This short conversation with Jesus’ tired followers is a pivotal moment. For Peter to speak out with such assurance is surely a divine revelation, but he probably wasn’t the only one thinking it. Peter’s boldness is richly rewarded, not only does he get a new name, he is also given the keys to the kingdom. This passage lends itself well to being acted out, and this retelling would work as a narrated script.
This retold version of the Bible passage is supplied for inspiration, feel free to omit or embellish to give it your personal voice.
Main Passage : Matthew 16
It had been a long day. Jesus and his disciples had crossed the lake but forgotten to bring any food with them, and now they had to walk to the town to get something to eat. Jesus had used the time to teach them. Everyone was getting tired and hungry and struggling to understand the things Jesus was teaching them.
Jesus could see they needed a break, so he paused walking and turned round so he could see everyone. “I have a question for you” said Jesus and those chatting among themselves went quiet.
“What do people say about the Son of Man?” that’s what Jesus called himself.
“Some people say you are John the Baptist” – said one voice,
Another voice came in “some say you are Elijah or Jeremiah”
“or a new prophet” shouted someone further back
“Really. Interesting.” said Jesus, a small smile playing on his lips.
“And what about you? Who do you say I am? ”
The disciples went quiet. They all knew who they wanted Jesus to be. They all knew his teaching, his wisdom, his miracles. They all wanted to dream that he was the long-awaited Messiah, but did they believe he really was and would anyone be brave enough to say it? The silence dragged as they looked at each other.
It was Simon who spoke. Simon always rushed into things.
“You are the messiah,” he said into the stillness “You are the son of God”
Other men gasped in shock, but Jesus smiled the biggest smile of the day. Jesus grabbed Simon and hugged him.
“Simon, You didn’t discover this on your own. It was shown to you by my Father in heaven.” said Jesus loudly. “I’m going to give you a new name ‘Peter’, which means ‘rock.’”
Jesus put his hand on Simon-Peter’s shoulders and looked around at the followers.
“On this rock I will build my church, and death itself will not have any power over it.” he said loudly
“Peter, I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven”
Peter looked rather impressed with himself, but Jesus’ face had gone serious
“Tell no one” Jesus warned loudly.
Today’s heroes is Simon-Peter because he shows us the gift of Foundation
