Speaking to his disciples, Jesus tells them they will “see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom,” but what does this actually mean? There are a wide array of interpretations worthy of diving into: Transfiguration, Resurrection, Pentecost, birth of the new Church. The language agrees across the Synoptics, so we need to look carefully at this passage.
Matthew 16:27-28, Mark 8:38-9:1, Luke 9:26-27
First direct prediction of the rejection, crucifixion and resurrection
Just when things seemed to be going well, Jesus begins to teach his disciples about the end of his presence among them. Peter’s reaction and Jesus’ rebuke are documented by Matthew and Mark. The business of Christ is serious, not for the faint of heart.
Matthew 16:21-26, Mark 8:31-37, Luke 9:22-25
Peter’s identification of Jesus as the Messiah and first prophecy of the church
Who do you say that I am? Peter spoke for the disciples: You are the Messiah.
Matthew 16:13-20, Mark 8:27-30, Luke 9:18-21
Two-Pass healing of a blind man at Bethsaida
Two applications of spit and hands are required for this healing. Why would Jesus need to touch the man twice?
Mark 8:22-26
It’s not about the bread, are you dense?
If the topic weren’t so serious, this passage would make me laugh–ok, it did, I confess. The disciples forgot to stock up for the trip, someone forgot to gather bread, while Jesus continues to teach. They were on two completely separate trains of thought!
Matthew 16:5-12, Mark 8:13-21
The Pharisees and Sadducees demand a sign
This brief encounter with the Pharisees and Sadducees reminds us not to test God.
Matthew 15:39-16:4, Mark 8:9b-12
The Decapolis: Healing and Feeding 4,000
Jesus continues to move, to preach, to heal and even to feed another massive crowd.
Matthew 15:29-38, Mark 7:31-8:9a
A Foreign Woman’s Faith, Eating crumbs
When a non-Israelite approaches Jesus, her faith wins his heart. Another example of women in the New Testament and an amazing story of faith.
Matthew 15:21-28, Mark 7:24-30
Conflict over the tradition of ceremonial uncleanness
Jewish leaders ignore the miraculous healing of people and focus their attention on their rules and regulations.
Matthew 15:1-20, Mark 7:1-23
Defection among the disciples
Jesus challenges those who call themselves disciples to rethink what they’re doing, who he really is and what they really believe. This is a turning point. John 6:60-71