Know Your People’s Hearts

Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?” Matthew 16:15

This is part of a classic exchange between Jesus and Peter. After this conversation, Jesus named Peter to a special leadership position and gave him “the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 16:19).

In reading the entire passage, it is clear that Jesus is looking for a very specific answer. I am convinced he already knew what Peter would say, so why did Jesus want Peter to answer the questions out loud?

There is great value in having someone look you in the eye and verbally affirm what you already know (or suspect) is in his or her heart.

There is also great danger in presuming that similar interests and experiences automatically confirm common beliefs or a shared vision.

It is important to know the hearts of the people you appoint to key leadership roles. Peter was apparently the only one who answered Jesus correctly.

Ask the tough questions and expect the right answers when you plan to give someone a key position on your team.