Self-Preservation

Self-Preservation

There are a couple of things at work in this passage. I will tackle one and give the other to you for homework. The homework: Was there a correlation between Jesus going off to pray three times and Peter denying Christ three times?

The one I will tackle: Notice how definitively Peter responds to Jesus’ claim that all the disciples would abandon Him. He sounds certain that he would not abandon Jesus in His hour of need. 

Peter was well meaning, but ultimately he did exactly what Jesus said he would do. Why is that? Why did Peter disown Jesus three times?

I believe we will have to wait until heaven to get the exact answer, however I believe it was good old fashioned self-preserving fear. In your life, how many times have you avoided the truth to “keep yourself out of trouble?” Before you call Peter out of his name for going back on his word, remember that you have the same capacity to seek self-preservation in the same way he did. 

We may be well meaning in our actions, but we also must choose honor over self-preservation. Here’s today’s Bible verse. Enjoy. 

Matthew 26:32-35

32 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

33 Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.”

34 “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”

35 But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.

Today’s Readings:

Matthew 26:14-46; Proverbs 8:14-26