Peter is confronted by the temple tax collection committee and Jesus doesn’t want this to become an issue. How he resolves this is quite interesting — he sends Peter fishing!
Matthew 17:24-27
Second prediction of Jesus’ death and resurrection
In the midst of excitement, Jesus explains his death and resurrection, but the disciples “did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.” It’s easy to relate to their confusion here. Read, pray, grow.
Matthew 17:22-23, Mark 9:30-32, Luke 9:43b-45
Healing of a demon-possessed boy and unbelief rebuked
The disciples were not able to drive out the demon from a boy, so Jesus has to step in and take care of the issue. But there’s a broader issue at stake here: complete faith. Memorable quotes like “Faith of a mustard seed to move a mountain,” and “everything is possible” for those who truly believe come from this passage.
Matthew 17:14-20, Mark 9:14-29, Luke 9:37-43a
Transfiguration of Jesus
His appearance changed before their eyes and they saw with Jesus two of the most significant men in Judaism: Moses and Elijah. He was transfigured, transformed into something more beautiful (Google’s definition). Peter speaks up (no surprise), let’s build something! Then they heard the voice of God say, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”
Matthew 17:1-13, Mark 9:2-13, Luke 9:28-36
Coming of the Son of Man and judgment
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