“The fear of death is ingrafted in the common nature of all men, but faith works it out of Christians.”
Vavasor Powell
Peter was a complicated man. He was primus inter pares—first among equals. When we encounter lists of the apostles he is always listed first and Judas is always listed last. (Compare Matthew 10 and Luke 6) Peter was able to perceive partially who Jesus was, that is, Peter, by the gift of grace, recognized the uniqueness of Jesus—“You are the Christ, Son of the Living God.” (Matthew 16) Peter’s devotion could cause him to step out bravely on the waves of a sea. (Matthew 14). Peter’s bravery could cause him to draw the sword against Malchus, the high priest’s servant. (John 18:10). But he had a flaw, D. A. Carson writes, “At this point in his pilgrimage, Peter’s intentions and self-assessment vastly outstrip his strength.” Peter had a self-confidence that revealed both a real fervency for Christ and a real lack of awareness of his own weakness. He trusted in his own strength and was put on display for all the world to see that this was actually a weakness. “Peter said to him, ‘Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.’” (John 13:37) He forgot that “we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” (2 Cor. 4:7) He believed in his own strength but he failed to remember that “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.” (Prov. 28:26 NIV)
Now before we pile on to Peter, we need to remember that all the disciples asserted the very same thing: “Jesus said to him, ‘Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny me three times.’ Peter said to him, ‘Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you!’ And all the disciples said the same.” (Matthew 26:34-35) After asserting his desire to die with Jesus, Peter receives a stunning prophetic word from Jesus:
Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times. “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 13:37-14:1)
Prophetic words in the Bible can take a long, long time to be fulfilled. God is not in a rush like we generally are. This word spoken to Peter would find its fulfillment in less than a day! This fact in no way lessens the amazing nature of the prophecy. How does Jesus continue this prophecy? With a word of comfort designed for all the disciples. He encourages them to believe in him. Today, whatever you might be facing, please turn to Christ and trust in him. He is faithful. Have a blessed day and we will see many of you on Sunday.
Love in Christ,
Pastor Dale
