Who Do You Say I Am?

Summary

The Jesus Podcast – "Who Do You Say I Am?" (July 29, 2026)

Episode Overview

In this powerfully produced episode, host Ethan from Pray.com and the cast take listeners on an immersive journey through a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus, focusing on the question he poses to his disciples: "Who do you say that I am?" Drawing from Matthew 16:13-20, the episode weaves dramatic retellings, character dialogues, and theological reflection to explore the identity of Jesus, the challenges of faith, and the transformational nature of recognizing Christ as Messiah. The narrative invites each listener to consider their own answer to Jesus' timeless question, using evocative storytelling and practical application.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. The Confrontation with the Pharisees and Sadducees

• [02:07–06:09]

  • The episode opens with Jesus facing off against religious leaders demanding a miraculous sign as proof of his divine authority.
    • The Pharisees and Sadducees, despite longstanding divisions, unite to challenge Jesus.
    • Jesus rebuffs their request by referencing their ability to "read the sky" but inability to interpret "the signs of the times."
  • The “sign of Jonah” is mentioned as the only sign that will be given, foreshadowing Jesus' death and resurrection.

  "A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign. ... No sign will be given to you except the sign of Jonah." – Jesus (04:53)

2. The Disciples’ Misunderstandings and Jesus' Warnings

• [08:11–12:18]

  • During a boat trip, Jesus warns the disciples: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
  • The disciples misunderstand, thinking he refers to actual bread, prompting Jesus to remind them of past miracles—the feeding of the 5,000 and 4,000.
  • Jesus clarifies that he speaks of the corrupting influence of the religious leaders’ teachings.

  "You of little faith always caught on earthly worries. ... How is it you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread?" – Jesus (10:50)

3. The Heart of the Episode: Jesus’ Ultimate Question

• [13:54–18:33]

  • At Caesarea Philippi, a place of diverse idols and religious symbols, Jesus asks his disciples:
    • “Who do people say that I am?” They respond with various public opinions (John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets).
    • He presses further: “But what about you? Who do you say that I am?”
  • Simon Peter dramatically responds:
    • “You are the Messiah, the son of the living God.” (16:25)

  "But what about you? Who do you say that I am?" – Jesus (15:35)

  "You are Messiah, the son of the living God." – Peter (16:25)

4. Jesus Affirms and Commissions Peter

• [16:37–18:33]

  • Jesus blesses Peter, stating his revelation is from God, not from human reasoning.
  • He gives Simon the new name "Peter" (meaning "rock") and declares:
    • “On this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
    • Jesus symbolically gives Peter the "keys of the kingdom."

  "Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah. ... This was revealed to you by my Father in heaven." – Jesus (16:37)

  "No longer shall you be called Simon. But you are Peter. ... on this rock I will build my church." – Jesus (17:04, 17:18)

  • Jesus instructs the disciples to keep his identity confidential for now, hinting at the need for God's timing.

5. Theological Reflection and Personal Application (Host Commentary)

• [18:57–End]

  • Host Ethan contextualizes the story, emphasizing the significance of Caesarea Philippi as a location surrounded by idols.
  • Ethan highlights that popular views about Jesus—even those that are flattering—often miss the mark compared to the truth Peter proclaims.
  • The core challenge: Jesus' identity demands a personal response, not just recitation of cultural or historical opinions.
  • Peter's confession is framed as a model of faith: acknowledging Jesus not only as Messiah, but also as the Son of God—divine, not merely human.
  • True recognition of Jesus comes as divine revelation, not personal intellect alone.
  • Ethan calls listeners to consider if they treat Jesus as Lord of their life or merely as another component of their spiritual routine.

  "We can't just see him as a good teacher or a moral leader. We must see him as Lord." – Ethan (20:42)

  "Who do we say that Jesus is? ... Or have we allowed our familiarity with him to dull our sense of his greatness?" – Ethan (22:00)

  • Listeners are encouraged to pray for renewed awe of Jesus and to live in response to the truth of Peter’s confession.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [04:53] Jesus: "A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign. ... No sign will be given to you except the sign of Jonah."
• [10:50] Jesus: "You of little faith always caught on earthly worries. Why are you talking amongst yourselves about having no bread?"
• [15:35] Jesus: "But what about you? Who do you say that I am?"
• [16:25] Peter: "You are Messiah, the son of the living God."
• [16:37] Jesus: "Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah. But this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood ... This was revealed to you by my Father in heaven."
• [17:18] Jesus: "And it is on this rock I will build my church. And the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven."
• [18:57] Ethan (host): "If Jesus is who he says he is ... then everything he says and does must be a paramount priority in our lives."

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• 02:07: Pharisees and Sadducees challenge Jesus for a sign.
• 03:52: Jesus uses weather and "signs of the times" analogy.
• 04:53: Jesus references the sign of Jonah.
• 08:11: Disciples on the boat; Jesus warns about "yeast."
• 10:50: Jesus rebukes disciples' lack of understanding.
• 13:54: Disciples reflect on Jesus' warning around the fire; Jesus shifts conversation to identity.
• 15:35: Jesus directly asks, "Who do you say that I am?"
• 16:25: Peter's declaration.
• 16:37: Jesus blesses and renames Peter.
• 17:18: Jesus commissions Peter with "the keys of the kingdom."
• 18:57: Host Ethan gives theological commentary and modern-day reflection.
• 21:00: Ethan’s challenge to listeners for personal reflection.

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Episode Tone and Voice

• The narrative tone is vivid, dramatic, and immersive, using descriptive language and sound design to bring the Gospel story to life.
• Dialogue is tender, sometimes humorous, and true to character, making ancient events and personalities accessible to modern listeners.
• Host reflection is clear, passionate, warm, and rooted in practical theology, inviting listeners to join in the journey rather than simply observe it.

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Conclusion

"Who Do You Say I Am?" sets a high watermark for faith-based storytelling, blending Gospel drama and contemporary relevance. Through powerful dialogue and accessible teaching, the episode challenges every listener to examine their own understanding of Jesus, echoing the profound question—“Who do you say that I am?”—and inviting a renewed response of faith, awe, and commitment.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Simon Peter answered, you are the Christ, the son of the living God. Matthew 16:16 Dear Lord Jesus, we come before you with hearts full of gratitude, proclaiming that you are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. We thank you for being our hero, our Lord and Savior of our souls. In your name we find hope, redemption and eternal life. We acknowledge our deep need for you in every aspect of our lives. Without you we are lost, but with you we have direction, purpose and peace. Help us to constantly seek a deeper understanding of who you are, allowing this knowledge to transform us from the inside out. Change our hearts, Lord, to align with your will and to reflect your love and grace. Grant us the strength to live out our faith boldly, always remembering your sacrifice and the power of your resurrection. Empower us to be a force for good in this world, spreading truth and love to all those we encounter. May our lives be a testament to your glory and goodness. In your holy name we pray. Amen. Thank you for praying with me today. You're listening to the Jesus Podcast. Remain here for a tender and heartwarming story inspired by the Gospels. If you enjoyed this podcast, be sure to follow, leave a review and share it with a friend.

[Pharisee]

If you are indeed from God, then show us a sign.

[Narrator]

The Pharisee's voice hissed through clenched teeth. His frustration was clearly boiling just below the surface of his calm demeanor. He and several other Pharisees had joined forces with some of the Sadducees. Their overarching cause of stopping Jesus was worth overlooking their long standing differences. The request for a sign was nothing more than a test. Not actually expecting Jesus to perform any great works. They had grown increasingly angry with his growing popularity and willingness to break centuries of tradition they and their forefathers had created, and they had every intention of trapping him in his ways.

[Pharisee]

Surely you must understand why this is necessary for the protection of Israel. You claim that your power is of heaven. Then show it to us plainly. Perform a sign from heaven.

[Narrator]

The Pharisees goaded Jesus. Jesus had performed many signs, wonders and miracles, but the Pharisees ignored them, considering them to be earthly signs. They wanted more, an undeniable display of God's power. But Jesus refused to play their games. Jesus kept his eyes locked on the religious leader and tilted his head back toward the disciples who stood a few paces behind him.

[Jesus]

Simon, tell me, how did you anticipate the weather when you were out fishing?

[Disciple]

The most common method was to look to the sky. The colors were good indicators of the weather that would follow.

[Jesus]

Very good.

[Narrator]

Jesus tilted his head back, ensuring The Pharisees and Sadducees knew his next words were directed at them.

[Jesus]

You people have enough faith in the sky to predict the weather. When evening comes, you will say, it will be fair weather, for the sky is red. And again morning will come, and you will look up and say, today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast. I'm sure even you were once taught how to judge the appearance of the sky. But you, who have devoted your entire lives to reading the Scriptures, cannot interpret the signs of the times.

[Narrator]

Jesus leaned in and dropped his voice to a whisper, forcing his adversaries to listen intently to his words.

[Jesus]

A wicked and adulterous generation looks for a sign. I have said it before and I will say it again. No sign will be given to you except the sign of Jonah. For just as Jonah was three days and nights in the belly of a fish, so too will the Son of Man be three days and nights in the belly of the earth. And yet you will still not believe, even though one greater than Jonah is here.

[Narrator]

The Pharisees and Sadducees stood stunned in disbelief.

[Pharisee]

You dare call us wicked and adulterous simply because we ask for a sign? If you cannot perform such a sign, just say so.

[Jesus]

You refuse to see the signs already given to you by my Father, and for that reason no sign will be given to you today.

[Narrator]

Jesus words fanned the anger of the religious men, but he remained steady, never allowing himself to lose control.

[Jesus]

It appears we're at an impasse, though I can't say it's my fault as you think. If you have no more questions or a more reasonable request, now seems as good time as any to bid you farewell.

[Narrator]

In one swift motion, Jesus beckoned for the disciples, turned and left for the sea.

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[Host (Ethan)]

this question is the most important question you'll ever answer in your life. That question is who is Jesus? This is the Jesus Podcast. I'm Ethan with Pray.com today we continue through our miniseries on Jesus, disrupting the status quo and showing us a new way to live. This series showcases Jesus teachings and passion, and we will learn about God's heart for people and for his kingdom. Today we're diving into a pivotal moment in Jesus ministry, a moment where he asks his disciples a question that echoes throughout the ages. Who do you say that I am? This question, found in our story inspired By Matthew Chapter 16, verses 13 through 20, isn't just a question for his disciples. It's a question for each of us.

[Narrator]

The boat rocked unhurriedly through the vibrant blue waters. At certain angles, the sun's rays revealed schools of fish swimming just below the surface. Wisps of white clouds laced the skies, forming shapes that reflected on the crystalline waters below. James and Andrew leaned over the edge with longing stares.

[Jesus]

I can't say often I miss fishing, but there are days when I would love to be back out on the sea again.

[Disciple]

After the last catch you had, I can't blame you. I've never seen anything like that. My arms felt like they'd fall off from pulling the nets, though I suppose the only reason that happened was so that you could be here now.

[Narrator]

John and Simon sat next to their brothers. Their fishing days were long behind them, but Jesus had made good on his promise to make them fishers of men.

[Jesus]

Plus, following Jesus surely has to be more interesting than anything else we could be doing.

[Narrator]

For Matthew, life outside of the tax collecting booth brought a world he never knew existed or even cared to experience before meeting Jesus.

[Jesus]

I've never seen anyone talk to a Pharisee that way. I've seen some heated arguments in my day, but whatever Jesus is doing sure seems to make them angry.

[Disciple (possibly Andrew or James)]

It sure does. And my guess is it won't be long before we have to deal with more of them. Look, we're getting close to the shore. Hopefully we stop to eat before another day of walking.

[Narrator]

Jesus was listening intently to their conversations from the back of the boat and decided now was a good time to share a word of warning with the disciples.

[Jesus]

Before we get to land, I want all of you to listen to me closely. Be careful. We have much to do, and I need each one one of you to be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

[Narrator]

The disciples glanced around at one another.

[Disciple (possibly Andrew or James)]

Speaking of yeast did any of you pack bread?

[Disciple]

You're the one who was just complaining about being hungry. And Jesus must know we didn't bring any bread with us. You better hope we can find some when we get to the next town. And apparently it can't have yeast from the Pharisees or Sadducees, whatever that means.

[Disciple (possibly Andrew or James)]

Why is it up to me? And how am I possibly supposed to know where the bakers get bailised from?

[Narrator]

Jesus raised his voice over the steady blow of the wind and crashing waves of the waters.

[Jesus]

You of little faith always caught on earthly worries. Why are you talking amongst yourselves about having no bread? We've spent so much time together and yet you still don't understand.

[Narrator]

The disciples were embarrassed and averted their eyes from one another. Like little children being reprimanded, they waited for some form of rebuke.

[Jesus]

Have you already forgotten about the five loaves that fed 5,000? How many baskets did you gather after all had eaten their fill? And as though that weren't enough, remember the seven loaves for the 4,000? And how many baskets you gathered? Then how is it you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread? I am talking to you about something much more important. Just as a little yeast causes the whole loaf to rise, you must be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.

[Narrator]

The disciples thought for a moment before having a collective epiphany.

[Pharisee]

I believe he's talking about their teachings. If we're not careful, their lies will spread faster than we can prepare for.

[Narrator]

Jesus nodded at Philip in affirmation. He shifted his weight in the boat and looked past the bow.

[Jesus]

It looks like we're almost across the sea. Pack your things. Oh, and John, make sure you plot a course for the best bakery in town.

[Narrator]

The disciples blushed as the boat bobbed to the edge of the sea. Instinctively, Andrew, Simon, James and John were out first. James and John were first out. They wrapped their calloused hands around the ropes tied to the bow and pulled the boat into the shoreline. The underbelly scraped along the rocks until it was securely on land. The remaining disciples clamored out. They strapped their bags around their shoulders and began the trip to Caesarea Philippi. The evening air drove out the heat of the day. As the day drew to a close, the sound of wildlife had been replaced by the rustling of leaves in the cool breeze. The disciples feet kicked up small billows of dust that created a hazy glow of orange and red in the setting sun. Not many words were spoken Amongst them, as Jesus warning still rattled through their brains. They circled a small fire made in the middle of their camp. Many stared blankly into it, watching the embers crack and pop under the intense heat. Jesus looked at each of them, each of their brows furrowed with confusion. Exhaustion or contemplation? For Thomas, it was a combination of the three.

[Jesus]

Either you're all very tired or you've all fallen ill. I've never been able to hear my thoughts so clearly than when we're together.

[Pharisee]

Sorry, Rabbi. It's just we've been thinking. About what? What you said on the boat earlier. The yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

[Jesus]

Ah, yes. And what conclusions have you come to?

[Pharisee]

They seem to determine to undermine your work and contradict your every word. They've seen the miracles. They've heard your teachings. Yet they deny that you come from God.

[Jesus]

They do indeed. And they won't be the last. But let me ask you a question. Beyond the Pharisees and the Sadducees, who do people say that I am?

[Narrator]

The disciples looked at each other first. They had discussed the question at length, all coming to mixed conclusions. They knew he was the Messiah, the Anointed One of God. But what did that mean exactly? They knew he was from God. But how divine was he? They knew he spoke like a prophet, but he was more than a prophet. Jesus identity was clear, yet shrouded in mystery. All at once people talk.

[Jesus]

Some say you're John the Baptist.

[Pharisee]

Yes, we've heard others say that you're Elijah. Return to proclaim the truth of God.

[Disciple (possibly Andrew or James)]

And if not Elijah, then Jeremiah or one of the prophets.

[Jesus]

It seems I've made quite the name for myself. Or many names, as it were.

[Narrator]

Jesus paused and scanned the disciples.

[Jesus]

But what about you? Who do you say that I am?

[Narrator]

Jesus. Inquiry came off as more of a command than an inquiry. The men thought quietly to themselves. They knew Jesus as their rabbi and believed he came empowered by the spirit of God. But Jesus seemed to be asking a deeper question. Finally, Simon spoke up.

[Disciple (possibly Andrew or James)]

Us.

[Disciple]

We may not be religious teachers who have devoted ourselves away to studying the Scriptures, but we have followed you. We have seen your works with our

[Pharisee]

own eyes and heard your word with our own ears.

[Jesus]

And what have you come to know, Simon?

[Host (Ethan)]

There is no denying who you are.

[Pharisee]

You are Messiah, the son of the living God.

[Narrator]

Jesus leaned forward. He stared at Simon through the rising flames. His eyes were intense and knowing.

[Jesus]

Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah. But this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, for not even the Pharisees can see it. This was revealed to you by my Father in heaven.

[Narrator]

Peter was silent, filled with a sense of honor and humility. Jesus puffed out his chest, his voice captivating all of the disciples. Jesus pointed to Simon.

[Jesus]

And no longer shall you be called Simon. But you are Peter Rock. You are a rock, Peter.

[Narrator]

Jesus placed his closed fist on his chest. The thump resonated among the disciples.

[Jesus]

And it is on this rock I will build my church. And the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven. But whatever you loosen on earth would be loosened in heaven.

[Narrator]

Stunned by what had happened, the disciples said nothing. They looked to Peter, assuming he would be the first to respond.

[Disciple]

Lord, I don't know what to say.

[Jesus]

Ah, a day of many firsts, I see.

[Narrator]

Jesus could sense the swirling emotions of the disciples. They had spent their whole lives praying for the Messiah, and here he stood before them. Joy and awe welled up within them at the news.

[Jesus]

But I must tell you something important. Though my Father has revealed to all of you today that I am the Messiah, I must ask you to do one thing.

[Disciple]

Yes, of course, Lord.

[Pharisee]

Anything.

[Narrator]

Peter found his voice once again and quickly embraced his new title as the Rock.

[Jesus]

What you have so gladly received this day will not be quickly received by everyone else. You must be careful for now to not tell anyone who I am. When the time is right, all will be revealed to the world.

[Host (Ethan)]

Let's set the scene. Jesus and his disciples are in Caesarea Philippi, a region known for its religious diversity. Temples of ancient gods dotted the landscape, and there was even a shrine to the God Pan. It was in this context, surrounded by symbols of false gods and idols, that Jesus chose to ask his disciples, who do men say that I, the Son of man, am? The disciples responded with a list of names. Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets. These were big names, revered figures in Jewish history. People saw Jesus as a revolutionary like John the Baptist, a miracle worker like Elijah, or a prophet like Jeremiah. But these comparisons, while complementary, fell short. They underestimated who Jesus truly was. And then Jesus makes it personal. But who do you say that I am? This question cuts through the noise, the opinions of others, and demands a personal response. Peter, in a moment of divine inspiration, steps forward and declares, you are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Now lets pause here and unpack what Peter just said. By calling Jesus the Christ, Peter was recognizing him as the long awaited Messiah. The Anointed One, the one who would save Israel. But Peter doesn't stop there. He goes further, declaring Jesus as the Son of the living God. This wasn't just a recognition of Jesus as a great leader or prophet. It was a declaration of his divinity. Peter was saying, you're not just from God, you are God. In a world filled with different opinions about Jesus, Peter's confession stands out as a moment of clarity and truth. And Jesus responds with a blessing. Blessed are you, Simon bar Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. Peter didn't come to this realization on his own. It was revealed to him by God. This brings us to a crucial point. Understanding who Jesus truly is isn't something we can arrive at through our own wisdom or intellect. It's something that God reveals to us often in those moments when we are most open to hearing his voice. So why does this matter? Because if Jesus is who he says he is, if he is indeed the Christ, the Son of the living God, then everything he says and does must be a paramount priority in our lives. We can't just see him as a good teacher or a moral leader. We must see him as Lord. And if He's Lord, then His words, his teachings, his commands take precedence over everything else in our lives. But let's be honest. In the busyness of life, it's easy to let our view of Jesus become too familiar, too comfortable. We know the stories. We've heard the sermons. And sometimes Jesus can become just a Another part of our routine. When this happens, we risk losing the wonder and the awe that should accompany our relationship with Him. Just as the people of Caesarea Philippi underestimated Jesus, we too can underestimate him by confining him to the safe, comfortable boxes we've built. But Jesus isn't just another religious figure. He's God. And because He's God, his presence in our lives should challenge us, stretch us, and push us beyond and outside of our comfort zones. Let's take a moment to reflect. Who do we say that Jesus is? Do we see him as the Son of the living God, the Lord of our lives, The One whose words and commands we must follow with all of our hearts? Or have we allowed our familiarity with him to dull our sense of his greatness? Peter's confession was bold and it was true. Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. And because he is, we are called to live in response to that truth, to prioritize his words, to follow his commands, to Let his presence shape every aspect of our lives. As we close, let's ask God to reveal Himself to us anew, to rekindle in our hearts a fresh sense of awe and wonder at who Jesus is. Let's pray for the courage to live out the truth of Peter's confession, not just with our words, with our lives, but with our lives.