unless we personally confess, believe, and follow Him, we miss the heart of the gospel.
Who Is Jesus to You—Teacher or Savior?
The truth is simple and life-changing: Jesus is not just a wise teacher or moral leader. He is the Messiah—the Son of God—who willingly went to the cross for you and me. He calls us not only to believe, but also to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him.
How Will You Answer His Question?
Each of us must decide. Are you ready to move beyond speculation and declare for yourself who Jesus is?
Reflect:
Who do you say Jesus is?
Are you content to echo what others believe, or will you answer for yourself?
If Jesus is the Christ, what does that mean for the way you live, work, and serve today?
Pray:
Lord Jesus, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Forgive me for the times I reduce You to just a teacher or an idea. I believe You are my Savior who gave His life for me. Help me to take up my cross daily, to follow You faithfully, and to let my life clearly declare who You are. In Jesus’ name, amen.