Lessons From Peter

Few Biblical characters can generate a wider range of opinions than Peter. He answered Christ's call to leave his profession and follow him (Luke 5:8-11). He was a devoted follower of Christ; part of his inner circle. He passionately preached the Gospel at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41). Yet he also denied his Savior three times (Luke 22:54-62) after Jesus was arrested and taken away to be crucified; just hours after declaring he would follow Jesus to his death (v.33). What then, can we learn from this man whom Jesus declared he would use to build his church?

First of all, it is critical that we know Jesus is our Lord and Savior. Peter knew exactly who Jesus was. While the Jewish people were all trying to figure out who this remarkable teacher was who had come on to the scene, it was Peter who declared "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:16). Secondly, our Lord is keenly aware of when we sin and deny him. Though he was off in the distance, Jesus made eye contact with Peter after he denied him three times (Luke 22:60-62). Thirdly, our Lord stands ready to restore our relationship with him when we confess and repent of our sins. Jesus forgave Peter and charged him with continuing in the ministry he had started (John 21).

Peter, like each one of us, was created in God's image. God had a purpose and plan for his life, just like he does for us. Peter's mistakes didn't invalidate God's plan to use him to build his everlasting church (Matthew 16:18). And in spite of our failings and our shortcomings, God can do mighty things through us if we are willing to be yielded to Him and not our own sinful desires.