When we open the Bible, it’s not just about what we’re learning, but who we’re learning it from. 

Take, for example, the letter of 1 Peter. It was written by Peter the apostle (of course), who walked and talked with Jesus. 

But let’s notice six details about his life. He was passionate, imperfect, rebellious, reconciled, suffering and saved.

First, he was passionate. In John 14:37 when Jesus was speaking about leaving, he exclaimed: “I will lay down my life for you.” 

Second, he was imperfect. After Jesus explained that he was to suffer and die for his people, Peter acted as if he knew better than Jesus did: “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you” (Matthew 16:22).

Third, he was rebellious. In Jesus’ dark hour of betrayal, Peter denied him three times (Luke 22:61).

Fourth, he was reconciled. After the resurrection, and despite Peter’s previous denials, Jesus commissioned him to take care of his people after he was gone: “Feed my sheep” (John 21:17).

Fifth, he suffered. After years of spreading the message of Jesus, he too was crucified in Rome. One ancient source (although debated) even says he was crucified upside down because he didn’t feel worthy enough to be killed in the same way as his Master.

Sixth, he was saved. He made the good confession: “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Matthew 16:16). Today, he lives in the peace and joy of paradise.

So, why am I telling you all of this? Because if you have ever felt as if you are any of these things, you are in good company—Peter’s! 

Faith is about following Jesus. He’s leading, you’re following—not the other way around. Trust in him, keep going, and don’t think you’ve been disqualified just because things have not always gone as planned. 

The road is sometimes rocky, but it’s worth it. Just as Peter. 

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Notes:

-Blog and podcast episode: “Why I think we should say The Lord’s Prayer every day.” Click here, or listen on ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ wherever you subscribe (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.)

-“From ‘Why Me?’ to ‘How Me?’” Sermon. Click here.

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.