The apostle Peter is a favorite Bible character of many people. He was one to whom many can relate. Although Peter was a leader among the disciples, he had his shortcomings, yea, even a fall. Yet, he also had the heart of gold and rose from those times. It is for our benefit that the fall and rise of Peter concerning his denial of Jesus is recorded. Let’s learn.
PETER WAS OVERCONFIDENT OF HIMSELF. After Jesus said that all would be offended of Him, Peter responded, “Although all shall be offended, yet will not I” (Mark 14:29). Peter did not even know what the testing trial would be! Yes, it is easy to think how simple a difficulty will be—before it is begun. May it never be forgotten: “let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor. 10:12).
PETER DROPPED HIS GUARD. Immediately following Peter’s bold claim, Jesus took Peter, James and John to a garden called Gethsemane to pray. Prayer would not only help Jesus endure the cross, it would help keep Peter from denying Jesus. At the garden, Jesus went a little way further to pray alone. Upon His return He found the three sleeping. He singled out Peter when He said, “Simon (Peter), are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? Watch ye and pray lest you enter into temptation” (Mark 14:37-38). Yes, the time of praying which did help Jesus, could have helped Peter—but he dropped his guard.
PETER FELL. Judas led the mob to Jesus who took hold of Him (Mark 14:43, 46). Peter forsook Him, fled (:50) and followed afar off (:54). Amongst the onlookers Peter denied being a disciple of Jesus once, twice, yea thrice (:66-72). If Peter was not immune to falling, are we any different?
PETER’S RISE. Peter’s story has an honorable ending—he finally became that man he thought he was. First, he remembered the words of Jesus (Mark 14:72). We, too, need to remember the words of the Bible concerning living faithfully before God. Second, Peter was sorry for what he did, as is evident in his weeping; and his sorrow lead to repentance (2 Cor. 7:10). Following the resurrection and having made the change, Peter stood without fear and boldly proclaimed Jesus before a vast multitude (Acts 2:5-40).
It is easy to identify with Peter. We, too, may think we are stronger than we really are—only to later come face to face with the bitter truth. Yet, let us have the heart of gold as did Peter who turned upon that pivot point to rise and diligently serve our God Almighty.
Gary Henson