Big Idea: While Matthew warns his readers against the unbelief and wrong teachings of the Jewish leaders, he provides the right response to Jesus in the disciples’ confession of Jesus as the Messiah, which comes via revelation from God.

Understanding the Text

This passage provides a climactic summary of a number of key story elements that Matthew has introduced thus far. First, the request from the Jewish leaders for Jesus to provide a sign (16:1–4; see 12:38) culminates the various controversies that Matthew has narrated between the Jewish leaders and Jesus (e.g., 9:34; 12:22–24; 15:11–20). Second, the confusion of the disciples over bread (16:5–12) highlights the continued struggle of the Twelve to understand and trust in Jesus and his authority (16:8). Most importantly, Jesus’ identity as…