Albert Barnes Commentary Matthew 16:13

"Now when Jesus came into the parts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Who do men say that the Son of man is?" — Matthew 16:13 (ASV)

Caesarea Philippi: There were two cities in Judea called Caesarea. One was situated on the borders of the Mediterranean, and the other was the one mentioned here. It was also called Paneas, was greatly enlarged and ornamented by Philip the tetrarch, son of Herod, and called Caesarea in honor of the Roman emperor, Tiberius Caesar. To distinguish it from the other Caesarea, the name of Philip was added to it, and it was called Caesarea Philippi, or Caesarea of Philip. It was situated within the boundaries of the tribe of Naphtali, near Mount Lebanon, and was in the most northern part of Judea. It now contains about two hundred houses and is inhabited chiefly by Turks.

When Jesus came. The original is, when Jesus was coming. Mark (Mark 8:27) says that this conversation took place when they were in the way, and this idea should have been retained in translating Matthew. While in the way, Jesus took the opportunity to call their attention to the truth that he was the Messiah. It was of great importance that they should fully believe and understand this truth; and it was important, therefore, that he should often learn their views, establish them if right, and correct them if wrong. He began, therefore, by inquiring what was the common report concerning him.

Whom do men say, etc. This passage has been variously rendered. Some have translated it: Whom do men say that I am? The Son of Man? Others: Whom do men say that I am—I, who am the Son of man, i.e., the Messiah? The meaning of all is nearly the same. He wished to obtain the views of the people concerning himself.