CCC 440 Jesus accepted Peter’s profession of faith, which acknowledged him to be the Messiah, by announcing the imminent Passion of the Son of Man.1 He unveiled the authentic content of his messianic kingship both in the transcendent identity of the Son of Man “who came down from heaven”, and in his redemptive mission as the suffering Servant: “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”2 Hence the true meaning of his kingship is revealed only when he is raised high on the cross.3 Only after his Resurrection will Peter be able to proclaim Jesus’ messianic kingship to the People of God: “Let all the house of Israel therefore know assuredly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”4
CCC 664 Being seated at the Father’s right hand signifies the inauguration of the Messiah’s kingdom, the fulfillment of the prophet Daniel’s vision concerning the Son of man: “To him was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.”5 After this event the apostles became witnesses of the “kingdom [that] will have no end”.6
CCC 678 Following in the steps of the prophets and John the Baptist, Jesus announced the judgment of the Last Day in his preaching.7 Then will the conduct of each one and the secrets of hearts be brought to light.8 Then will the culpable unbelief that counted the offer of God’s grace as nothing be condemned.9 Our attitude to our neighbor will disclose acceptance or refusal of grace and divine love.10 On the Last Day Jesus will say: “Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”11
1 Cf. Mt 16:16-23.
2 Jn 3:13; Mt 20:28; cf. Jn 6:62; Dan 7:13; Is 53:10-12.
3 Cf. Jn 19:19-22; Lk 23:39-43.
4 Acts 2:36.
5 Dan 7:14.
6 Nicene Creed.
7 Cf. Dan 7:10; Joel 3-4; Mal 3: 19; Mt 3:7-12.
8 Cf Mk 12:38-40; Lk 12:1-3; Jn 3:20-21; Rom 2:16; I Cor 4:5.
9 Cf. Mt 11:20-24; 12:41-42.
10 Cf. Mt 5:22; 7:1-5.
11 Mt 25:40.