Definition: Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 16:22. It’s a really important moment in Jesus' ministry and speaks about his relationship with his followers. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jesus was traveling with his disciples (the followers of him) when he was approached by a man named Satan – essentially, a spiritual enemy. This man was named Peter, and he was being challenged and agitated. What Happened Next: Peter’s Reaction: Instead of arguing or getting angry, Peter immediately turned away from Jesus. He said, “Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.” “Be it far from thee…” – This means “Don't do this; it's not for you.” He’s essentially saying, "I don’t want you to do this." “…Lord” - This is a formal address of respect, showing he recognizes Jesus as the divine authority. “This shall not be unto thee” – This is the core of the verse. It means “It won't happen to you.” He’s warning Jesus that this action (or situation) is not his responsibility or for him to handle on his own. What it Means Figuratively: This verse isn't just about Peter saying "no" to something specific. It’s a powerful message about: Jesus' Authority: It shows that Jesus has complete authority over all people, and he doesn’t need to be involved in every situation. His Protection: It signifies that Jesus is protecting himself from negativity and trouble – things that are beyond his control. Focus on God: It emphasizes the importance of focusing on God's will and purpose rather than getting caught up in worldly issues or distractions. In a nutshell, Peter is saying: “I don’t want this to happen to me. Don't do it.” Why is it important? This verse is often seen as a key moment in the Gospels because it shows Jesus’ control and his dedication to protecting himself from challenges. It's a reminder that he's not reliant on others or situations, but instead focuses solely on God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you a different perspective on its meaning? Connect it to a specific story in the Bible?