Matthew 16:21—17:27: The Work of the King
ONE OF THE rules of good management is "No surprises." While surprises can be fun, they can also be upsetting. Good corporate leadership seeks to eliminate surprises so that everything runs according to plan.
Now that the disciples have been with Jesus for a while, he must prepare them for the true nature of his kingdom. They are shocked at the cost of his mission and his requirements for discipleship.
Warming Up to God
Recall an unpleasant surprise you received. How did you handle it?
Read Matthew 16:21—17:27. »
Discovering the Word
- What were some of the surprises the disciples received?
- Peter and Jesus seem to be at cross purposes in 6:22-23. Why do you think Jesus addresses Peter as Satan?
- What does Jesus reveal about the cost and rewards of following him (16:24-28)?
- What would the disciples learn about Jesus by his transformed appearance, his conversation with Moses and Elijah, and the voice from heaven (17:1-8)?
- How might this help resolve their confusion about Jesus' impending death?
- As a result of their powerlessness, what do the disciples learn about faith?
Applying the Word
- How has following Jesus produced times of confusion for you?
- We don't always understand life from a heavenly perspective. How can this passage reorient your thinking?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to help you understand his ways so that you can be a better disciple.
For Further Study
Jesus the Messiah by Robert H. Stein