Thoughts for the Day

And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?

And they answered, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets.

And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.

And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.

(Lectionary, King James Version)

Thoughts

Like many I was brought up with the King James' Bible, and love much of its poetry, especially at times like Christmas. Today's reading comes from this translation, but I have no desire to use it every day. Indeed, I use different bibles for different reasons. I might use the 'Good News' when working with new adult Christians; the 'International Children's Bible' with youngsters, as this was translated by Greek and Hebrew scholars for children from original texts, and is not just a paraphrase; the Jerusalem Bible for some serious study; and of course the King James' bible when I want some nostalgia.

The King James' bible published in 1611 was translated by a committee of 47 scholars and clergymen over the course of many years, and got its name because King James who was the head of the Church of England, had to approve the bible. However, the 16th/17th century language can sometimes cause problems. For instance, many Christians think the word 'Christ' as in 'Jesus Christ' is Jesus' surname. More modern translations translate this Greek word as 'Messiah' that is an anointed King.

But what kind of Messiah does Peter think Jesus is? One like King David - a warrior, who would bring the twelve tribes of Israel back together? Or perhaps some heavenly being described in the Book of Daniel as the "Son of Man"? Does Peter think, like many at the time, that the Messiah will be a man of power who will destroy the hated Romans along with all gentiles? He surely has no idea that Jesus has come as one who will suffer for his people.

Lord Jesus,
You are the 'Christ',
the 'Messiah',
who came to save our world
from sin and degradation,
and to restore us to full humanity
as sons and daughters of God.
We thank You that Peter
recognised You as the Christ,
even though he may not have
fully understood.
Amen.