One apostle in the Gospels appeals to us because he stands out. Peter has a reputation for being the boastful one. While others follow Jesus just as loyally, Peter always speaks up. When Jesus tries to prepare His disciples for His death and resurrection, Peter is emphatic. The others may run away, but, he, Peter will never forsake his master. Mark 14: 29 “Even if all fall away, I will not.” (NIV).
Of course, we are familiar with what happened when the chips were down. While Jesus was on trial inside, Peter was on trial outside in the courtyard. When confronted with the accusation that might lead to his own death, the boasts turned to denials. Peter had followed Jesus further than any of the others, but he could not summon the courage to put himself at risk by admitting his association with the Man who was on his way to being executed. Imagine his humiliation when as Luke says, Jesus looked his way (Luke 22:61). Jesus had predicted Peter’s downfall, but that couldn’t have helped in that terrible moment of human failure. Luke reports that Peter wept bitterly.
But Jesus still had plans for Peter. After the resurrection, Peter was one of the first to discover the truth and spread the word. The name Jesus had given him “The Rock” would fit him well as he became the foundation for the new Church.
We can see that Peter continued to be bold, even after failing his Lord so miserably. He writes to tell us first to pray, and then to continue to speak up. No human can be perfect, but we can allow God to use our failures to make us stronger, more fit for His plan for our lives.
First Peter 4:11 (NIV) “If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
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