Rex's Reflections: Who Do You Say I Am?
Welcoming the FGCU Chamber Choir
This Sunday, August 23, we welcome back the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Chamber Choir led by Dr. Trent Brown. This has been an annual tradition for over a decade and it’s always a special Sunday when they are with us. The service concludes with the choir surrounding the congregation and singing us out with a blessing. You won’t want to miss it!
The Question at Caesarea Philippi
Our Scripture reading for this week is from chapter sixteen of Matthew’s Gospel. Jesus and his disciples have come to Caesarea Philippi and he asks them two questions. First – “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” and second – “But who do you say that I am?” Jesus enquires about the public’s perception of him in contrast to their more intimate understanding. The public sees Jesus in the same vein as other great figures in Israel’s past, particularly the prophets. But, Peter gives the correct answer, “You are the Messiah, the son of the living God.” Jesus responds with a phrase that has divided opinions on its meaning. There is also a bit of wordplay going on, as well. “…You are Peter (which means “rock”), and on this rock I will build my church…”
What Jesus Means to Us Today
Who do people say that Jesus is today? The Western world continues to see a decline in religiosity and more and more people do not believe as we do. Some even have a negative view of who Jesus is or at least a negative view of those who proclaim to follow him. Who do we say Jesus is? At the most basic level, being a Christian means believing Jesus is Lord. We have lots of names for Jesus: Son of Man, Prince of Peace, Savior, Lord, Word in flesh, but what does Jesus mean to us personally? How does our belief in Jesus affect the way we live our lives?
I look forward to worshipping with you either in-person or online as we explore these questions together while offering our thanks and praise to God. The sermon title is “Who Do You Say I Am?”
Peace,
Rex
Rev. Rex Childs
Associate Pastor
