How can we apply Peter's example of obedience in John 21:19? Setting the Scene John 21:19—“Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. After this, He said to him, ‘Follow Me.’” In the warmth of a charcoal fire on the Galilean shore, the risen Lord restores the disciple who had denied Him, then calls Peter to a future of costly obedience. Peter’s Model of Obedience at a Glance • He listens to Christ’s voice. • He accepts a hard assignment. • He responds immediately—no debate, no delay. • He keeps following, even when the path leads to suffering. Obedience Begins with Listening • Peter’s first step is simply hearing Jesus’ two-word command: “Follow Me.” • Romans 10:17—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Practical take-away: set aside daily, unrushed time in Scripture so His voice is the loudest in the room. Obedience Persists Beyond Failure • Peter’s denial (John 18:25-27) had not disqualified him. Jesus restores, then re-commissions. • Micah 7:8—“Though I have fallen, I will rise.” • Practical take-away: confess sin quickly, receive Christ’s forgiveness, and get back in the race. Obedience Glorifies God Even in Suffering • The verse foretells martyrdom; obedience may cost everything. • 1 Peter 4:16—“If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God.” • Philippians 1:20—Paul longs that “Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.” • Practical take-away: expect opposition; choose to value God’s glory above personal ease. Obedience Requires Single-Minded Focus • When Peter asks about John (John 21:21-22), Jesus replies, “What is that to you? You follow Me!” • Hebrews 12:1-2—fix eyes on Jesus, not on others’ lanes. • Practical take-away: resist comparison; obey the specific calling God places before you. Obedience Is Lifelong • “Follow” is present imperative—keep on following. • 2 Timothy 4:7—Paul finishes his course; so did Peter. • Practical take-away: build endurance by daily, small acts of faithfulness that add up over the decades. Putting It into Practice Today • Prioritize Scripture: schedule non-negotiable Bible time each morning. • Respond promptly: turn insights into immediate action—text an apology, give, serve. • Accept hardship: thank God for trials as opportunities to magnify Him. • Stay in your lane: celebrate others’ victories while focusing on your assignment. • Endure: remind yourself often that the goal is not comfort but Christ’s glory. |
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