This chapter is a watershed in Jesus' ministry pointing to his death and resurrection and the strong demands linked to following the Lord. Initially Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and Sadducees for asking for a sign when they are incapable of interpreting the signs of the times which will culminate in "the sign of Jonah". Next Jesus says: "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees". Initially the disciples think Jesus is referring to that "we didn't bring any bread" but later they realized that he was warning against the false teaching of these groups. Then Jesus asks his disciples who people are saying he is and they tell him: "John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the prophets". So Jesus asks them and what about you? "Who do you say that I am"? To this Simon Peter answered: "You are the Christ, the son of the living God". And Jesus confirmed that this had been revealed by God. And he continued: "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell will not overcome it... I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven". So "from that time on Jesus explained to his disciples that he would suffer, be killed, and on the third day rise again." Peter reacts against this saying, Never Lord!... so Jesus retorted out of my sight Satan... for anyone who follows me must deny himself and take up his cross... for what can a man give in exchange for his soul... and some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom". (a possible reference to the transfiguration in the next chapter or to the resurrection)
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