Denial Predicted
Matthew 26:31-35 finds Jesus with His disciples on the way to the Garden of Gethsemane—we get to listen in. The Lord predicts the trial which both He and His disciples are about to experience. Misplaced self-confidence,
like Peter’s, is the first step toward a big fall spiritually. Those who think they are the most secure, are actually the least safe. And God often lets them be humbled in their pride. First, Jesus gave a prophecy and a promise—“All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night … but after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.” (vv. 31-32) They would all be so frightened because of what happens to Jesus that they would not have the courage to stand with Him, but would all desert Him. We need to be prepared for sudden trials, which can come to full force in a moment’s notice. Know that Jesus is ready to comfort after you go through a difficult time. Second, Jesus’ words were rejected by Peter—“Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never … Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” (vv. 33-34) It is amazing how far off Peter really was. He imagined that in the hour of temptation he would come out of it better than any of them, and Jesus tells him that he will come out worse. We are so unaware of what is just around the corner for us in this life. Be prepared. Third, Jesus’ words were rejected by all the disciples—“Peter said to Him, ‘Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!’ And so said all the disciples.” (v. 35) What Peter said, the rest of the disciples bought into also. We need to always be alert to the enemy’s traps of temptation: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith …” (1 Peter 5:8-9)
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.
