Daily Bible Reading Tuesday 21st January 2020

by William Moody

Luke 22:31–34

Jesus Foretells Peter’s Denial

31 “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you,¹ that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” 33 Peter² said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” 34 Jesus³ said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.”

Footnotes

[1] 22:31 The Greek word for you (twice in this verse) is plural; in verse 32, all four instances are singular
[2] 22:33 Greek He
[3] 22:34 Greek He

(ESV)

The old saying, ‘Pride comes before a fall’ is very true for Peter. Peter was adamant that he will never deny Jesus (v33). His confidence was in himself when he needed to realise that it is only the grace of God that could keep him from falling.

Never say you would never do this or that sin, rather we should say ‘with God’s grace I will never do that’.

In Peter’s failings, there is a warning for us all, but there is also wonderful comfort (v31-32). The fact that there is a Saviour who prays for His people as they’re tempted is a great encouragement. We once more see the graciousness and faithfulness of Christ to His weak followers.

Jesus knows the worse about His people (v34) and still He loves and cares for us. We don’t have to earn Jesus’ love but we must live in the light of it. Pray that Christ’s love will empower and guide your life.

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®),
copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
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