In his writings on Spiritual Theology, Peterson suggests that Mark 8:27-9:9 is particularly important. In the Gospel of Mark this passage comprises the confession of Peter at Caesarea Philippi and then the Transfiguration of Jesus. In Mark the event at Caesarea Philippi is seen as a watershed in the Gospel. From this point on Jesus is on his way to
Peterson suggests that in these two events bring together the No and Yes that work together at the heart of spiritual theology.
In the event at Caesarea Philippi where Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ and then immediately objects when Jesus speaks about how Jesus describes what is to come. The challenge of Jesus at this point is vivid and stark - “ if any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Following Jesus means not following the ways of the world. Peterson writes: “ No is a freedom word… the art of saying No sets us free to follow Jesus."
In the Transfiguration we hear the YES of God - this is my beloved son, listen to Him. Peterson writes – “ the word beauty does not occur in the story, but beauty is what the disciples experienced.”
“Climbing the mountain with Jesus means coming upon beauty that takes our breath away. Staying in the company of Jesus means contemplating his glory, listening in on this vast, intergenerational conversation consisting of law and prophet and gospel that takes place around Jesus, hearing the divine confirmation of revelation in Jesus….. Mark has set this story of glorious affirmation in immediate juxtaposition to his story of stern negation.”
Is Peterson highlighting two aspect of living the Christian life? There is the freedom to say ‘No’ to that which diverts us from following in the way of Jesus. There is also the beauty and the glory to be experienced in our astonished adoration at what God has done and does in Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. In our response we say Yes to what God has done and is doing.
Peterson also points out that at both events Peter got it wrong. At Caesarea Philippi he tried to avoid the cross and suggested a better plan to Jesus and received the strongest of rebukes. On the mountain he tried to possess the glory and take over from Jesus by providing something hands on and practical.
Spiritual Theology must embrace the definitive No and glorious Yes of Jesus, crucified and risen.
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