BIBLE READING: LEVITICUS 14, MATTHEW 26:51-75
“But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s place, and went in and sat with the servants, to see the end” Matthew 26:58 (KJV)
Before now, Jesus had warned Peter of the desire and plan of satan to undo his faith. Instead of listening to the master and relying on him for victory, Peter was so full of self. He relied on himself when other disciples fled, Peter followed. They all could not commit to prayer despite the master’s warning of the need to tarry in prayer so as not to be overcome by temptation.
Here, observe that Peter’s following of Jesus was distanced. “Peter followed him afar off”. He desired to follow to see the end of the matter but desire is not enough. Desires should be accompanied by faith actions.
Notice the next step of backsliding. “Peter sat without (outside the palace)”. He could not go in with the master. Again he began to warm himself in the fire set by the people. He sat with them, not with Jesus. He became vulnerable to failure because of wrong association and weakened followership.
The next was that Peter denied the master and swore that he never knew Jesus. Faith in Jesus must always be backed by corresponding action to produce victory.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to rely on You and not on myself.
Rev. Vincent Diolu