Peter lied to Jesus and denied knowing him. What did Jesus do to Peter? Jesus died for him, conquered the grave and rose from the dead, then came looking for him. You’d think Jesus would mention Peter’s denial of him, but he didn’t. He met him where he was and affirmed his calling. Jesus will do the same for you.
If you feel like you’ve grown distant from God in your heart, I can assure you, God has not grown distant toward you. God’s affection for you is not affected by yours for him.
A Lesson from Peter
John 21:15 So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.” 16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Tend My sheep.
You don’t catch it in the English translation, but Jesus and Peter are using two different words for love. Jesus is using agape, which is a self-sacrificial love. But Peter is using phileo, which is a brotherly kind of love. Jesus is asking Peter if he is willing to lay down his life for him, and Peter pretty much says they’re good friends.
Peter is probably feeling ashamed since he denied Jesus. He’s probably thinking he isn’t worthy to follow Jesus since he made such a huge mistake. But Jesus sees it differently. Jesus doesn’t changes his mind toward Peter and what he wants him to do for him.
Does this sound familiar? Have you ever failed Jesus and felt ashamed? Maybe even to the point of thinking you aren’t worthy to do something for God? I’m here to tell you, Jesus hasn’t given up on you. Watch this sermon to hear this idea unpacked fully. I believe it will encourage you.
