Peter was very much devoted to the Lord. He — along with James and John — was part of a closer inner circle with Him. They were the three who witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:1) and went further into the garden with Jesus when He prayed. (Matthew 26:36-37) Peter’s devotion and willingness to stand with the Lord whatever the situation is made clear in statements such as: “Even though they all fall away, I will not” (Mark 14:29), “If I must die with you, I will not deny you” (Mark 14:31), “I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death” (Luke 22:33), and “I will lay down my life for you” (John 13:37). Also, when Jesus was being arrested in the garden, it was Peter who drew a sword to defend his Lord (John 18:10) and though others scattered (Mark 14:50) — even as was foretold (Mark 14:27-28; John 16:32) — he followed to where the Lord was taken. (John 18:15-16)
As much as Peter and the other disciples appear to have been unable to wrap their minds around the Lord’s coming death, the furthest thing from his mind was also the possibility of denying the Lord. Though his heart was in the right place, Peter needed to realize what the Lord knew about him where we read. . .
“(40) And he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. And he said to Peter, “So, could you not watch with me one hour? (41) Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”” (Matthew 26:40-41 ESV)
Though Peter was sincere and well-meaning in his statements, he was not as strong as he thought he was. Denying the Lord was never his intention, but in the moment he caved. Peter’s human certainty was not as certain as he thought it was. He still had some growing to do which included setting aside his own self-confidence.
How often have we said, “I’ve got this!” to only find we didn’t got this! (Bad English, but catch the point!) Though we strongly affirmed the right thing we would do, in the moment our self-reliance revealed our weakness. Like Peter, sometimes we don’t know until we are in the moment. Therefore, with every intention to live pleasing to the Lord, let our resolve be, “With God’s help, I’ve got this!” In learning more to rely upon God, Peter’s boldness to stand firm did grow. (i.e. Acts 4:8-12 & 19-20; 5:29 & 41-42) May it be so with us!
Have a great day SEEKING THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD FOR OUR FOLLOW THROUGH!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
