IN A STATE OF DENIAL

JOHN 18:15–18

Then the servant girl who kept the door said to Peter, “You are not also one of this Man’s disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not”

(John 18:17).

In yesterday’s study, we learned how Jesus faced injustice from the Sanhedrin on the night of His arrest, and in doing so fulfilled prophecy that the Redeemer would bear the burden of iniquity not only on the cross but in the all the events that led up to it. Today, we see another dimension to that burden which Jesus carried. This time it is in the form of abandonment. Peter, who had so valiantly declared his faithfulness, denied his Lord, and not to a powerful official but to a servant girl.

We assume the mysterious disciple in this account is John himself. It is notable that when all the other disciples fled, two rallied to follow Jesus. They followed Him right up to the home of the high priest where Jesus would be so unjustly treated. But only John had free admittance into the house because somehow he had acquaintance with the high priest’s household. Meanwhile, Peter waited outside until John arranged for him to enter. It is significant that after Peter entered the courtyard, he did not follow John to the hearing hall. He might have been afraid because he had, after all, been the one who had cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant. One might wonder whether Peter would have denied his Lord if he had not been alone. Sometimes we bear up under temptation when we have others with us for support. But, nevertheless, Peter was left alone in the courtyard and to his own folly.

The servant girl must have had her suspicions for she studied Peter for a long time (Luke 22:56). His furtive movements and sidelong glances probably gave him away. Curious, she approached him and, possibly, in an accusing and unfriendly voice, asked him that fateful question. It took Peter by surprise and exposed his fears. As a result, he blurted out his first denial.

Peter allowed his fears to overcome his faith. This is often the case with those who are prideful and weak. It is not obvious rebellion that causes them to deny Christ, but a fear of man. They are full of resolution and zeal when there is no threat, as Peter was under the protection of his Master. But when left alone, when fears are magnified, denial comes swiftly. If Peter had only heeded his Master’s warning, he might not have fallen so quickly and easily.

CORAM DEO

Isaiah 37–38

Philippians 3

When are you most easily tempted? Is it when you are alone, or when you are somewhere you don’t need to be or with someone you shouldn’t be with? For the next few days, make a chart to keep track of those times when you are most tempted. Observe any patterns so you can avoid tempting situations.

For further study: Matt. 26:69–70 • Mark 14:66–68 • Luke 22:55–57

wednesday

october