The faith story of the Apostle Peter is fascinating. It appears it took several months before he really committed to Christ. This salty fisherman, who became a rock in the church, had his fair share of ups and downs. Often times he spoke without thinking, he could be impulsive, and emotional. However, when it came time to speak up about the identity of Jesus, he is a stand up guy! “Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:16

He confesses Jesus is the Messiah and within a few verses he pulls Jesus aside and rebukes Jesus, I believe, with the intention to protect Jesus from those who want to kill him. Jesus looks at him, and says, “Get awash from me, Satan! You are a dangerous trap to me. You are seeing things from merely from a human point of view, not from God’s” Matthew 16:22-23

I love his story, he walks on water and sinks, he pulls a sword and attacks a soldier when the disciples were hopelessly outnumbered, Jesus stops him from fighting, and before the evening is over he denies knowing Jesus, three times.

On the morning of the resurrection, Peter rushes into the empty tomb, which a Jewish man wouldn’t do, unless perhaps, he was overcome with hope and love. Which I believe was what produced that bold disregard for the Law.

Jesus will, restore Peter and his faith, leading him through a painful conversation.

You know the rest of the story, Peter ultimately becomes a passionate follower of Christ. Do you know why? Let’s talk tomorrow night.

Peace.