Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the towns of Caesarea Philippi; and on the road He asked His disciples, saying to them, “Who do men say that I am?” 28 So they answered, “John the Baptist; but some [say], Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.”

– Mark 8:27-29 (NKJV)

I used to wonder what made Christianity different than different religions. The more I’ve studied, the more I’ve come to see that it all comes down to Jesus. The difference between Christianity and religion is who Jesus is! Religion teaches that you can enter into some sort of bliss by what you have done. Christianity teaches that we can only go to heaven through what Jesus has done. Religion offers you a recipe of good works, attitudes, or characteristics that YOU can do to bring everything into balance. Christianity teaches that it is only through Jesus that we can be forgiven of our sins and come into a right relationship with God. Christianity is personal, Christian doctrine is squarely based on the actions that Jesus took. Who Jesus is and what He has done, in particular his death, burial, and resurrection make all the difference in the world.

Here, Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do people think I am?” There were a lot of opinions flying around. Most were willing to give him prophet status indicating that he spoke for the Lord. But for us to be saved, Jesus has to be more than a mere prophet with some pretty wise or bold saying… Religion is filled with prophets and teachers. The beliefs that we as Christians hold most dear are based on who Jesus is. The signs that he had been showing weren’t there to convince people to accept his teaching alone, they were given so that they might receive Jesus into their hearts (John 1:12).

He is the Messiah, that means the anointed one of God, expected to come and deliver his people his people. In his little knowledge Peter blurts out that Jesus is more than a mere prophet, he is the Messiah! Who Jesus is, really matters!

Who do you say Jesus is? There is a reason we Christians often refer to Christianity as a relationship, not a religion.

Father, We love you and want to grow in knowledge of you and your word. Thank you for the grace to have a personal relationship with you. I am grateful that you welcome us to repent of our sins and trust in you. May we live in the light of your work in our lives. Please guide us in your will and direction. In Jesus Name, Amen.