Read Matthew 26:69-75
How Quick Am I To Deny Jesus?
As Peter sat in the courtyard during the trial of Jesus, three different people approached him and accused him of being a follower of Jesus. By now, Peter has witnessed Jesus being brutally beaten by his accusers. So I’m sure fear of persecution was a driving reason influencing Peter to deny knowing Jesus.
After Peter denied Jesus the first time, he isolated himself from the crowd and stood by the gateway, the entrance of the courtyard. After being accused two more times by two other people, Peter’s response became worse:
1. His denial became more adamant and filled with an increase of anger and hate. He swore and cursed and yelled his response of NOT KNOWING JESUS!!!
2. Plus, eventually he left the premises, and wept for denying Jesus three times.
I’m impressed with Peter. He was a follower of Jesus for 3 years and invested 3 years of his life to be discipled by the Lord. He learned and grew SO MUCH! But he had a breaking point, fear was a factor. The fear of persecution came upon him and he denied knowing Jesus. Plus he isolated himself from others.
Sadly, this happens more than we wish it did with Christians. There are people who have grown up in Christian homes, who come to know the Lord, and study, learn, and know the Scriptures. But when persecution comes, they’re quick to deny Jesus. Just a fear of someone saying, “Oh, you’re one of those stupid Christians!” is enough to destroy some people so they isolate themselves from Jesus, from the bible, and from church. They go from being a follower of Jesus to a follower of the ways of the world. They’d rather be accepted by their peers than be ridiculed by their peers.
I’m not judging! I’m as guilty as the next person. Fear is a real thing. I have often prayed to God, “Lord, give me Your Grace and strength to stand up to persecution even if it means the worst physical persecution.” Would I allow myself to be burned at the stake? I would be afraid. But I want to be faithful.
Lord, help me not deny you, nor isolate myself from you, your word, your church, or my Christian friends. Help me to be faithful to the end. And if I do deny you, help me to weep as Peter did resulting in repentance and restoration with you. Amen! “
