Matthew 16: The Source Of Wisdom & Knowledge

Jesus 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.”

Matthew 16:17 (NIV)

God placed a big news scoop in Peter's head.* With wisdom coming only from above, with knowledge of Earth's most wonderful Truth:

Jesus is not just another prophet or the reemergence of a prophet. He is Israel's long-awaited Christ!

'The Witness, the Leader, the Commander; the Redeemer, the Sun of Righteousness; the Captain of the Host of the Lord and the Messenger of the Covenant...' **

But remember: Jesus made a big point when He told Peter to credit the Source. This news didn't come from Peter's brilliance as an investigative reporter!

The revelation of Jesus as Christ came from Earth's original Author: God!

Actors, models, and talent for Christ:

Because the Lord has richly gifted you with talents that attract eyes, ears, and hearts, as well as wisdom, knowledge, and insight– expect to face a major temptation:

  • The thought that YOU are your talent’s owner,

  • That you “happened” to be given great gifts,

  • And “fame” is a conclusion you deserve.

Recall the Words above said to Peter, reminding him of every gifting's Source. Also, a confirmation said through James:

'Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, Who does not change like shifting shadows' (James 1:17).

Therein, redirect all credit to God. He trusts you to multiply HIS talents. None of us “deserves” God’s gracious blessings.

Matthew 16: The Source Of Wisdom & Knowledge (Part 12)

* Short, Scripture-rich article: Learning How To Seek After The Knowledge of God

** (I love this list!): Names, Titles, and Characters of Jesus Christ

NOTE: God is my Ghostwriter. If what I write is good, it’s from God! We’re ALL called to be actors (action stars) for Jesus. We’re ALL called to models of Jesus, and we ALL have gifts, talents, and callings from God–  to multiply them in the world for His glory.

P.S. NO DEVOTION, PREACHER, or SERMON… can begin to replace personal time in the Bible. I wholeheartedly and clear-headedly recommend READING THE BIBLE DAILY.

WARNING: Don’t focus on favorite verses, because out of context, they’re often misinterpreted. I plead with you to READ AT LEAST 1 BIBLE CHAPTER DAILY. How long does it take? An average of 5 to 10 minutes!

Carey Arban