Who Do You Say That I Am?

by

A Personal Journey of Faith from Mark 8:27-30

In our relationships, certain questions can test and define the nature of our connection with others. One of the most powerful questions we can face is “What do you think?” This simple question demands honesty and can either strengthen or strain relationships.

Video:

The above is for the message only. You can watch the entire March 16 service here on Youtube

Audio only

The Critical Question Jesus Asks

n Mark 8:27-30, Jesus poses a similar but more profound question to his disciples. First, he asks about public opinion: “Who do people say I am?” The disciples share various responses – some think he’s John the Baptist, others say Elijah or another prophet.

But then Jesus makes it personal, asking, “Who do you say I am?” Peter responds definitively: “You are the Messiah.”

Why Does Your Personal Answer Matter?

Your answer to who Jesus is affects everything about how you follow Him:

  • It shapes your relationship with Him
  • It influences how you navigate challenges
  • It determines your level of commitmentI
  • It impacts how you live out your faith daily

Can You Borrow Someone Else’s Faith?

While community support is valuable, faith must be personally owned. You cannot:

  • Rely solely on your pastor’s faith
  • Live off your parents’ beliefs
  • Depend entirely on your friends’ convictions
  • Sustain yourself on others’ spiritual experiences

Living What You Believe

Believing Jesus is the Messiah should transform how we live. Ask yourself:

  • Does my daily life reflect my proclaimed beliefs?
  • Do my relationships demonstrate Christ-like love?
  • Am I leaning on God in ways that show I trust Him?
  • Does my worship reflect who I say Jesus is?

The Role of Community in Faith

While faith must be personal, community plays a vital role:

  • Provides accountability
  • Offers encouragement
  • Strengthens individual faith
  • Creates space for authentic growth

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to:

  1. Honestly answer who Jesus is to you personally
  2. Evaluate if your life reflects your stated beliefs
  3. Identify specific areas where your actions don’t align with your faith
  4. Share your journey with a trusted friend or small group

Ask yourself:

  • What areas of my life don’t reflect who I say Jesus is?
  • Who can I invite to help me live more authentically in my faith?
  • What specific changes can I make this week to better align my actions with my beliefs?

Remember, this journey isn’t about perfection but about authentic growth in relationship with Jesus.