Bible moment
The Bible moment
In Matthew 16:14, Jesus’ disciples report that some people say he is John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. These are reported opinions, not the final answer in the passage. The scene belongs to Jesus’ question about who people say the Son of Man is. Keep the named identities as words that the disciples report, rather than presenting any of those people as present. The account continues with Jesus asking whom the disciples themselves say he is, but that next answer is not part of this illustration concept. This moment helps children notice the difference between what people say about Jesus and what his disciples are asked to understand about him. Use the wording and limits of Matthew 16:14 without adding explanations, rankings, or details from other Gospel accounts.
Look closely
What children can notice
Jesus listens as the disciples report the identities people have suggested: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. The named figures should not be drawn as present; they may be represented only through simple, clearly labeled text if text is used, while keeping the scene centered on Jesus and the disciples.
Talk together
Talk about it
- What identities did the disciples report?
- Why should we distinguish a reported opinion from the passage’s final answer?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Use this page before discussing Peter’s confession in Matthew 16:15–16. Invite children to identify the four reported possibilities without ranking them. Explain that the names are mentioned in the disciples’ report, not shown as people present. Keep the discussion centered on careful listening to the Bible’s account.
Source note
From this passage
Matthew 16:14 · Peter’s Confession
Jesus listens as the disciples report the identities people have suggested: John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. The named figures should not be drawn as present; they may be represented only through simple, clearly labeled text if text is used, while keeping the scene centered on Jesus and the disciples.
