Jesus Predicts His Own Death: A Short Matthew Bible Lesson

Have you ever misunderstood God’s plan because it felt too hard or too painful? In Matthew 16, Jesus speaks about His coming suffering, death, and resurrection. What follows is one of the most surprising conversations in the Gospels—and a powerful reminder of what it truly means to follow Christ.

During His three years of ministry, Christ foretold many significant events. In this Matthew Bible lesson, we experience the moment when Jesus predicts His own death for the first time.

Even though Jesus clearly explained His suffering, death, and resurrection, the disciples struggled to understand. Peter—who had just confessed Jesus as the Messiah—showed how easy it is to resist God’s plan when it clashes with our expectations.

This passage invites us to pause and reflect. What does it really mean to follow Jesus when His path includes sacrifice?

The Foretelling: Jesus Predicts His Own Death

From that time Jesus began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, be killed, and be raised up on the third day. – Matthew 16:21

This moment marks a turning point in the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus does not speak in symbols or parables here. Instead, He openly reveals what lies ahead. His mission would include suffering—but it would also end in victory.

Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You.” – Matthew 16:22

Peter’s reaction feels understandable. He loved Jesus and could not imagine a Messiah who would suffer. Yet his response shows how human thinking can conflict with God’s greater purpose.

But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.” – Matthew 16:23

“Get Behind Me, Satan!” — What Did Jesus Mean?

At first glance, Jesus’ words sound shocking. Did He really just call Peter Satan?

No, Jesus was not saying Peter was Satan. Rather, He recognized that Peter’s words echoed the same temptation Satan had already presented—trying to divert Jesus from the cross. Jesus knew exactly why He came, and nothing could distract Him from fulfilling God’s plan.

This reminds us that even well-meaning advice can pull us away from God’s will if it places comfort above obedience.

How Many Times Did Jesus Predict His Death?

This was not the only time Jesus spoke about His coming death. Throughout the Gospels, He foretold His suffering and resurrection at least three distinct times (Matthew 16:21; Matthew 17:22–23; Matthew 20:18–19). Each time, the disciples struggled to fully grasp what He meant.

The foretelling was not meant to frighten them. Instead, it prepared them—and us—to understand that the cross was always part of God’s redemptive plan.

Temptation Can Be Subtle

We can learn multiple lessons from Matthew 16:21–28, but one stands out clearly.

Temptation often appears in unexpected forms.

We expect temptation to come from enemies or strangers. However, sometimes it comes through people who care deeply about us.

Before We Know It

Peter believed he was protecting Jesus. In the same way, friends or family may try to protect us from hardship. While their intentions may be loving, their advice can unintentionally steer us away from trusting God.

When We Are Vulnerable

Hard seasons often make us more open to outside opinions. During those times, it is especially important to measure every voice against Scripture and prayer.

Faith does not mean denying pain. It means trusting God through it. You may also find encouragement in this lesson on how faith overcomes worry: How Faith Removes Anxieties.

Christ Knew What Had to Be Done

Jesus was not confused about His mission. He knew the cross was necessary—for Peter, for the disciples, and for all who would believe (us).

Just as Peter tried to protect Christ, loved ones may try to protect us from harm or hardship. Yet God often uses trials to strengthen our faith and draw us closer to Him.

The True Purpose of Life

Jesus makes it clear that following Him involves surrender.

“If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” – Matthew 16:24

Being a follower of Christ does not promise a trouble-free life. Illness, loss, and heartbreak still happen. However, we never face them alone.

When we trust God—even when we do not understand—we grow stronger in Christ and more rooted in eternal hope.

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Him

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” – Matthew 16:26

Jesus gently reminds us that eternal life matters more than temporary comfort. Choosing His way leads to true life, both now and forever.

If you would like to continue studying Scripture, browse through our humble pages for more Bible lessons and encouragement.

Love in Christ,
Bob

If you would like to discover how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16.

*All verses from the New American Standard Bible (NASB).