
INTRODUCTION
This year we are taking three weeks to focus on the final three days of Jesus’ life on earth. Each of those days hold so many specific truths about Jesus for us to learn. We will look at Jesus in those three days through the lens of Peter. Peter was imperfect (understatement). Peter was not a likely choice to be a disciple (understatement). Peter was not very good at heeding specific warnings (understatement). Peter was not defined by his history, his credibility, his dependability, or his achievements (all understatements). We can learn a lot from Peter. Yep, you’ve got it…understatement. Let’s learn…
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
For most of us Plan A is a distant memory. The current plan you are working may have a letter that is far back in the alphabet. Or, perhaps you are through your first round of letters and you are now on Plan QQ. Regardless, you are working a plan of some sort. You have lots of adjustments and failures behind you. Which of your past plans is the hardest for you to leave behind?
Peter had a plan that was working fine. He was a good fisherman and all was good. What good areas in your life have a hold on you that could prevent you from accepting an offer to take an uncomfortable (and possibly illogical) step in obedience?
It is always wise to seek confirmation from the Holy Spirit and godly counsel before making major steps. What is something you think Jesus may be nudging you to consider in terms of a step? (This does not need to involve leaving all you know to follow Him)
Peter watched Judas betray Jesus. Peter was certainly relieved to find out that he was not the one to betray Jesus. What are mistakes you have seen others make that you, perhaps, have been relieved it was not you, but you have also missed the opportunity to learn from that mistake. Don’t mention names or specifics, but what can you learn from those situations?
Peter was then warned he would also deny Jesus. Peter was passionate and fierce in his refusal to believe he would do that. But he did. What is something you are lying to yourself about in terms of a weakness or tendency that is likely to happen if you are not honest with yourself about that area? What is the wise thing to do about that areas?
Peter was warned that he would deny Jesus three times. Once we start in a spiral of sin it is very hard to stop that spiral, but not impossible. Is there a trend (or spiral) in your life that needs attention? Yes/No. It is likely not wise to discuss this, but please make a commitment to do what is best with that situation.
In looking at Peter’s story what would you advise him to do after his first denial (knowing he had been warned he would do it two more times)? How does can that advice you have for him be applied to your own life?
When Jesus is involved failures are not fatal. How can you improve in giving yourself grace for your failures? How can you improve in inspiring others to accept grace for their mess-ups?
Friday was a rough day (massive understatement), but it was not the end of the story. You may be in a Friday (and it may be lasting far longer than 24 hours). What will help you hang on to continue on?
MOVING FORWARD
The hardest person to forgive is often ourself. This is especially true if we knew better, if we were warned, or if our choices have hurt those we love most. Accepting forgiveness is not something we do because we deserve it. It is something we do because it takes humility and faith. We cannot earn forgiveness. We must seek it and accept it. Peter’s life had some severe bumps and those were due to his own choices. But, just like the story of Jesus, Friday happened but it was not the end. Peter had far better days ahead. You do too! But Peter kept going and kept following Jesus. We need to do the same- keep going, keep following, and keep learning. Onward!