Bible moment
The Bible moment
In Matthew 16:13–20, Jesus asks his disciples who people say the Son of Man is. They report several answers, including John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, and one of the prophets. Jesus then asks who they say he is. Simon Peter answers, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus blesses Simon and says that his Father in heaven revealed this to him. Jesus calls him Peter, speaks of building his church on this rock, and says that the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. He gives Peter the keys of the kingdom of heaven and speaks about what is bound or loosed on earth and in heaven. Jesus then commands the disciples not to tell anyone that he is the Christ.
Look closely
What children can notice
Jesus presents Peter with the keys of the kingdom of heaven as he speaks about the authority described in the passage. Keep the keys visually simple and prominent without adding a throne, palace, angel, or symbolic explanation. Show Jesus and Peter distinctly, with the other disciples optional only if they support the scene without distraction.
Talk together
Talk about it
- What did Peter say about who Jesus is?
- What did Jesus give Peter in this passage?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Read Matthew 16:13–20 before viewing the page. Invite children to notice the question Jesus asked, Peter’s answer, and Jesus’ instruction at the end. Keep discussion close to the passage, especially when talking about the keys and authority.
Source note
From this passage
Matthew 16:19 · Peter’s Confession
Jesus presents Peter with the keys of the kingdom of heaven as he speaks about the authority described in the passage. Keep the keys visually simple and prominent without adding a throne, palace, angel, or symbolic explanation. Show Jesus and Peter distinctly, with the other disciples optional only if they support the scene without distraction.
