Fresh StartSample

Coming back from the edge

Peter is a very dynamic character in the Bible. His story is one that many people relate to, and his impulsive ways often reflect our own.

Peter is, potentially, most famous for being the disciple who vowed to never leave Jesus’ side, no matter what came His way, then denied that he even knew Him...three times.

As we talk about fresh starts and beginning again, let’s look at Peter’s story a little more.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

On the way, Jesus told them, “Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say,

‘God will strike the Shepherd,
and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.’

But after I have been raised from the dead, I will go ahead of you to Galilee and meet you there.”

Peter declared, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I will never desert you.”

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, Peter—this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.”

“No!” Peter insisted. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the other disciples vowed the same.

(Matthew 26:31-35 NLT)

We are told in the Old Testament not to make casual vows before the Lord God as He takes them seriously (see Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). If we are set upon making a vow before God, we are encouraged to keep it.

Peter was adamant that he would stand by Jesus’ side no matter what. In his heart, he believed it, I’m sure, but his passion and impulsivity led him to a serious fall.

Peter Denies Jesus

Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, “You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean.”

But Peter denied it in front of everyone. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said.

Later, out by the gate, another servant girl noticed him and said to those standing around, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.”

Again Peter denied it, this time with an oath. “I don’t even know the man,” he said.

A little later some of the other bystanders came over to Peter and said, “You must be one of them; we can tell by your Galilean accent.”

Peter swore, “A curse on me if I’m lying—I don’t know the man!” And immediately the rooster crowed.

Suddenly, Jesus’ words flashed through Peter’s mind: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he went away, weeping bitterly.

(Matthew 26:69-75 NLT)

I can imagine the pain that shot through Peter’s heart when he realised that Jesus’s prediction of his betrayal was accurate. Knowing that he had vehemently opposed Jesus’ accusation then gone back on his word – three times! - must have hurt him deeply. He did love Jesus, which made his denials all the more painful, I’m sure.

The story, however, goes on...