Matthew 16:15
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Original Language Analysis
λέγετε
He saith
G3004
λέγετε
He saith
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
αὐτοῖς
unto them
G846
αὐτοῖς
unto them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
2 of 8
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
τίνα
whom
G5101
τίνα
whom
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
5 of 8
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
Cross References
Luke 9:20He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.Matthew 13:11He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.Mark 8:29And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.
Historical Context
After hearing various popular opinions, Jesus requires His disciples to declare their own conviction. In first-century Judaism, messianic expectations ran high but were politically focused. Jesus' question cuts through speculation to demand personal verdict. The disciples had traveled with Jesus, seen miracles, heard teachings—now they must confess who He is.
Questions for Reflection
- Can you articulate your personal faith in Christ beyond what you've been taught?
- How has your understanding of Jesus deepened through personal encounter?
- What difference does personally confessing Christ make versus knowing about Him?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus personalizes the question: 'But whom say ye that I am?' The shift from 'men' to 'ye' demands personal commitment, not merely reporting others' opinions. Salvation requires personal faith in Christ, not secondhand religion. Reformed theology emphasizes that each person must individually trust Christ—there's no salvation by proxy or tradition. This question confronts every generation: intellectual acknowledgment of Christ's existence differs radically from personal faith in His lordship and deity.