Who Do You Say That I Am
Matthew 11 through 20
By Will Bourne · Bourne Again Media LLC
Matthew 11–20 · 11–20
The journey of this volume
Who is Jesus when His way challenges the outcome we hoped for? Matthew’s second movement brings questions, parables, provision, confession, and the call to follow the suffering Messiah into view. Begin with chapter 16, where Peter’s true confession still needs correction about the cross. This reading invites a faith that receives Christ’s identity and allows Him to define the shape of discipleship.
Where do my expectations need to follow Jesus rather than direct Him?
What you’ll explore
- Confessing the living Christ
- The cross within Messiah’s mission
- Authority entrusted beneath the King
- Discipleship shaped by grace
Confession received, discipleship learned
Begin with Matthew 16 in your Bible. Read Matthew 16 as one movement. Notice the demanded sign, remembered provision, Peter’s confession, and the announcement of Jesus’ suffering and resurrection.
The following reading summarizes Chapter 16, “The Chapter in View,” with a selected excerpt from the manuscript.
Matthew 16 moves from a demand for display toward the identity revealed in Peter’s confession. Remembered provision also helps the disciples hear beyond their immediate anxiety about bread.
Peter names Jesus rightly and then resists the suffering He announces. Will keeps Messiahship joined to the cross and resurrection: a true title still needs a teachable understanding of Christ’s mission.
Jesus builds His assembly and entrusts authority beneath His own lordship. Following Him brings ambition, control, and the value of life under a different measure. Discipleship receives grace and practices allegiance rather than seeking pain or power for its own sake.
Confession received, discipleship learned
Jesus calls Peter blessed because this recognition did not arise from flesh and blood but from the Father in heaven. Confession is not an achievement that makes Peter superior. It is grace received. The same disciple who receives revelation will soon need severe correction.
Will Bourne · From Commentary 16, “The Chapter in View,” in Who Do You Say That I Am
Following Christ through this movement
Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, the suffering and risen Messiah, and the Son of Man who comes in glory. His identity defines the meaning of the Church, its authority, and its calling.
His call invites people behind Him, where confession becomes obedience. Christian service remains subject to His character, protecting dignity and receiving correction rather than granting human leaders unchecked control.
Continue in Scripture
Daniel 7:13–14 · Philippians 2:5–11 · 1 Peter 2:4–10
Read these passages alongside the selected manuscript chapter. Keep each literary and historical setting in view while following the biblical witness toward Christ and faithful practice today.
A question to carry
What do I say about Jesus, and what does my response to His way reveal? Where might status, control, or self-protection be shaping my expectations?
Stay with one person or situation that comes to mind. Notice what this passage brings into view before deciding how to respond.
Back to section choices ↑One faithful step
Bring one expectation before Christ in prayer. Read His call to follow in its context, then choose one modest act of truth, mercy, or service that reflects His way. Receive wise counsel where the decision carries risk or affects others.
Back to section choices ↑A prayer for the journey
Jesus, Christ and Son of the living God, help us receive who You are and the way You reign. Correct our expectations with grace. Holy Spirit, form a teachable heart and courage for faithful love beneath the cross and resurrection. Amen.
Back to section choices ↑The formation emphasis in this volume
Will’s commentary holds the confession of Jesus together with the mission Jesus Himself announces. Peter’s recognition is received by grace, yet his expectations still need correction.
The formation emphasis is a teachable allegiance to the suffering and risen King. Entrusted authority serves Christ’s people, and faith learns to follow His way rather than make Him serve our ambition.
Editorial summary of Will Bourne’s manuscript.
Back to section choices ↑