Questions From Jesus – Matthew 16 – Group Study

Crosspointchurchtx   -   April 21, 2025

Icebreaker

Let’s play 20 Questions. Have one person come up with a person, place, or thing. Then, have the group try to guess the answer by asking “yes or no” questions (up to 20 in total). 

 

Scripture Reading

Read Matthew 16:13-20 together as a group.

 

Discussion Questions

  1. Understanding the Context:
  • What is the significance of Jesus asking His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” in the region of Caesarea Philippi?
  • How does the setting of this question (amidst pagan worship) enhance its importance?

 

  1. Personal Reflection:
  • Why do you think Jesus first asked what others said about Him before asking the disciples directly?
  • How do you personally answer the question, “Who do you say that I am?” and what influences your answer?

 

  1. The Confession of Peter:
  • What does Peter’s confession, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God,” reveal about his understanding of Jesus?
  • How does this confession serve as the foundation for the Church?

 

  1. The Role of the Church:
  • What does it mean for the Church to be built on the confession of Jesus as the Messiah?
  • How can we, as members of the Church, ensure that our community is built on this foundation?

  1. Application of Authority:
  • Jesus gave the disciples the “keys to the kingdom.” What does this authority mean for us today?
  • How can we exercise this authority responsibly in our daily lives?

 

Application Points

  1. Personal Confession:
  • Reflect on your personal confession of who Jesus is. How does this confession influence your daily decisions and interactions?

 

  1. Community Impact:
  • Consider ways you can contribute to building a community that reflects the confession of Jesus as the Messiah. What practical steps can you take this week?

 

  1. Living with Authority:
  • Identify areas in your life where you can exercise the authority given by Christ to bring about positive change. How can you be a witness to others through your actions?

 

Closing Prayer

Conclude with a prayer, asking God to help each participant live out their confession of faith and to use their lives to glorify Him.