Beyond the Weekend

August 8 | Recommissioning

August 8, 2019

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. Matthew 26:35

Read: Matthew 26:31-35

Listen: Matthew 26

TODAY’S MESSAGE

Peter is at the lowest point in his life. The night before Jesus died, his disciples vowed to stay with him unto death. Peter was the most adamant, but Jesus predicted he would deny him before the rooster crowed. That’s exactly what happened. Peter bitterly cried when he realized how completely he had failed.

Then the resurrected Jesus does an amazing thing. He demonstrates his forgiveness to his disciples by preparing and serving them breakfast (John 21:1-17). Turning to Peter, he does the unthinkable. Three times (one time for each denial) Jesus declares his love and forgiveness by calling Peter back on the team to “feed his sheep.” He doesn’t merely tell him that he’s forgiven. He says, “I have a job for you to do. We are still friends and I need you.”

Although Jesus reminds Peter of his three denials, Jesus encourages Peter by calling him back into the game. It is a recommissioning and a huge opportunity. Peter can demonstrate his love for Jesus by taking care of Jesus’ other children. The Church is Jesus’ flock, and he calls all of his followers to care for his other children. That includes us.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Maybe, like Peter, you need to get back into the game. Or, into the game for the first time.  Pray today and ask God where he can use you with your God-given abilities to “feed his sheep.” If you would like to start a conversation about what this means, send an email to btw@adabible.org.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

 

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