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Luke 22:54-62 – Love of God

The story of Peter’s fall teaches us first how small and gradual are the steps we take into big sins. Peter’s first step is proud self-confidence. Though all men will deny Christ, he is convinced he never will. The second step is neglect of prayer. The third step is wavering indecision. When Christ’s enemies come, Peter first fights, then runs away, then turns back to follow. The fourth step is hanging about with bad company. He sits among the high priest’s servants and tries to hide who he is. The last step is the result of all that has gone before. He is overwhelmed with fear and plunges deep into sin, denying his beloved Master three times. The denial is only the sin in him coming to a head. Beware of any sin, no matter how small it seems. The Christian who keeps his heart carefully in little things will be kept from great falls.

Peter’s fall also teaches us how very far into sin a believer can go. Peter has enjoyed greater spiritual privileges than most men, but he denies Christ. The best Christian is still a poor weak creature who has a huge ability to sin. There is no sin into which we may not fall, if we don’t watch and pray, and if the grace of God does not hold us up. Let us not presume, but remember that “There but for the grace of God go I”.

Peter’s fall also teaches us the infinite mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. Surrounded by bloodthirsty and insulting enemies, looking ahead to an unjust trial, and a painful death, the Lord Jesus yet finds time to think kindly of His poor sinful disciple. He wants Peter to know that He has not forgotten him. Sorrowfully no doubt, but not angrily, He turns and looks at Peter. It is a sermon Peter never forgets. And Christ’s mercy makes Peter realise his sin and cry tears of true repentance. Such is God’s love for us.

Questions

  1. Why was Peter in danger of sinning long before he betrayed Christ?
  2. How did Christ show mercy to Peter?

Prayer Points

  1. Pray for the preaching and hearing of God’s Word tomorrow.
  2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
  3. Pray for family matters.