Thoughts on the Gospel of John (183) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Now Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. Therefore they said to him, you are not also one of His disciples, are you? He denied it and said, I am not! One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of him whose ear Peter cut off, said, did I not see you in the garden with Him? Peter then denied again; and immediately a rooster crowed.
John 18:25–27

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (183)
Peter warms himself at the charcoal fire. The enemies of Jesus who lit it are also there. So, Peter is in bad company. He wants to see how the capture of his Lord will turn out. But he overestimates himself and therefore behaves recklessly.

Whoever sits down at the “fire of coals” of this world has to put up with questions. These questions can actually offer an opportunity for a clear testimony for the Lord, but here they lead to the opposite, because the believer in the wrong place has no strength to take a clear stand. So, Peter goes downhill step by step. Three attempts are made by the enemy, and each time comes Peter’s denial. This fiery disciple who loves his Lord fails miserably.

Anyone who has come to know himself a little will never claim that such a thing cannot happen to him. Even if we love the Lord Jesus – and we are serious about it – we are not saved from denying Him as long as we think much of ourselves and seek the approval of people. Even great Bible knowledge, the best of intentions and much life experience will not keep us from giving in to ugly desires when temptation comes, or from becoming angry and taking revenge when offensive attacks come. We can only prevent this by fleeing into prayer. We are strong only in the Lord and in His grace, as He Himself said, “Without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today’s reading: Micah 7:1-20 · Proverbs 29:20-27