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I think Jesus taught Peter, and all of us a lesson in being overconfident in our faith,,In other words, we should be on guard that at anytime we are vulnerable to the ways of the world..
Sometimes the Lord shows me something in my life, shows me clearly an area that needs sanctification. And He helps me! I tell Him, "Lord, I'm through with this... I want to be different from now on, and serve You forever." I think I can do it. But then I fail again! I think that Peter was sincere in his heart, he just needed sanctification just like all the rest of us....
Peter obviously had no idea as to what was about to happen. He certain was in a state of shock and not thinking too clearly. It must have been an unbelievable few hours. Nothing they had been through together prepared them for this! In other words, Peter was being human.
We also tend to do and speak first before we think. This is a good admonition for us to watch what we say and promise. Our words, just like his, have a nasty way of coming back to bite us.
How far did Peter feel ready to go in following Jesus? Do you think he meant what he said?
Peter went all the way in following Jesus, just as it was predetermined for him to do. Peter denying Jesus was a fulfillment of prophecy: Zechariah 13:7 "Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd,
And against the man, My Associate,"
Declares the LORD of hosts
"Strike the Shepherd that the sheep may be scattered;
And I will turn My hand against the little ones.
Jesus tells Peter in Luke 22:32 once you return, strengthen the brethren. This is something Jesus had to do himself.
Remember also, Jesus chose these disciples they did not choose Him. Finally, at Pentecost everything was different, no more denying Him, many even died a Martyrs death.
Peter is one of those disciples I love so dearly. I identify with him the most. When I look at him its like I am catching quick reflection of myself on a mirror. How many times have I made promises to Him only to fail Him again. How many times have I said will never do it, but I still do it. I think Peter, just like me, when he made this promise meant what he said. The spirit and heart was so willing, but the flesh was weak to do His will. My pastor once said you dont look at holiness in terms of how perfect you are but in terms of progress. Its interesting how Peter turned out at the end, how he was used by the Lord in setting up His church. The fact that this very book, the gospel of Mark, is the voice of Peter through the hand of Mark, for Peter at this time was blind, is such an inspiration to me.
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