This topic is collection lessons and ideas about the story of Jesus' question, "Who do people say that I am," and Peter's declaration that Jesus is the Messiah. In response, Jesus says, "Upon this rock I will build my church...."

found in Matthew 16 and Mark 8

Matthew 16:13-20

Peter Says Jesus Is the Christ
13 Jesus came into the country of Caesarea Philippi. He asked His followers, “Who do people say that I, the Son of Man, am?” 14 They said, “Some say You are John the Baptist and some say Elijah and others say Jeremiah or one of the early preachers.”

15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

17 Jesus said to him, “Simon, son of Jonah, you are happy because you did not learn this from man. My Father in heaven has shown you this.

18 “And I tell you that you are Peter. On this rock I will build My church. The powers of hell will not be able to have power over My church. 19 I will give you the keys of the holy nation of heaven. Whatever you do not allow on earth will not have been allowed in heaven. Whatever you allow on earth will have been allowed in heaven.” 20 Then with strong words He told His followers to tell no one that He was the Christ.

Mark 8:27-30

Peter Says Jesus Is the Christ
27 Jesus and His followers went from there to the towns of Caesarea Philippi. As they went, He asked His followers, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 They answered, “Some say John the Baptist and some say Elijah and others say one of the early preachers.” 29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter said, “You are the Christ.” 30 He told them with strong words that they should tell no one about Him.

Note:

This "secondary" story in the Gospels isn't typically included in Rotation-style Sunday School curriculums simply because most Rotation programs only cover 8 to 12 stories per year. That means some "second and third tier" stories get left out of the scope and sequence so that the "major" stories are covered in-depth. It's a good example of "less is more" in Rotation thinking, because by trying to cover every good story, the kids end up not remembering most of them.  Which stories get left out is up to you. You can see recommended lists here.

You're welcome to post your resources here for this story!