Jesus asks a simple question this Sunday, but our answer has the power to change everything.
In this week’s All Set for Sunday, Scott and Jeff sit down with Fr. Samuel Rosko to unpack the Twenty first Sunday in Ordinary Time and one of the most important questions Jesus ever asks: “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15).
Peter answers boldly: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). And as Fr. Rosko points out, there’s a lot at stake in that answer. If Jesus really is who He says He is, then He can’t simply be one influence among many. Everything changes.
That leads to an uncomfortable but fruitful question for prayer: Where in my life am I afraid to answer Jesus because I know my answer might require me to change?
The readings give us a few powerful reminders:
God gives real authority. Isaiah speaks of the keys to the house of David (Isaiah 22), while Jesus gives Peter the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 16:19).
Faith shapes identity. Once we answer Jesus’ question, Fr. Rosko suggests turning it around: “Lord, who do You say that I am?” If Christ is Lord, we learn to see ourselves through His eyes as beloved sons and daughters of God.
We don’t need every answer to share our faith. Evangelization doesn’t require a theology degree. Sometimes “I don’t know, but let’s find out” is exactly what keeps a meaningful conversation going.
Christ gives us the Church. Peter receives a mission, and we receive the grace of the Church and the sacraments to keep saying “yes” throughout our lives.
So this Sunday, don’t just hear Jesus’ question as something asked of Peter two thousand years ago. Hear Him asking you.
Who do you say that I am?
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Keys to the Kingdom Adult Socks are practically made for this Gospel, featuring the keys entrusted to St. Peter and reminding us of Christ’s promise to His Church.
