Excellent A good example of growing spiritually In Praise of Peter by Deniz22

How often Peter is made the buffoon in sermons! I've done so myself. This is my apology to this wonderful Apostle of Jesus Christ. It's also my re-evaluation of this foundation stone of the church, who gave his life and death to the Lord. And I hope it will be an encouragment to all who seek to know and follow Christ, who loves us and died for us. Here's 6 points of light in Peter's growth in grace: 1. He knew Christ was the only One who had the answers because He is God's Son. ("But Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.") John 6:68-69 NKJV 2. Peter could and did take a harsh public correction from Christ without breaking ranks or becoming bitter! (But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men."   Matthew 16:23 -NKJV 3. Peter looked for reward from Christ for his service. Some are squeamish about this subject, but Christ answered in a forthright manner which connotes His approval. In the parable of the unjust steward, Christ teaches us to prepare for a rewarded future, not just a future. (Then Peter answered and said to Him, "See, we have left all and followed You. Therefore what shall we have?" So Jesus said to them, "Assuredly I say to you, that in the regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.) Matthew 19:27-28 NKJV 4. Peter received counsel from Christ about his undreamed public failure before it happened. (And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.") Luke 22:31-32 NKJV 5. Peter received a personal word of encouragement from Jesus when he was uncertain and hurting from his failure to follow faithfully. (But go, tell His disciples--and Peter--that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.") Mark 16:7 NKJV  6. Peter saw the fulfillment of Christ's prophetic call on his life.   Prophesy:   (For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.") Luke 5:10 NKJV Fullfilment:The result of Peter's great sermon at Penticost: (Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.) Acts 2:41 NKJV                                               Recognized Author Notes A personal Word from Peter to all of us who struggle to follow Christ: 13 Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; 15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy."

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