Thoughts From the Bible

Read Mark 14: 66- 72-  Peter denied the man he spent more than three years following.  In verses 71 and 72 we read,  ‘(71) The he began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!” (72) A secon d  time  the rooster  crowed . Then Pet er called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” and when he thought about it, he wept.’   Peter recognized his sin.  His fear kept him from standing confidently for Jesus Christ as Jesus was being condemned. What did the people who recognized Peter think when Peter denied he knew Jesus?  I would contend it hurt Peter’s testimony of his faith and belief in Jesus. It also hurt Jesus’ impact with those people around Peter that night. They could have easily thought  when things were  hard for the followers,  they did not believe what they said. The impact of denying Jesus was deep.  I need to be aware of how ...

Read Matthew 26: 69- 75 -  My guess was that Peter was scared. This host of people arrived and arrested Jesus. Peter had taken a swing at one of the people there and Jesus had miraculously  healed the man’s ear, yet the people arrested Him, nonetheless. Peter may have thought the religious leaders were going to have all the disciples arrested.  Peter did not know what may happen, not only to Jesus but to him.  Regardless of how high the emotions may have been running that night, Peter denied knowing Jesus. Three times. Pe ter had two other chances to correct his  initial  denials and stand up for  Jesus,  but Peter failed three times.  I need to prepare myself for a time when I may be asked whether I know Jesus or not. I need to not  allow my emotions to  run away  with me and know I will stand as a believer and Jesus Christ and not only testify I am a believer but do so proudly. I need to kn ow  now how I will respond . I...