Questions for Reflection
Read Matthew 16:13-18 & 21-26
- What is Peter’s confession in verse 16? What did he think it would mean for Jesus to be the Messiah?
- What was Peter’s “rebuke” for Jesus in verse 22? Why do you think Peter responded so strongly to Jesus’ words about suffering?
- Jesus’ response to Peter in verse 23 is extreme: “Get behind me Satan!” Why did Jesus respond with such intensity? What was it about Peter’s rebuke that was so dangerous, in Jesus’ mind?
- Pastor Scott talked about our temptation to be self-sufficient instead of God-sufficient, and our tendency to be independent instead of embracing inter-dependence within the Body of Christ. In what ways do you struggle with self-reliance and self-sufficiency?
- What do you need to surrender to the Lord this week? It could be in your personal life or in the life of the church: perhaps your expectations, your hopes, your need for control, your cultural biases, your religious routines, and preferences… What do you need to surrender?
If you would like to join a small group, please contact Pastor Annie at or call 626.817.4876 to get connected.
Scott White