Peter Denies Knowing Christ
“Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter.
Luke 22:59-61
When Jesus was arrested, Peter followed him into the courtyard, and he was recognized as being with Jesus. Three times he was asked about being with Jesus and three times he denied it. Before Jesus was arrested, Peter said, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. (Matthew 26:35)
We should never deny Christ which means we should always be Holy, and always being Holy takes courage. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. (Matthew 10:33) Satan wants us to deny Christ and he does this by trying to place us in fearful situations. There are people in this world that will not deny Christ even in the face of death.
Peter thought he would never disown Jesus and said he would even die with him. Do you think Peter was speaking out of pride? Strength and courage come from humility with a heart of love. God saved us through Christ even while we were sinners, he fills us with his Spirit, forgives our sins, gives us new identity, and promises a home in Heaven. When we recognize in our hearts that all this comes from God and not from ourselves, it makes us thankful, dependent, and humble. But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)
Love is the key to being Holy because faith and courage come from a heart of love for the Lord. Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37) In today’s world, it is difficult to show our love for the Lord unless we have the courage to remain Holy and be a witness for Christ. The more of God’s love we have in our hearts, the more courage we will have and less fear.
Why did Peter deny Jesus three times? It was fear, Satan’s favorite weapon. But if we let fear drive us to the Lord, he will give us his love and courage to endure. Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.” (Isaiah 35:4) Remember to fight evil to your last breath, then you will have peace forever in Heaven.
Today: Always stand for Christ and reflect Christ no matter what the circumstance. Remain Holy at all times even when alone. Fill your heart with God’s love by it reflecting to others, and walk with courage with a heart of love and compassion. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear. (1 John 4:18) God’s love and Satan’s fear cannot coexist in our hearts.
Prayer: Lord, fill me with your love and courage and help me to always remain Holy. Fill me with your compassion and strength that I may never deny Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen