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Matthew 16:16
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Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God--He does not say, "Scribes and Pharisees, rulers and people, are all perplexed; and shall we, unlettered fishermen, presume to decide?" But feeling the light of his Master's glory shining in his soul, he breaks forth--not in a tame, prosaic acknowledgment, "I believe that Thou art," &c.--but in the language of adoration--such as one uses in worship, "THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD!" He first owns Him the promised Messiah (see on Mat 1:16); then he rises higher, echoing the voice from heaven--"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased"; and in the important addition--"Son of the LIVING GOD"--he recognizes the essential and eternal life of God as in this His Son--though doubtless without that distinct perception afterwards vouchsafed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus answered and said unto him,.... Not waiting for any other declaration from them; but taking this to be the sense of them all, he said, blessed art thou Simon Bar Jona, or son of Jona, or Jonas, as in Joh 1:42. His father's name was Jonah, whence he was so called: so we read (i) of R. Bo bar Jonah, and of a Rabbi of this very name (k), , Rabbi Simeon bar Jona; for Simon and Simeon are one, and the same name. Some read it Bar Joanna, the same with John; but the common reading is best; Bar Jona signifies "the son of a dove", and Bar Joanna signifies "the son of one that is gracious". Our Lord, by this appellation, puts Peter in mind of his birth and parentage, but does not pronounce him blessed on that account: no true blessedness comes by natural descent; men are by nature children of wrath, being conceived in sin, and shapen in iniquity: though he was Bar Jona, the son of a dove, and his father might be a good man, and answer to his name, and be of a dove like spirit; yet such a spirit was not conveyed from him to Peter by natural generation: and though he might be, according to the other reading, Bar Joanna, or the son of a gracious man, yet grace was not communicated to him thereby; for he was not "born of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God", Joh 1:13. He was a blessed man, not by his first, but by his second birth; and the reason why our Lord makes mention of his father, is to observe to him, that he was the son of a mean man, and had had, but a mean education, and therefore his blessedness in general was not of nature, but of grace, and this branch of it in particular; the knowledge he had of the Messiah, was not owing to his earthly father, or to the advantage of an education, but to the revelation he had from Christ's Father which is in heaven, as is hereafter affirmed. He is pronounced "blessed", as having a true knowledge of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ, whom to know is life eternal; and all such as he are so, appear to be the favourites of God, to have an interest in Christ and in all the blessings of his grace; are justified by his righteousness, pardoned through his blood, are accepted in him, have communion with Father, Son, and Spirit, and shall live eternally with them hereafter. For flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee: nothing is more frequent to be met with in Jewish writings, than the phrase of "flesh and blood", as designing men in distinction from God: so the first man is said (l) to be "the workmanship of the blessed God, and not the workmanship , "of flesh and blood".'' Again (m), , "flesh and blood", who knows not the times and seasons, &c. but the holy, blessed God, who knows the times and seasons, &c. Instances of this way of speaking are almost without number: accordingly, the sense here is, that this excellent confession of faith, which Peter had delivered, was not revealed unto him, nor taught him by any mere man; he had not it from his immediate parents, nor from any of his relations, or countrymen; nor did he attain to the knowledge of what is expressed in it, by the dint of nature, by the strength of carnal reason, or the force of his own capacity and abilities: but my Father which is in heaven; from whom both the external and internal revelation of such truths come; though not to the exclusion of the Son, by whose revelation the Gospel is taught, and received; nor of the Holy Ghost, who is a Spirit of wisdom and revelation, but in opposition to, and distinction from any mere creature whatever. Neither the Gospel, nor any part of it, is an human device or discovery; it is not after man, nor according to the carnal reason of man; it is above the most exalted and refined reason of men; it has in it what eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man to conceive of: its truths are the deep things of God, which the Spirit of God searches and reveals: and which men, left to the light of nature, and force of reason, must have been for ever ignorant of, and could never have discovered. The Gospel is a revelation, it consists of revealed truths; and which are to be received and believed upon the testimony and credit of the revealer, without entering into carnal reasonings, and disputes about them; and it is the highest reason, and the most noble use of reason, to embrace it at once, as coming from God; for this revelation is from heaven, and from Christ's Father; particularly the deity, sonship, and Messiahship of Christ, are doctrines of pure revelation: that there is a God, is discoverable by the light of nature; and that he is the living God, and gives being, and life, and breath, and all things, to his creatures; but that he has a Son of the same nature with him, and equal to him, who is the Messiah, and the Saviour of lost sinners, this could never have been found out by flesh and blood: no man knows the Son, but the Father, and he to whom he reveals him; he bears witness of him, and declares him to be his Son, in whom he is well pleased; and happy are those who are blessed with the outward revelation of Jesus Christ in the Gospel, but more especially such to whom the Father reveals Christ in them the hope of glory! (i) Juchasin, fol. 85. 1. (k) Ib. fol. 105. 1. (l) Zohar in Gen. fol. 43. 3. (m) R. Simeon in Jarchi in Gen. ii. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:16 Peter’s acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God (3:17) shows that his eyes had been opened by faith (see 11:25-27; 14:33; 27:54).
Matthew 16:16
Peter’s Confession of Christ
15“But what about you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?”16Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
All That Is in the World
By Art Katz7.3K47:52SatanicMAT 6:33MAT 16:16MAT 16:21MAT 16:23GAL 2:11The sermon transcript discusses the importance of living according to God's word rather than being influenced by the world. It emphasizes the need for believers to choose between light and darkness, flesh and spirit, and the kingdom of God or the kingdom of this present world. The speaker highlights the power of the world in captivating people and causing them to focus on materialistic desires such as money, food, and clothing. The sermon calls for a complete separation from the world, not only from sinful things but also from seemingly good things that are part of the world's system, which is described as being opposed to God.
Salvation Is Revelation
By Paris Reidhead5.8K37:19SalvationConviction of SinRevelationMAT 16:16Paris Reidhead emphasizes that salvation is fundamentally a revelation from God, not merely an intellectual acknowledgment of sin or a superficial acceptance of Christ. He recounts experiences in Africa and America that illustrate how many people can recognize their sinfulness yet remain untransformed, highlighting the necessity of true conviction and revelation of God's holiness and justice. Reidhead argues that genuine salvation involves a deep understanding of one's guilt before a holy God, leading to true repentance and faith in Christ. He stresses that the work of the Holy Spirit is essential in awakening individuals to their need for salvation and that this revelation must be communicated effectively to lead to true conversion.
(Revelation - Part 7): The Rainbow Round the Throne
By A.W. Tozer5.5K48:46Book Of RevelationGEN 1:1PRO 25:11ISA 6:1MAT 16:16JHN 7:17REV 4:2REV 4:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of God being wholly other and transcendent, beyond human comprehension. He mentions a review of his book, "The Knowledge of the Holy," where the reviewer disagrees with the idea that when talking about God, one lacks ideas and mental understanding. The speaker also talks about the importance of obedience to fulfill the purpose for which humans were created. He emphasizes that by being willing to do God's will, one can come to know who God is and who they are. The sermon concludes with a reference to the creatures around God's throne in the book of Revelation, highlighting the glory of Jesus Christ and the importance of loving Him deeply.
Freedom Cd - Track 1 (Compilation)
By Compilations4.4K06:44CompilationMAT 1:21MAT 2:13MAT 3:11MAT 4:23MAT 8:26MAT 11:28MAT 16:16In this sermon, the speaker, Tyrone, shares his personal testimony of how he was once an atheist and then became involved in drugs and prostitution. However, he had a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ that set him free from his addictions. He emphasizes that no matter what someone has done or who they are, God's love is available to them. Tyrone also mentions the importance of repentance and surrendering to Jesus as the only way to find true peace and joy. Throughout his message, he references Bible verses such as Matthew 3:11 and Matthew 4:16 to support his points.
(John - Part 30): From That Time on Many of His Disciples Went Back - Part 2
By A.W. Tozer3.7K51:28ExpositionalMAT 7:24MAT 11:27MAT 16:16JHN 3:16JHN 6:66In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the presence of religion in Washington and society as a whole. He emphasizes the simplicity and directness of their approach to preaching and living a Christian life. The preacher acknowledges that some people may be disappointed by the lack of drama or ornateness in their religious practices. He then references a passage from the Gospel of John where many disciples turned away from Jesus, but Peter affirms his belief in Jesus as the Son of God. The preacher concludes by highlighting the importance of a simple fellowship of believers centered around Jesus.
Family of God
By Vance Havner2.8K43:14Family Of GodMAT 16:16MAT 16:23MRK 10:29In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their childhood and the importance of keeping the faith like a child. They talk about their father always hosting the preacher and the deep conversations they had about faith. The speaker also mentions hearing great black preachers and emphasizes the importance of eternal life. They discuss the need for genuine conversions and commitment to the faith, rather than superficial or temporary beliefs. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to reconcile with others and express gratitude to those who have been a blessing in their lives.
What a Jew Does With Jesus
By Art Katz2.6K56:08Intellectualism1KI 19:12MAT 10:20MAT 16:16JHN 3:16JHN 10:27JHN 14:9ACT 19:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his personal journey of disillusionment and despair, leading him to a crisis in his 34th year. As a high school teacher, he realizes that the world cannot be saved through legislation, revolutions, or bloodshed. He then recounts a pivotal moment in Jerusalem where he audibly hears the voice of God, which leads him to write a book called "Ben Israel." The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the still small voice of God amidst the noise and distractions of the world.
Humility - True Greatness
By C.J. Mahaney2.1K56:54HumilityMAT 16:16MAT 20:26MRK 10:32MRK 10:41In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the topic of true greatness. He begins by acknowledging that the pursuit of personal greatness was a strong desire for the disciples. However, he encourages the audience not to be consumed by this desire. The preacher then gives four recommendations for parents to instill the ambition for true greatness in their children, including being an example of true greatness and defining greatness according to scripture. The sermon emphasizes the importance of modeling and teaching biblical principles of greatness.
The Inescapable Question
By Skip Heitzig1.9K45:35QuestionsMAT 6:33MAT 16:16LUK 10:30In this sermon entitled "The Inescapable Question" by Skipp Heitzig, the speaker begins by discussing the importance of biblical literacy and understanding the truth of the Bible. He emphasizes the need for personal discovery and not relying on the voices of others. The sermon then shifts to the message conveyed by a billboard depicting Jesus on the cross with the words "Now it's your move." The speaker highlights the significance of Jesus' claims and presents three options: that he was either a lunatic, a liar, or the Son of God. The sermon concludes with the challenge for individuals to confront the claims of Christ and make a decision about who he truly is.
(John) the Appointment of Christ
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:03:16AppointmentMAT 16:16JHN 4:1JHN 4:4JHN 4:7JHN 4:14JHN 4:23In this sermon on John chapter 4, the preacher focuses on four main points. Firstly, he emphasizes that the meeting between Jesus and the Samaritan woman was not a coincidence, but a divine appointment planned by God. Secondly, he highlights the advancement of Christ, as Jesus intentionally reaches out to this woman and brings her to salvation. Thirdly, he discusses the entitlement of Christ, explaining how Jesus used this encounter to assert his authority and identity as the Messiah. Lastly, he emphasizes the discernment of Christ, as Jesus demonstrates supernatural knowledge and understanding throughout the conversation. The sermon also briefly mentions the previous events in Jesus' journey and the announcement of his Messiahship to the woman.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
(The Church and Satans Wiles) 1 - a Revelation of Christ
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:04:50Spiritual WarfareThe Nature of the ChurchMAT 16:16Zac Poonen emphasizes the ongoing battle against Satan's deception throughout the Bible, illustrating how humility and a genuine pursuit of Christ's revelation protect believers from such deceptions. He highlights that true knowledge of Christ comes not from human intellect but through divine revelation, as seen in Peter's confession of Jesus as the Messiah. Poonen warns against the dangers of seeking one's own interests, which he identifies as the root of sin, and stresses the importance of building a church centered on Christ rather than on human ambition or material gain. He encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of God’s character, which is rooted in love and kindness, rather than fear and self-interest. Ultimately, Poonen calls for a church that reflects the love of Christ, where members do not seek their own but rather serve one another in humility.
(Ephesians) the Wiles of the Devil
By Brian Brodersen1.1K59:28MAT 16:16EPH 6:10EPH 6:162TI 2:3In this sermon, the speaker begins by thanking God for being the good shepherd and for watching over us. He encourages the listeners to trust in God and not be discouraged by Satan's attempts to hinder their faith. The speaker then shares about a recent event where various musical groups from around the world came together to share their music and testimonies. The event was attended by a thousand people, most of whom were not Christians, providing an opportunity to share the gospel. The speaker also references John Bunyan, a Puritan who faced persecution and imprisonment for his faith, and highlights the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of spiritual warfare.
God's Standard of Evaluation
By Major Ian Thomas1.1K1:12:15EvaluationPRO 30:6MAT 16:16JHN 14:81CO 15:20HEB 10:72PE 1:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding true worth in God rather than in artificial standards and religious performances. He highlights the revelation that a person's worth is determined by their relationship with God and their reflection of His divine intent. The preacher emphasizes that the truth is not a creed or theology, but a person - Jesus Christ. He encourages the audience to truly know and reflect Christ, understanding that they were created to be mirrors of His image.
1 John 2:22
By John Gill0Denial of ChristTruth of ChristMAT 16:16JHN 14:6ACT 4:12HEB 1:11JN 2:22John Gill emphasizes the critical importance of acknowledging Jesus as the Christ, the true Messiah foretold by the prophets. He argues that denying Jesus' messianic identity is the greatest lie, as it contradicts the undeniable truth supported by Jesus' own declarations, the testimonies of the apostles, and divine affirmations. Gill warns that those who reject Jesus in any of his roles—prophet, king, or priest—are not only liars but also antichrists, opposing the very essence of the Christian faith. He highlights that even the devil recognizes Jesus as the Christ, making those who deny Him the worst of deceivers. The sermon serves as a strong reminder of the necessity to uphold the truth of Christ's identity and the implications of denying it.
"Christ Jesus, Our Hope"
By H.J. Vine0MAT 16:16ACT 4:12EPH 5:32PHP 2:102TI 2:102PE 1:16REV 22:7H.J. Vine preaches about the importance of sticking to the Scriptures and the themes revealed by the Spirit of God, focusing on the near return of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the significance of understanding and sharing the prophetic Scriptures, highlighting the glory of Christ's relationship with the Father and the Church. Vine draws parallels from Genesis to Revelation, showcasing how Christ and the Church are beautifully intertwined in God's eternal plan, culminating in the Bride, the Lamb's wife, sharing in His supremacy and glory.
Lord and God
By Selwyn Hughes0DEU 6:4MAT 16:16JHN 14:9JHN 20:28PHP 2:6COL 2:9HEB 1:3REV 5:12Selwyn Hughes delves into the profound moment when Thomas declared 'My Lord and my God!' upon seeing Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the disciples' struggle to fully comprehend the divinity of Christ. Despite their Jewish upbringing and belief in one God, the disciples found it challenging to grasp the concept of Jesus being both man and God. Thomas, often labeled as a doubter, boldly acknowledged the deity of Jesus, affirming Him as Lord and God. Hughes emphasizes that Jesus accepted worship as God Himself, reinforcing the truth of His divine nature and the importance of recognizing and honoring Him as such.
Where Should I Go to Church?
By Brent Barnett0MAT 16:16MAT 18:15MAT 28:20MRK 11:17JHN 13:34ACT 20:71CO 16:2EPH 4:101TI 3:15HEB 10:23Brent Barnett emphasizes the importance of believers gathering together as the church, a place for worship, confession of faith, and mutual encouragement. The local church is a community of imperfect individuals striving to grow in Christlikeness, supporting one another in love and good deeds. Sound doctrine is crucial in choosing a church, ensuring it aligns with the truth of God's Word and teaches the full counsel of God. Worship should be done in spirit and truth, with a right heart attitude and a yielding to the Holy Spirit's work in our lives.
The Faith of the Church Under the Old Testament in and Concerning the Person of Christ.
By John Owen0Faith in ChristThe Person of ChristGEN 3:15GEN 12:3GEN 15:6JOB 19:25ISA 59:20MAT 16:16GAL 4:4HEB 3:5HEB 10:11PE 1:11John Owen emphasizes the faith of the Old Testament church in the person of Christ, asserting that their belief was foundational for their salvation and deliverance. He explains that while they had limited understanding of Christ's redemptive work, their faith was centered on His divine person, as revealed through promises and types in Scripture. Owen highlights that this faith was essential for obedience and that over time, the church's understanding became corrupted, leading to a reliance on their own righteousness rather than on Christ. He warns that just as the early church faced ruin by losing sight of true faith, modern churches risk the same fate by allowing their beliefs to degenerate into lifeless opinions. Ultimately, Owen calls for a return to a vibrant, faith-filled relationship with Christ as the Savior.
A Representation of Christ in Every Place
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Church as the Body of ChristCorporate Expression of FaithMAT 16:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the Church is a representation of Christ in every place, highlighting the importance of local assemblies as the corporate expression of Christ. He explains that while individual salvation is vital, it must be understood within the context of the Church as the Body of Christ, where believers collectively manifest His presence. Sparks warns against individualism and the prevailing church system that limits spiritual growth, urging believers to recognize the Church as the meeting place between God and man. He stresses that the local expression of the Church is essential for embodying God's thoughts and exercising His authority in the world. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper commitment to being part of a living, functioning body of believers to fulfill God's purpose.
The Life of Christ, for Family Devotions - May
By F. L. Mortimer0MAT 16:16MAT 16:18ACT 4:11Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the importance of recognizing Jesus as the Son of God, emphasizing the blessing of faith given by God. The disciples, including Peter, are reminded that true belief in Jesus as the Christ is the foundation of the church, and that the powers of darkness will never prevail against it. Peter's confession of faith in Jesus as the Son of God is commended, and he is acknowledged as a rock on which Christ will build his church.
Luke 9:19
By Chuck Smith0Acceptance of JesusIdentity of ChristISA 53:3MAT 16:16LUK 9:20JHN 3:16JHN 11:25JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 10:9PHP 2:91JN 5:12Chuck Smith explores the question 'Who am I?' in relation to Jesus, emphasizing the various opinions people have about Him, from being a prophet to a great teacher, while ultimately asserting that He is the Son of God. He discusses the implications of acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah, highlighting the promises associated with His identity and the significance of personal acceptance of Him as King. Smith stresses that one's belief in Jesus directly impacts their spiritual life and eternal destiny, urging listeners to recognize the necessity of surrendering to Him as their Lord.
Jesus Said He Was God
By A.W. Tozer0Defense of FaithDeity Of ChristMAT 16:16JHN 1:1JHN 5:18JHN 8:58JHN 10:30JHN 14:9PHP 2:6COL 2:9HEB 1:3REV 1:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ, asserting that through His teachings and bold declarations, He clearly identified Himself as God, despite critics who claim otherwise. Tozer highlights that Jesus frequently referred to Himself as the 'Son of Man,' yet He also proclaimed His equality with the Father and His divine origin. This fundamental truth of Christ's deity unites Bible-believing Christians, regardless of differing views on other theological matters. Tozer calls for a careful and vigorous defense of this doctrine, affirming that Jesus is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being.
What Must Men Believe to Be Saved?
By Benjamin Franklin0MAT 16:16MRK 16:16JHN 3:36ACT 8:37ACT 17:30ROM 5:11CO 15:122CO 6:2HEB 11:62PE 1:16Benjamin Franklin preaches about the importance of believing in Jesus Christ for salvation, emphasizing that without faith in Christ, one cannot please God or be justified. He highlights that the central belief required for salvation is that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that this belief is the foundation of Christianity. Franklin urges listeners to focus on Christ as the central point of their faith, rather than getting caught up in theological debates or human doctrines. He stresses the need for all people to repent, believe in the resurrection of Jesus, and confess Him as Lord in order to be saved.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God--He does not say, "Scribes and Pharisees, rulers and people, are all perplexed; and shall we, unlettered fishermen, presume to decide?" But feeling the light of his Master's glory shining in his soul, he breaks forth--not in a tame, prosaic acknowledgment, "I believe that Thou art," &c.--but in the language of adoration--such as one uses in worship, "THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD!" He first owns Him the promised Messiah (see on Mat 1:16); then he rises higher, echoing the voice from heaven--"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased"; and in the important addition--"Son of the LIVING GOD"--he recognizes the essential and eternal life of God as in this His Son--though doubtless without that distinct perception afterwards vouchsafed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And Jesus answered and said unto him,.... Not waiting for any other declaration from them; but taking this to be the sense of them all, he said, blessed art thou Simon Bar Jona, or son of Jona, or Jonas, as in Joh 1:42. His father's name was Jonah, whence he was so called: so we read (i) of R. Bo bar Jonah, and of a Rabbi of this very name (k), , Rabbi Simeon bar Jona; for Simon and Simeon are one, and the same name. Some read it Bar Joanna, the same with John; but the common reading is best; Bar Jona signifies "the son of a dove", and Bar Joanna signifies "the son of one that is gracious". Our Lord, by this appellation, puts Peter in mind of his birth and parentage, but does not pronounce him blessed on that account: no true blessedness comes by natural descent; men are by nature children of wrath, being conceived in sin, and shapen in iniquity: though he was Bar Jona, the son of a dove, and his father might be a good man, and answer to his name, and be of a dove like spirit; yet such a spirit was not conveyed from him to Peter by natural generation: and though he might be, according to the other reading, Bar Joanna, or the son of a gracious man, yet grace was not communicated to him thereby; for he was not "born of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God", Joh 1:13. He was a blessed man, not by his first, but by his second birth; and the reason why our Lord makes mention of his father, is to observe to him, that he was the son of a mean man, and had had, but a mean education, and therefore his blessedness in general was not of nature, but of grace, and this branch of it in particular; the knowledge he had of the Messiah, was not owing to his earthly father, or to the advantage of an education, but to the revelation he had from Christ's Father which is in heaven, as is hereafter affirmed. He is pronounced "blessed", as having a true knowledge of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ, whom to know is life eternal; and all such as he are so, appear to be the favourites of God, to have an interest in Christ and in all the blessings of his grace; are justified by his righteousness, pardoned through his blood, are accepted in him, have communion with Father, Son, and Spirit, and shall live eternally with them hereafter. For flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee: nothing is more frequent to be met with in Jewish writings, than the phrase of "flesh and blood", as designing men in distinction from God: so the first man is said (l) to be "the workmanship of the blessed God, and not the workmanship , "of flesh and blood".'' Again (m), , "flesh and blood", who knows not the times and seasons, &c. but the holy, blessed God, who knows the times and seasons, &c. Instances of this way of speaking are almost without number: accordingly, the sense here is, that this excellent confession of faith, which Peter had delivered, was not revealed unto him, nor taught him by any mere man; he had not it from his immediate parents, nor from any of his relations, or countrymen; nor did he attain to the knowledge of what is expressed in it, by the dint of nature, by the strength of carnal reason, or the force of his own capacity and abilities: but my Father which is in heaven; from whom both the external and internal revelation of such truths come; though not to the exclusion of the Son, by whose revelation the Gospel is taught, and received; nor of the Holy Ghost, who is a Spirit of wisdom and revelation, but in opposition to, and distinction from any mere creature whatever. Neither the Gospel, nor any part of it, is an human device or discovery; it is not after man, nor according to the carnal reason of man; it is above the most exalted and refined reason of men; it has in it what eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man to conceive of: its truths are the deep things of God, which the Spirit of God searches and reveals: and which men, left to the light of nature, and force of reason, must have been for ever ignorant of, and could never have discovered. The Gospel is a revelation, it consists of revealed truths; and which are to be received and believed upon the testimony and credit of the revealer, without entering into carnal reasonings, and disputes about them; and it is the highest reason, and the most noble use of reason, to embrace it at once, as coming from God; for this revelation is from heaven, and from Christ's Father; particularly the deity, sonship, and Messiahship of Christ, are doctrines of pure revelation: that there is a God, is discoverable by the light of nature; and that he is the living God, and gives being, and life, and breath, and all things, to his creatures; but that he has a Son of the same nature with him, and equal to him, who is the Messiah, and the Saviour of lost sinners, this could never have been found out by flesh and blood: no man knows the Son, but the Father, and he to whom he reveals him; he bears witness of him, and declares him to be his Son, in whom he is well pleased; and happy are those who are blessed with the outward revelation of Jesus Christ in the Gospel, but more especially such to whom the Father reveals Christ in them the hope of glory! (i) Juchasin, fol. 85. 1. (k) Ib. fol. 105. 1. (l) Zohar in Gen. fol. 43. 3. (m) R. Simeon in Jarchi in Gen. ii. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
16:16 Peter’s acknowledgment of Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God (3:17) shows that his eyes had been opened by faith (see 11:25-27; 14:33; 27:54).