Last week we began to explore the last teaching of Jesus (John 13:31 – John 16:33), His final farewell teaching with the eleven disciples. After commanding the disciples to love one another just as He has loved them (visually in washing their feet), Peter reacts to the Lord’s announced departure. Peter’s passion cannot be denied; however, his motivation was suspect. Jesus commanded His followers to love one another, yet Peter declared supreme love for Jesus. Clearly, the impulsive disciple felt ready to defend his Lord, but where was his obedience to Jesus fulfilling His role as Savior? Jesus leaves the customized lesson on love and obedience toward Peter for another time (John 21:15–22). For now, He stated the cutting truth that Peter’s love was just as fickle as his zeal. The battle Jesus envisioned cannot be fought with a sword. He wanted soldiers wielding a sword of truth, obedient to the end and united in unselfish love.
Today we continue to learn about ourselves as we see Jesus’ interaction with Peter. We learn rich lessons on our own misguided motives and half-hearted devotion even though we all talk a good game. Thankfully, all the weaknesses that Peter puts on display, Jesus accounts for as the all-sufficient Savior for the world.
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