What can we learn from Peter's actions about seeking truth in Scripture? The Setting: Resurrection Morning “Peter got up and ran to the tomb. Bending down, he saw only the linen cloths. Then he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.” (Luke 24:12) Peter’s Swift Response: Truth Matters Now • He “got up and ran.” • Truth about Jesus’ resurrection was urgent, worth immediate action. • Waiting for second-hand confirmation was not enough. Running to the Tomb: Pursuing Firsthand Evidence • Peter refuses passive doubt; he pursues facts. • John 20:3-8 records the same eagerness—both Peter and John sprint. • Real faith is never afraid of evidence; it welcomes verification (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Stooping to Look: Humble Examination • “Bending down” pictures humility—Peter lowers himself to see clearly. • James 1:21 calls us to “receive with meekness the implanted word.” • Bowing before Scripture’s testimony, not standing over it, brings clarity. Seeing Only Linen Cloths: Letting Scripture Speak for Itself • Empty burial clothes shout resurrection truth louder than assumptions. • Isaiah 55:11—God’s word accomplishes what He sends it to do; evidence in God’s providence confirms His word. Leaving in Wonder: Honest Reflection Fuels Growing Faith • Peter “went away, wondering to himself.” • Genuine seekers ponder; faith grows through meditation (Psalm 1:2). • Soon God rewards that wonder with sight—Peter will meet the risen Christ (Luke 24:34). A Pattern for Our Bible Study Habits 1. Act promptly—open the text when questions arise. 2. Go straight to the source—read the passage yourself before commentaries. 3. Approach low—pray for teachability, setting aside preconceived ideas. 4. Observe carefully—notice details (linen cloths!) that anchor doctrine. 5. Reflect deeply—allow time for Scripture to sink in. 6. Expect encounter—Christ meets those who seek Him in His word. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Acts 17:11—Bereans “received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures daily.” • 2 Timothy 3:16—All Scripture is God-breathed; therefore, worth the run, the stoop, the wonder. • 2 Peter 1:16—Years later Peter testifies, “We did not follow cleverly devised myths,” showing lifelong commitment to verified truth. Putting It into Practice • Set aside a specific time today to “run” to the passage you’re curious about. • Read it aloud, slowly “bending down” to notice each phrase. • Jot down observations; let them lead you to worshipful wonder. |
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