Matthew 16 for Kids

For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up

Jesus asks His friends the most important question in the world — and Peter gives the answer that changes everything.

Today's Story

One day Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do people say I am?” They answered, “Some say John the Baptist. Some say Elijah, or one of the prophets.”

Then Jesus asked the most important question of all: “But who do YOU say I am?”

Peter spoke up boldly: “You are the Messiah — the Son of the living God!” The Messiah was the Special One God had promised to send for a long, long time. Peter understood: Jesus wasn't just a teacher or a prophet. He was God's own Son, the Promised One!

Jesus was so glad. “You are blessed, Peter! God Himself showed you this truth.” Jesus said that on this strong, rock-solid truth — that He is God's Son — He would build His church, His big family of followers. And nothing could ever defeat it.

The most important thing anyone can ever know is who Jesus really is.

A Big Word

Memory Verse

Talk About It

  1. Jesus asked, “Who do YOU say I am?” How would you answer that question?
  2. Peter said Jesus is the Son of the living God. Why is knowing who Jesus is the most important thing of all?
  3. Jesus said He would build His church — His big family of followers. How does it feel to be part of God's family?

Try This

Pray Together