As we continue to study Lesson 13 in the New Testament manual, we come across a beautiful testimony of the divinity of the Savior by the apostle Peter. I would like to explore the idea of testimonies and where they take root from as we examine Matthew 16:13-19.
Following the second miracle of the loaves and fishes, Jesus asks His disciples who men say He is. I found verse 13 a bit confusing, as Christ refers to himself as “I the Son of man”. I thought about how Satan referred to Moses as the son of man rather than the Son of God when trying to tempt him, and how the prophet rejected that title (Moses 1:12-13). Why, then, would Jesus refer to himself as such? However, as I searched for the phrase “Son of Man” in the scriptures, I found that it came with numerous references towards the Savior. A section in the Pearl of Great Price further illuminated this passage: “in the language of Adam, Man of Holiness is his [meaning God’s] name, and the name of his Only Begotten is the Son of Man, even Jesus Christ”. Thus, in asking His question, Christ provides the true answer.
The apostles, of course, answer that most men do not recognize the divinity of Christ. When they are all asked who they believe Him to be, Peter responds with a faith-filled testimony: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Here, he testifies not only of Christ but that God lives. The Savior responds, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” He then goes on to state that “upon this rock I will build my church.”
In studying the scriptures, the rock the church is to be built on seems somewhat unclear. But modern day revelation from the Prophet Joseph Smith reveals that this rock is, in fact, revelation. Thus, the church then and the church today was built on revelation. Is built on revelation.
There are many forms of revelation. Having spoken to several people outside of the church (and having been a member for only ten years), it is apparent that most people consider revelation to be along the lines of visions and angelic hosts. These are, of course, types of revelation. But few people refer to personal revelation the way members of the church do. We have within us the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, to prompt and lead us. The Spirit testifies to us of the divinity of Christ, even as it did to Simon Peter, and that Spirit is stronger and more binding than angelic appearances. The personal revelation that we carry within us is what makes the church grow stronger. Not only does it help us become more committed to the Savior as our testimonies increase, but it also brings new members into the church as they feel that swelling of their hearts, the burning in their bosoms, that testifies of the truthfulness of the gospel.
We are truly blessed to be part of a church that regards revelation as part of its foundation. That revelation comes to us from the Savior, through the Holy Spirit. We ought always be grateful to have a Heavenly Father who constantly seeks to commune with us, and seek out ways to strengthen and share our testimonies.
Related Articles:
RS/EQ: Questioning Your Testimony (along with any other RS/EQ lessons from this week!)
Visiting Teaching: Strengthening Your Personal Testimony of Jesus Christ
For other talks relating to this week’s lesson, check out the Gospel Doctrine link.