In Matthew 16, Jesus poses a simple but life-altering question to His disciples: “Who do you say I am?” In this sermon, Pastor Stacey Crawford explores the personal and spiritual impact of that question. Drawing from both Scripture and her own life experiences, she invites us to consider not just what we know about Jesus, but how we live in response to that knowledge. This message is a call to deep reflection and full surrender.
The Contrast Between Public Opinion and Personal Revelation
Jesus asks the disciples: “Who do people say I am?”
Jesus begins with a general question, what are people saying about Me? The disciples give varied answers: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or another prophet. These responses show a surface-level understanding of Jesus, formed by observation but not relationship.
Peter’s confession: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God”
Then Jesus asks a more pointed question: “Who do you say I am?” Peter replies with bold clarity: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus affirms this answer, revealing it was a divine revelation from God the Father.
Understanding the difference between knowledge and relationship
This moment highlights the gap between public perception and personal relationship. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as knowing Him. The crowd had opinions, but Peter had revelation, because he had walked closely with Jesus.
What It Means to Call Jesus Lord and Savior
Lordship: Surrendering control and following God’s authority
Declaring Jesus as Lord means giving Him complete control of our lives. It’s not partial, and it’s not convenient, it’s a full surrender of our plans, priorities, and preferences.
Savior: Trusting Jesus’ sacrifice and receiving salvation
As Savior, Jesus rescues us from sin and death. His sacrifice on the cross offers us forgiveness and eternal life. But salvation isn’t just a gift; it’s a starting point for transformation.
You can’t separate Lord from Savior, it’s both
Jesus must be both Lord and Savior. Accepting Him as Savior without submitting to Him as Lord is incomplete. Full discipleship means embracing both titles, and living accordingly.
The Cost of Following Jesus
Jesus’ call to deny ourselves and take up our cross
Jesus taught that anyone who wants to follow Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow. This isn’t a metaphor for discomfort, it’s a call to lay down our rights and follow Him no matter the cost.
Daily surrender in everyday decisions
Pastor Stacey shared how daily choices, from parenting to finances, are opportunities to surrender to God. True discipleship touches every area of life.
Obedience through difficulty for a greater purpose
God may lead us into hard places, not to harm us, but to refine us and work through us. Difficulty often precedes growth, and trust in God's plan brings peace in the process.
Trusting God in the Midst of Uncertainty
Stacey’s testimony of parenting decisions and God’s leading
Through a powerful personal story, Pastor Stacey described God’s leading to send her daughter to public school, a decision she initially resisted. Yet God confirmed the call as part of a bigger purpose.
God’s sovereignty, timing, and vision for our future
Even in seasons of confusion, God’s plan is perfect. He sees what we don’t, orchestrating timing and relationships for His purposes.
How God uses confusion for clarity and impact
God uses our uncertainty to teach us trust. What may seem like chaos now can later be seen as preparation for something greater.
Living a Life of Full Surrender
Self-reflection questions for believers
Ask yourself:
- Who is Jesus to me?
- Does my life reflect that declaration?
Practical next steps for new and seasoned believers
Whether you’re just starting your faith journey or have walked with Jesus for years:
- Keep attending church
- Join a connect group this fall
- Volunteer and serve like Jesus
- Spend time in the Bible and prayer
An invitation to follow Jesus more deeply
This sermon isn’t just a teaching, it’s an invitation. Jesus asks us to follow Him fully, to surrender everything, and to trust that He is worth it.
It’s Worth It?
Choosing to follow Jesus, really follow Him. will cost us something. But it leads to everything: peace, purpose, and the promise of eternity. As Pastor Stacey reminded us, living fully surrendered today prepares us for the joy of seeing Jesus face to face. May we all one day hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Take your seat at The Tree Church.
If you are looking for a church in Lancaster or a church in Logan, we would love to welcome you to The Tree Church. We are one church meeting at two campuses in Ohio. Join us any Sunday at 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM.
We can't wait to meet you this Sunday!