(10–12 minutes, easy set-up)
Students will learn the meaning of Jesus’ declaration that Peter was a “rock.”
(10-12 minutes, easy set-up)
Download the "Misunderstood?" PDF. Provide a copy for each student. Download the "Misunderstood? Key" PDF. Print a copy.
Read Matthew 16:17-18. Explain that these verses have been interpreted several ways. Discuss that some think when Jesus said, "on this rock . . ." He truly meant Peter was the foundation of the Church, while others think Peter's confession was the foundation of the Church. Another common interpretation is that Jesus was saying Peter was a small rock and the Church would be built upon the solid rock of Jesus. Scripture heavily supports another interpretation.
Ask a student to read Matthew 16:17-18 again. Divide students into two groups. Give each student a copy of the "Misunderstood?" PDF. Tell them to work with group members to answer the questions. After five minutes ask students to read aloud their questions and answers. Use the answers from the "Misunderstood Key" PDF. After the discussion, read 1 Corinthians 3:11.
Say: Jesus blessed Peter. Because he correctly identified His Lord, Peter became the first brick in the foundation of all believers. This was an incredible blessing upon Peter, one we cannot discount. Jesus serves as the cornerstone upon which the Church is built. Take Jesus away and the Church falls. The Church is built on Christ alone.