What fears might cause you to deny Jesus like Peter in John 18:17? Setting the Scene “Then the servant girl keeping the door said to Peter, ‘You are not one of this man’s disciples as well, are you?’ ‘I am not,’ he said.” (John 18:17) Possible Fears Behind Peter’s Denial • Fear of physical harm – Jesus had just been arrested (John 18:12). Soldiers were nearby, swords drawn. – Peter had witnessed how quickly violence could erupt (John 18:10–11). • Fear of legal consequences – Association with Jesus now looked like a crime (John 18:31). – Roman and Jewish authorities both threatened severe punishment (Acts 4:17–18). • Fear of social rejection – He was surrounded by servants and officials loyal to the high priest (John 18:15–16). – John 12:42-43 shows many “loved praise from men more than praise from God.” • Fear of disappointment or failure – Moments earlier he had vowed never to fall away (Matthew 26:33-35). – Admitting discipleship might expose his own weakness after fleeing in the garden. • Fear of uncertainty – Jesus, the one who always led, now stood bound and silent (Isaiah 53:7). – Peter did not know how the story would end; doubt clouded courage. • Fear of spiritual opposition – Jesus had warned, “Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat” (Luke 22:31-32). – Spiritual attack often masquerades as sudden, overpowering dread (Ephesians 6:12). • Fear of being alone – He had slipped into the courtyard without the other ten (Mark 14:50). – Isolation amplifies every other fear (Ecclesiastes 4:10). How the Same Fears Show Up Today • Safety concerns: “If I speak up, I might lose my job, reputation, or even freedom.” • Legal or professional pressures: policies that punish biblical convictions. • Social stigma: ridicule from friends, family, or online communities. • Fear of imperfection: “I can’t represent Christ perfectly, so better to stay quiet.” • Uncertainty about outcomes: not knowing how a conversation or confession will end. • Spiritual intimidation: the enemy whispers, “Stay silent; it isn’t worth it.” • Loneliness: feeling like the only believer in the room. Scriptural Antidotes to Fear • Matthew 10:28 — “Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 — “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Psalm 56:3-4 — “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.” • 1 John 4:18 — “Perfect love drives out fear.” • Hebrews 13:6 — “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” Encouragement for Today • Remember Jesus’ sovereignty: He predicted Peter’s denial and still restored him (John 21:15-17). • Rely on the Holy Spirit: boldness comes from His filling, not human resolve (Acts 4:31). • Anchor in truth: Scripture arms us against lies that fuel fear (Ephesians 6:17). • Stay connected: fellowship with believers fortifies courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). |
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