“Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, ‘Who do people say I am?’ They replied, ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.’ ‘But what about you?’ he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?’ Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah.’ Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.” (Mark 8:27-30)

In Mark 8:27–30 Jesus asked his disciples what they and the people believed about him. Jesus was not seeking to stroke his ego, nor was he asking for information. They were near Caesarea Philippi known for its worship of pagan gods and temples erected for the fertility god Pan. The crowds considered Jesus a great prophet like John the Baptist or Elijah. They certainly admired him but followed him more out of curiosity or for profit. To them, he was simply a great person and maybe a god. Speaking for the disciples, Peter declared that he was Messiah—God’s anointed one empowered by God to establish his righteous kingdom. Adoration had replaced admiration. Neither curious or selfish, the disciples were committed to helping Jesus build his kingdom. They had struggled to believe, but now they were dedicated. It was a critical turning point. Serving leaders aim for absolute devotion to the ultimate One. 

KEY QUESTIONS: Who do I follow at a distance out of curiosity or for profit? With whom should I take the next step toward greater commitment and dedication? Who needs me to call them up to a higher level of commitment? How does my leadership inspire dedication to the ultimate One?