May 8, 2023
With all his contradictions and imperfections, the disciple Peter shows what Jesus can do with flawed disciples. Why do Christian leaders like Peter fall, and how are they restored? Colin Smith—pastor, author, and teacher on the program Open the Bible—helps pastors recognize how Peter fell into pride and shares ways to prevent similar disasters. Though our spirits may be willing, we should not underestimate the weakness of our flesh—though if we do give way to temptation, there is a Savior who is willing to forgive and able to restore.
36Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” yJesus answered him, “Where I am going zyou cannot follow me now, abut you will follow afterward.” 37bPeter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” 38Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, cthe rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.