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Christian Growth
and the Apostle Peter
The apostle Peter had humble beginnings as a follower of
Christ. Introduced to the Lord by his brother (John 1:40-42), Peter
embarked on a three year quest that would change his life, as well as impact
the history of Christianity and the world. But it started from humble
beginnings.
Luke records his call to discipleship in the first
eleven verses of Chapter Five. On Simon’s (Peter’s) fishing boat,
Jesus instructed that the nets be cast for a catch. Peter’s skepticism
was overcome by obedience. After a night of fish-less efforts, at
the word of the Lord the nets were so full they were breaking. Peter
realized the Lord’s power and admitted his rather humble position.
“Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” He then left everything
and followed Jesus.
Learning from the Master proved challenging for
impetuous Peter. Eager to walk on water with the Lord, he soon had
to learn a lesson in faith and complete dependence (Matthew 14:22-33).
Even after confessing Jesus as the Son of God (Matthew 16:13-19), he had
so much more to learn about Christ’s mission. He, in error, rebuked
Jesus for his self-sacrificing prediction of death (Matthew 16:21-23).
He wanted to equally honor Moses, Elijah and Christ (Matthew 17:1-13).
He slept while Jesus prayed in agony (Matthew 26:36-46), then fought in
a way Jesus did not intend to fight (John 18:10-11). Appropriately rebuked
on all of these occasions, Peter learned that learning can be painful.
Still, he boasted of his undying allegiance, then repeatedly denied association
with the Lord (Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75). The crowing of the rooster
and the look from his Divine Friend cut him to the core of the soul
(Luke 22:60-62).
Peter, though, was not one to give up (as Judas,
who hanged himself [Matthew 27:3-5]). Following a post-resurrection
restoration talk with Jesus (John 21:15-19), Peter got about the business
of boldly proclaiming the risen Lord’s message (Acts 3-10). Never
afraid to charge even authorities with their wrongs, (Acts 2:23,36; 3:14,15;
5:29-32), he no longer constantly wavered in faith. His impetuousness
was now directed toward on the spot defenses of Christianity (Acts 2, 3,
10). Although not perfect (Galatians 2:11-21), he had grown to become
the “rock” Jesus said he would (John 1:40-42).
The drama of Peter’s life is singular, but his growth
pattern indicative of so many. Introduced by family and friends to
the Lord’s teachings, so many overcome faithlessness and faults to grow
into great servants of the Master. It starts with humility, though,
and a willingness to learn. May we together humbly obey the Savior’s
will.
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