Lessons in Faith

We can often limit God through our unbelief. In this chapter the disciples are taught about the kind of faith that it will take to deliver souls, move mountains, choose not to offend and to obey in spite of the improbability of miracles.

The Kingdom of Heaven

In the Kingdom, greatness is found in humility and purity of faith like that of a child, and those are called to the kingdom will deal aggressively with their sin. 

Final Instructions on Unity

When there has been sin, disobedience to the instructions given for reconciliation can lead to division. The church is given the authority to convict or acquit those found in sin. 

Who is Jesus?

Standing at the “Gates of Hell” in Caesarea Philippi, Jesus declares that the foundation of the church will be built upon the fact that Jesus is the Christ the Son of the Living God. This is a requirement that every disciple must believe.

Keys of the Kingdom

Still standing at the “Gates of Hell” Jesus gives Peter the authority to open the kingdom of Heaven to those who will receive it.  These will deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Him. The kingdom of hell is open to those who do not.

The Transfiguration

Jesus the Messiah, in whom the Father is pleased, reveals His divine authority and His glory. Jesus will take His disciples to a high mountain where they are eyewitnesses of His transfiguration. There He corrects their perspective on the coming of Elijah.

He Does All Things Well

The disciples forget that Jesus is able to feed the multitudes. We learn that sometimes when God tells us no, it is all part of His perfect plan. He always knows what He is doing.

Blindness

Jesus has words with the Pharisees and Sadducees who cannot see the sign that was sent from heaven. He warns the disciples to beware of the leaven of hypocrisy and unbelief that caused the religious rulers blindness.

The Five Thousand

Though seeking time alone Jesus continually looks to the needs of others. He miraculously satisfies the hungry with the meager resources of His disciples.

Storms

When called on to serve, the disciples become hard of heart and blind to Jesus’ power. He uses the storm to bring revelation as to who He is and who they are.