Daily Devotional for Friday, October 6

Jesus Questions His Disciples

“And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou are the Christ,” Mark 8:29.

Throughout the gospels, Jesus was referred to by several different names, including Master, Teacher, Rabbi and Son of Man. Today’s Scripture reading mentions that some called Him Elias, John the Baptist or one of the prophets. One thing for sure, many wereconfused about Him.

The Jews knew there was a Messiah coming. He was to come in as a reigning king to set His people free. At least this was what the Jews had in mind. The only thing Jesus seemed to do was upset people. This could not possibly be the Messiah!

Even though Isaiah 53 depicts a picture of one who would suffer, the Jews focused on the prophecies of a deliverer. Now, they were bewildered about this man who went around healing all sorts of diseases and sometimes on the Sabbath, nonetheless. They were perplexed by His teachings in the synagogue. Many were angered. There were so many asking questions about who He was. His speech and His power told of someone with authority. His life told of someone who had a substandard existence.

Yet some people did believe who He was! Jesus already knew who men perceived Him to be. The question to the disciples was more for them to know and understand who He was. Peter gave the right answer, “Thou art the Christ.” Then Jesus forbade or commanded them not to tell anyone.

Why? Because it would cause even more of an uproar among the people. Even though there were times that the disciples doubted or were amazed at what they saw Jesus do, their true desire was to grow in faith. “And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith” (Luke 17:5).

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: Are there times your faith seems to waver? In the flesh there will be times you doubt, you question, but be as the disciples and ask for your faith to be increased.

Karry Irizarry