What can we learn from Peter's transformation after witnessing the risen Christ? The Moment that Changed Everything—1 Corinthians 15:5 “and that He appeared to Cephas and then to the Twelve.” Jesus’ private meeting with Peter (Cephas) was the turning point that turned a shattered disciple into a steadfast pillar of the early church. Peter’s Pre-Resurrection Struggle • Self-confidence: “Even if all fall away on account of You, I never will.” (Matthew 26:33) • Sleep instead of prayer in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:40) • Sword-swinging impulse control (John 18:10) • Triple denial under pressure, capped by bitter weeping when “the Lord turned and looked at Peter.” (Luke 22:61-62) The Personal Encounter with the Living Christ • Private restoration: Though Scripture gives no details beyond 1 Corinthians 15:5, the silence speaks of intimate, gracious dealing. • Public affirmation: “Simon son of John, do you love Me? … Feed My sheep.” (John 21:15-17) – Three affirmations match three denials. – The risen Lord re-commissions the repentant disciple. Restored and Commissioned • Forgiveness led to fresh purpose—not merely “pardoned,” but entrusted with others’ souls. • Shepherd’s calling: “Tend My sheep.” (John 21:16) • Prophetic glimpse of faithfulness to the end (John 21:18-19). Bold Witness Powered by the Holy Spirit • Pentecost sermon: “God has raised this Jesus to life, to which we are all witnesses.” (Acts 2:32) – Fear replaced by fearless proclamation; 3,000 saved. • Healing the lame man: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!” (Acts 3:6) • Confronting authorities: “There is salvation in no one else.” (Acts 4:12) • Unlearned fishermen “recognized … as having been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13) Lessons for Us Today • Personal encounter with the risen Christ transforms shame into courage. • Genuine repentance is met with complete restoration. • The resurrection validates our message; we speak because we know He lives. • Christ entrusts imperfect people with His mission. • Resurrection power, conveyed through the Holy Spirit, enables bold obedience. Anchored in Living Hope “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3) Peter’s pen, once gripped by guilt, now writes of unshakable hope—hope secured the moment the risen Savior called him by name. |
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