With a friend, your family or in your small group, discuss the following questions. 

1. Discuss your favourite Comic hero and what it is about that character that so appeals to you. Are there times when you have “hidden” a part of who you are from others? Describe why you felt that was necessary. 
2. In the first century world of Jesus, what do you think it was that limited some people from seeing who he really was and why he came to earth? 
3. If Jesus were to ask you who the world thinks he is, how would you respond? If he were to ask you who you think he is, would your answer be any different? Why or why not? Who is Jesus to you? 
4. After getting his disciples to share who they think he is, Jesus then warns them in Matthew 16:20 to not tell anyone that he was the Messiah. Why do you think Jesus is now concerned with their secrecy about his identity? 
5. Why did Jesus have to die? Why was his coming as a “suffering servant”, not the kind of Messiah the people were expecting? 
6. Why is a dead Messiah, a failed Messiah? Why is Jesus’ resurrection so important to the rescue mission of God to humanity? 
7. Why did Jesus reprimand Peter so harshly for questioning why he had to suffer and die? 
8. Why is Jesus’ pathway to discipleship outlined in Matthew 16:24 so difficult for Christians in our culture, today? “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. 

Prayer and Action Item  

Pray for one another out of the key points that were discussed. Invite Jesus to reveal to you the ways that you can continue the life long journey of becoming more like him and helping others to do the same.