Mark 14:26-31 (CLICK HERE FOR BIBLE VERSES)
Hi GAMErs,
Today’s passage is Mark 14:26-31. With an open mind and a humble heart, read this passage and see what sticks out to you in this passage. Is there a verse, a phrase, or a lesson you think the Holy Spirit may be highlighting for you in this passage? After you’ve thought about the passage yourself a bit, read the GAME sharing below. Let’s go!
Mark 14:26-31 (NIV)
26 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
27 “You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written: “‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’
28 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”
29 Peter declared, “Even if all fall away, I will not.”
30 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “today–yes, tonight–before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.”
31 But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same.
On verses 26-31: Peter was so sure and passionate about his commitment to Jesus that he acted as if nothing could possibly shake him. Not even Jesus’ Scripture-based prophecy that all the disciples would fall away (v27) seemed to affect Peter’s confidence that he would remain faithful to Jesus till the end. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you”, Peter says in verse 31. But that was more Peter’s own pride speaking. Peter underestimated his own weakness and how on his own, without Jesus’ help, he didn’t stand a chance of hanging onto his faith. Peter wasn’t the only disciple who made this mistake. All the other disciples made the same mistake. Peter was just the most vocal about it.
What can we learn from this? Be careful not to overestimate your own faith, commitment or ability. No matter how strong we think we are spiritually or otherwise, the fact is that without the grace and mercy of God none of us could stand. So let the realization of that fact keep us humble before God and people.
I’m also struck by verse 28 where Jesus says to his disciples, “But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Jesus is risen, and He is our shepherd and leader who goes ahead of us. As you think about the future, know that Jesus has already gone ahead of you, and there’s no place you will ever be where Jesus is not already. Life may sometimes feel scary and uncertain, but if you got Jesus, you’re going to be okay.
Jesus, You’re the Only truly strong one. The rest of us are just pretenders compared to You, and any strength we have is only because You supply it. Thank You Jesus that despite all the mistakes I make or could make, Your mercy is greater still. And thank You for being our shepherd and leader who goes ahead of us. In Jesus’ name, AMEN!
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