This discourse of the fourth book of the gospel is often called the “church order” discourse, but it lacks most of the considerations usually connected with church order, such as various offices in the church and the duties of each, and deals principally with the relations that must obtain among the members of the church.

The risks and rewards of following Jesus

Gospel: Matthew 16: 21–27
For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.

What would you do to prevent a family member or a loved one from getting hurt? If you thought they were about to make a foolish choice wouldn't you speak up and try to dissuade them; try to get them to rethink what they were about to do?

Who is Jesus for me, and how does Jesus impact my life?

Gospel: Matthew 16: 13–20
Who do YOU say that I am?

We now reach a high point in Matthew’s narrative. More than any of the other gospels, his is a Gospel of the Church. (Mark emphasizes discipleship; Luke the communication of God’s love and compassion; John unity with God through Jesus.)