Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
Matt 26:31-35 // Mark 14:27-31; cp. Luke 22:31-34; cp. John 13:36-38
31On the way, Jesus told them, “Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say,
‘God will strike the cShepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’
32But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.”
33Peter declared, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I will never desert you.”
34Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, Peter—this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.”
35“No!” Peter insisted. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the other disciples vowed the same.
These 11 men have been with Jesus for 3 years and seen him do so many miracles and wonders. They couldn’t comprehend abandoning him. Can you imagine abandoning Jesus? I can… because I have done it so often.
The 11 were about to enter one of their live’s greatest pressure points. In the intensity of that moment, instead of depending on Jesus and staying with him, they trusted their own instincts and they fled. How many times in life when the pressure is on do we stop resting in Jesus and start frantically trying to solve the problem ourselves? I do it all the time. When will I learn to stay calm and just lean on Jesus?
Or we can consider it another way. The 11 were at a point where they could proclaim publicly that they were followers of Jesus and take whatever persecution came their way. They chose to run away from Jesus. I know I’ve done that plenty too. To these men’s credit, they all eventually matured into such steadfast followers that they did give their lives for their faith. Can I right now give my life for Jesus? Can I sacrifice my job, or my family, or my home because I openly proclaim to be a follower of Jesus? I’m not sure. Are you?
One more thing: The men that fled all had to come back to Jesus. They didn’t let their shame keep them away. We have all turned our backs on Jesus. He wants us back. He can use us if we let him.
Lord, help me to stay with You and claim You and accept what comes my way. Mature me into a follow who will truly pay any price to be with You. Beginner’s Online Bible Study *obbs* Beginner’s Online Bible Study *obbs*
