Poor Peter!

I do not mean this in a disrespectful or piteous manner.  Actually, I empathize and sympathize with him. Peter truly meant to lay down his life and freely give it to Christ.  Jesus told him he would deny him 3 times before the cock crows. Did Jesus do this to make Peter feel more guilt or to inspire him against the denial? Guilt comes from hell so not that. Jesus did not get in the way of his father's plan so the latter can't be. So why? If you know Jesus, there can only be one reason.  Peter was going to do what he was going to do.  Christ knew this and he also knew that this would devastate Peter afterwards and wear on Peter for years. Peter knowing that Christ knew beforehand made his redemption more complete. Because if the denial was known beforehand; therefore, the forgiveness and grace were known beforehand.  When Peter realized this, he could let go of the burden of the denial.

Sooooo, have you ever denied Christ?  Be honest.  I have.  More than 3 times. Actually, every time I willfully sin, I deny him. Do I feel awful.  Yes. Honestly, I am spared the pain Peter felt.  I never walked and talked with him while he dwelt on earth.  I never looked into his eyes. Peter felt more acutely, his denial than I could ever feel. Imagine how you would feel after denying him and then looking at him hanging on that cross. Granted, Peter did not fully realize who he was until after the resurrection and so he was spared the conviction of the Holy Spirit until after the Pentecost. I still think it would be harder on me having known him as Peter did and deny him than the denials I have done now.

Peter was healed.  Christ forgave him just as he has forgiven me. So can he and will he forgive you?  Ask him and find out.

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