New International VersionSimon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
New Living TranslationSimon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
English Standard VersionSimon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Berean Standard BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Berean Literal BibleAnd Simon Peter answering said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
King James BibleAnd Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
New King James VersionSimon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
New American Standard BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
NASB 1995Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
NASB 1977And Simon Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Legacy Standard BibleAnd Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Amplified BibleSimon Peter replied, “You are the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed), the Son of the living God.”
Christian Standard BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
Holman Christian Standard BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!”
American Standard VersionAnd Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Contemporary English VersionSimon Peter spoke up, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."
English Revised VersionAnd Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationSimon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!"
Good News TranslationSimon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."
International Standard VersionSimon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!"
NET BibleSimon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
New Heart English BibleSimon Peter answered, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Webster's Bible TranslationAnd Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Weymouth New Testament"You," replied Simon Peter, "are the Christ, the Son of the ever-living God." Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
World English BibleSimon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionAnd Simon Peter answering said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Berean Literal BibleAnd Simon Peter answering said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Young's Literal Translation and Simon Peter answering said, 'Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.'
Smith's Literal TranslationAnd Simon Peter having answered, said, Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleSimon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.
Catholic Public Domain VersionSimon Peter responded by saying, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
New American BibleSimon Peter said in reply, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
New Revised Standard VersionSimon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleSimon Peter answered and said, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishShimeon Kaypha answered, “You are The Messiah, The Son of THE LIVING GOD”. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentSimon Peter answered and said: Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Godbey New TestamentAnd Simon Peter responding said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Haweis New TestamentThen Simon Peter answering said, Thou art the Messiah, the Son of the living God.
Mace New TestamentSimon Peter made answer, thou art Christ the son of the living God.
Weymouth New Testament"You," replied Simon Peter, "are the Christ, the Son of the ever-living God."
Worrell New TestamentAnd Simon Peter, answering, said, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Worsley New TestamentAnd Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ the Son of the living God.
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Peter's Confession of Christ… 15“But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16SimonPeteranswered,“YouaretheChrist,theSonofthelivingGod.”17Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven.…
Cross References John 6:68-69Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life. / We believe and know that You are the Holy One of God.”
Mark 8:29“But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ.”
Luke 9:20“But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”
John 11:27“Yes, Lord,” she answered, “I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”
John 1:41He first found his brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated as Christ).
John 1:49“Rabbi,” Nathanael answered, “You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”
John 20:31But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.
Acts 2:36Therefore let all Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ!”
Acts 8:37And Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may be baptized.” The eunuch replied, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”
Romans 10:9that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
1 John 4:15If anyone confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.
1 John 5:1Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God, and everyone who loves the Father also loves those born of Him.
Isaiah 9:6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Daniel 7:13-14In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence. / And He was given dominion, glory, and kingship, that the people of every nation and language should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and His kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.
Psalm 2:7I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.
Treasury of Scripture And Simon Peter answered and said, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Thou. Matthew 14:33 Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. Matthew 26:63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. Matthew 27:54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. the living. Deuteronomy 5:26 For whois there of all flesh, that hath heard the voice of the living God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as wehave, and lived? Psalm 42:2 My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? Daniel 6:26 I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for heis the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdomthat which shall not be destroyed, and his dominionshall be even unto the end. Jump to Previous ChristEver-LivingPeterSimonJump to Next ChristEver-LivingPeterSimonMatthew 16 1.The Pharisees require a sign.5.Jesus warns his disciples of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.13.The people's opinion of Jesus,16.and Peter's confession of him.21.Jesus foretells his death;23.reproves Peter for dissuading him from it;24.and admonishes those who will follow him, to bear the cross.Simon Peter answeredPeter, often seen as the spokesperson for the disciples, responds to Jesus' question about His identity. This moment is pivotal, as it reflects Peter's role among the apostles and his growing understanding of Jesus' true nature. In the context of the Gospels, Peter's declaration is a turning point, highlighting his leadership and the revelation he received. Historically, Peter's confession is seen as a foundational moment for the early church, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Jesus' divine identity. You are the Christ The term "Christ" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," meaning "Anointed One." This title signifies Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the coming Savior and King. In Jewish expectation, the Messiah was anticipated to be a political and spiritual leader who would deliver Israel. Peter's recognition of Jesus as the Christ indicates a profound understanding that Jesus is the promised deliverer, though the full implications of His mission were not yet fully grasped by the disciples. the Son of the living God This phrase underscores the divine nature of Jesus, distinguishing Him from other religious leaders or prophets. The term "Son of God" implies a unique and intimate relationship with God the Father, affirming Jesus' divinity. The use of "living God" contrasts the God of Israel with the lifeless idols of surrounding nations, emphasizing God's active and dynamic presence. This declaration connects to other scriptural affirmations of Jesus' divine sonship, such as inJohn 1:14 andHebrews 1:3, and is central to Christian doctrine regarding the Trinity and the nature of Christ. Persons / Places / Events 1. Simon PeterOne of Jesus' twelve apostles, known for his strong faith and occasional impulsiveness. He is often seen as a leader among the disciples. 2. Jesus ChristThe central figure of Christianity, believed to be the Messiah and the Son of God. In this passage, He is recognized as such by Peter. 3. Caesarea PhilippiThe location where this conversation takes place. It was a region known for its pagan worship, making Peter's confession even more significant. 4. The DisciplesThe group of Jesus' followers who were present during this declaration. They were learning and growing in their understanding of Jesus' true identity. 5. The Living GodA term used to emphasize the active and eternal nature of God, contrasting with the dead idols worshiped in the surrounding areas. Teaching Points Confession of FaithPeter's declaration is a model for believers. Recognizing Jesus as the Christ and the Son of God is foundational to Christian faith. Revelation from GodUnderstanding Jesus' true identity is not just intellectual but is revealed by God. Believers should seek divine insight through prayer and study. Courage in ConfessionPeter's boldness in a pagan setting challenges believers to stand firm in their faith, even when surrounded by contrary beliefs. The Role of the ChurchPeter's confession is seen as a cornerstone for the Church. Believers are called to build their lives and communities on the truth of who Jesus is. Living FaithJust as Peter's understanding of Jesus grew, believers are encouraged to continually deepen their relationship with Christ and grow in their faith. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of Matthew 16:16?
2.How does Peter's confession in Matthew 16:16 affirm Jesus' divine identity today?
3.What does "You are the Christ" mean for our personal faith journey?
4.How does Matthew 16:16 connect with Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah?
5.How can we boldly confess Jesus as "the Son of the living God"?
6.How should Peter's declaration in Matthew 16:16 influence our daily witness for Christ?
7.What does Peter's confession in Matthew 16:16 reveal about Jesus' identity?
8.How does Matthew 16:16 support the belief in Jesus as the Messiah?
9.Why is Peter's declaration in Matthew 16:16 significant for Christian faith?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 16?
11.What are the Apocryphal Gospels?
12.What is the church's purpose?
13.What did Jesus mean by 'Upon this rock'?
14.What does loving Jesus entail?What Does Matthew 16:16 Mean Simon Peter answered• Peter speaks as the representative voice of the Twelve, showing their unified conviction (Matthew 15:15;John 6:68). • His response comes immediately after Jesus’ probing question, revealing a heart ready to confess what God has revealed (Matthew 16:15,17). • Throughout the Gospels Peter often steps forward—sometimes stumbling, sometimes shining—yet in this moment he gets it exactly right (Luke 5:8;Acts 2:14-36). You are the Christ• “Christ” means “Anointed One,” the long-awaited Messiah promised fromGenesis 3:15 onward. • Peter acknowledges that every prophetic shadow—David’s throne (2 Samuel 7:12-13), Isaiah’s Servant (Isaiah 53:4-6), Daniel’s Son of Man (Daniel 7:13-14)—finds fulfillment in Jesus (John 1:41;John 4:25-26). • By declaring Jesus to be the Christ, Peter affirms that the kingdom of God has arrived in the King Himself (Mark 1:14-15;Revelation 11:15). the Son of the living God• “Son” signals unique, eternal relationship, not mere creation (John 1:18;Hebrews 1:1-3). • “Living God” contrasts the true God with dead idols (Deuteronomy 5:26;1 Thessalonians 1:9), underscoring that Jesus shares the very life and nature of the Father (John 5:26;Colossians 2:9). • This confession stands at the heart of saving faith—that Jesus is both Messiah and divine Son (John 20:31;1 John 5:5). • The declaration foreshadows the resurrection power soon to be displayed, for only the living God can raise His Son and, through Him, give life to all who believe (Romans 1:4;1 Peter 1:3). summaryPeter’s words capture the full identity of Jesus: the promised Messiah who brings God’s kingdom and the divine Son who shares God’s very life. Recognizing and trusting this truth remains the cornerstone of authentic Christian faith and the foundation upon which Christ builds His Church. (16) Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.--The variations in the other Gospels--St. Mark giving simply, "Thou art the Christ," and St. Luke, "The Christ of God"--are interesting in their bearing on the question of literal inspiration, but do not affect the meaning; and the fullest of the three reports may be received without hesitation as the most authentic. The confession was made by Peter, partly, we may believe, as the representative of the others, partly, as the special promise that follows implies, from the personal fervour of his character. He believed himself, and had impressed his faith on them. His words reproduced the confession of John 6:69, even verbally, if we follow the received text, but the better MSS. of that Gospel have a different reading: "Thou art the Holy One of God." In any form they recognised to the full our Lord's character as the Christ; they identified Him with the Son of Man in Daniel's vision, and, more than this, they recognised in that Son of Man one who was also not " a son" only, but, in some high incommunicable sense, " the Son of the living God." Verse 16. - Simon Peter answeredand said. The ardent Peter, when all were asked, replies in the name of the rest, giving, however, his own personal sentiment and belief, as we see from Christ's answer (ver. 17). Some of the others probably would have been less ready to make the same confession; but in his vehement loyalty, Peter silences all hesitation, and declares boldly what must be the conviction of all his comrades. He speaks out the persuasion wrought in his soul by Divine grace. Thou art the Christ ( ὁ Ξριστὸς) ,the Son of the living God.The Christ; the Anointed, the Messiah. The Son of God; of the same substance, one with the Father. Living; as alone "having life in himself," "the living and true God" ( John 5:26; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). The same (or nearly the same) confession was made by Peter in the name of all the apostles at Capernaum ( John 6:69); but the sense of the expression was different, and sprang from very different conviction. It referred rather to the subjective view of Christ's character, as it influenced the believer's inward assurance of the source of eternal life. Here the acknowledgment concerns the nature, office, and Person of our Lord. That there was some special distinction between the two enunciations is evident from Christ's unique commendation of Peter on this occasion compared with his silence on the former. The present confession is indeed a noble one, containing itself a compendium of the Catholic faith concerning the Person and work of Christ. Herein Peter acknowledges Jesus to be the true Messiah, commissioned and sent by God to reveal his will to man, and accomplishing all that the prophets had foretold concerning him; no mere man, not even the most exalted of men (which common opinion held Messiah to be) but the Son of God, of the substance of the Father, begotten from everlasting, God of God, perfect God and perfect man, Son of God and Son of man. Such was Peter's faith. The Church has added nothing to it, though she has amplified and explained and illustrated it in her Creeds; for it comprises belief in Christ's Messiahship, Divinity, Incarnation, personality, and the momentous issues depending thereon. We need not suppose that Peter understood all this or speculated on the question how these several attributes were united in Christ. He was content to accept and acknowledge the truth, waiting patiently for further light. This is the attitude which Christ approves.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek SimonΣίμων(Simōn)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 4613:Simon. Of Hebrew origin; Simon, the name of nine Israelites.PeterΠέτρος(Petros)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 4074:Peter, a Greek name meaning rock. Apparently a primary word; a rock; as a name, Petrus, an apostle.answered,Ἀποκριθεὶς(Apokritheis)Verb - Aorist Participle Passive - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 611:From apo and krino; to conclude for oneself, i.e. to respond; by Hebraism to begin to speak.“YouΣὺ(Sy)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 2nd Person Singular Strong's 4771:You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.areεἶ(ei)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Singular Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.theὁ(ho)Article - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.Christ,Χριστὸς(Christos)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 5547:Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.theὁ(ho)Article - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.SonΥἱὸς(Huios)Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular Strong's 5207:A son, descendent. Apparently a primary word; a 'son', used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship.ofτοῦ(tou)Article - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.theτοῦ(tou)Article - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.livingζῶντος(zōntos)Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 2198:To live, be alive. A primary verb; to live.God.”Θεοῦ(Theou)Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 2316:A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.
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NT Gospels: Matthew 16:16 Simon Peter answered You are the Christ (Matt. Mat Mt) |