The fact that the disciples have come to understand that Jesus is the Christ should surprise us. A moment ago, in Mark 8:14–22, the disciples were unable to understand who Jesus was. It appears as if their hearts were hardened and blinded by their sin (Mark 6:52; Mark 8:17). Now all of a sudden, they say that Jesus is the Christ. This is surprising and it forces us to ask the question, How did the disciples go from a place of misunderstanding (Mark 8:14–21) to understanding (Mark 8:29)?
29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.”