Matthew 16:13-20 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 16:13-20 on biblegateway.com
Verse 13Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" Verse 14And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." Verse 15He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Verse 16Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Verse 17And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. Verse 18And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. Verse 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." Verse 20Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.
Devotion
There seems to be some risk in this talk about holding the keys of the kingdom. What’s up with this matter of binding and loosening? What about Law and Gospel? Isn’t it up to God to be judge and jury? Sounds like something that could be easily abused. Our wars over religion teach us that whatever you want to bind on earth had best be carefully and humbly considered! Or else it could become a thin veil for abusive power or even ruthless striving for dominance rather than harmony.
Yet, there has to be some way for justice to prevail for all. For the victim and justice, I understand the need to bind. Sin needs restraint. For the freedom of forgiveness, I understand the need to loose. We still cling to the mystery of God’s final word, while realizing at the same time we need the honest law, true justice, and fair compassion for all here on earth. Humility helps.
Prayer
God of all peoples, we seek the rock of truth to build community. Bring us to a better knowledge of your gracious, inclusive rule in heaven and on earth. Teach us loving ways, open our vision to see you in daily life. Amen.