DEVELOPMENT OF PETER
A. Initial Contact
1. John 1:40-42
a. What were Jesus’ first impressions of Peter? Andrew had spent time with Jesus and the first person he tells is Simon – “We have found the Messiah.” Simon meets Jesus and the first thing out of Jesus’ mouth is, “Now you will be called Cephas,” or “Rock,” translated Peter. Prophetic, gave the name to Simon for Simon to live up to that name. (Saw potential)
b. How should we as spiritual leaders view or observe people? Keep an eye open, “bleppo,” to what God is doing in a person’s life. Encourage those persons as you listen to their hearts, which means you have to ask questions as to what makes them happy, cry, or get excited about. You need to observe how they interact with people, what their strengths are, etc.
2. Matthew 4:18-20 (Mark
How do you challenge someone to something greater than they currently are pursuing, just like Jesus challenged Peter and Andrew to fish for men rather than fish?
Know the person’s strengths and weaknesses. Get to know how they were created (made). You may have to disciple (mentor) them to help stretch them spiritually, get them out of their comfort zone. Encourage the person to dream big. The person needs to have a heart that wants to get to know God, and again, we may have to nurture that along (massage the heart). The thing is, once Jesus challenged Peter to be a fisher of men, Jesus did not “just pray” for Peter, but invested a great deal of time into Peter. Jesus saw the potential of Peter long before Peter had a clue.
3. Luke 5:1-11 - Simon rowed his boat out for Jesus to speak to the crowds that were beginning to follow Jesus. Then while still in the boat, Jesus instructed Simon to cast out nets even though they had worked all night and caught nothing. But Simon obliged – too many fish were caught, boats were sinking. Simon Peter then said, “I am sinful, go away from me.” Rather Jesus called Peter and the 3 guys (Andrew, John and James) to fish for men. (Challenged Peter to something great, even though Simon knew his sinful state.)
This was perhaps the third encounter with Peter to get him to think beyond what he was used to and comfortable with. Obviously Peter knew Him by now, for in the previous chapter Jesus healed Peter’s mother-in-law. (4:38-39)
a. How did Peter react when Jesus told him to put the nets down one more time (after a long night of unsuccessful fishing)? He had a humble and teachable spirit obedient attitude.
b. Is it surprising – the reaction Peter had when the fish were more than plentiful? Why? Perhaps a bit, but Peter had been with Jesus for a little while and seen his mother-in-law healed, plus now the miracle of all the fish. He knew he was in special company and this is probably one of the things Jesus saw in Peter – his heart. Peter knew Jesus was something special from God and he was not able to measure up to such a man as Jesus.
c. Jesus used sinful people to do His work. Peter realized his sinful state and knew he didn’t belong with Jesus. Jesus saw Peter’s heart before Peter saw his own heart. How do we develop such eyes to see the hearts of people and challenge them to great spiritual opportunities when they most likely are not very spiritually mature yet? (Jesus did it with Peter. He challenged Peter to something great, even though Simon knew his sinful state.) We need to ask God to develop us so we are spiritually alert to what is God is doing, see in whom God is working. That means we intentionally spend time with God, reading the Word and praying, which includes listening, being quiet before God.
B. “Bleppo” - Ask and watch.
1. Mark 13:1-5ff, 32-37 (Matthew 24, 25; Luke 21:5-36)– Mark is the only gospel to name the apostles who asked Jesus about when all the destruction was going to occur. Peter was impulsive, but he also wanted answers to things he didn’t know. He was less inhibited about asking questions, which didn’t always work in his favor. Jesus had just said to look beneath the surface (bleppo) to see what God is doing. The temple was going to be destroyed, and symbolically, Jesus was talking about His own death and resurrection. The temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. and will be destroyed again at end times. With end times, watch the signs, but don’t live solely on those signs. Only the Father knows when the end is.
In this passage, Jesus begins with the discussion of the temple after one disciple was in awe of the massive facilities. He says to basically see beyond the obvious. The whole chapter talks about what would be happening in 70 A.D. with the destruction of the temple, and end times, the Great Tribulation. Jesus says in verse 2, “Do you see (bleppo) all these great buildings?” Do you see what God is doing beneath the surface? That is the definition of “bleppo” – essentially to see what God sees or is doing.
2. So the question is, how do I develop bleppo? - Spend time with Jesus/God, pursue getting to know Him by scripture reading and study, memorize, meditate on passages, work to begin to think as Jesus thought (renew the mind), being obedient to the Spirit’s leading and to the Word, learning at teachable moments.
C. Being with Jesus -The power of observation and being in the field, as learning tools, don’t get enough credit in the teaching world. It is very difficult to measure the amount of learning a person gains by observation and field trips. Experts say that this type of teaching/learning has high retention rates. None is any truer than in Peter’s life. He saw a great deal of ministry occur by just being with Jesus. As Jesus put it, one of the three reasons for selecting the apostles was to spend time with them. Jesus, the master teacher, knew how to teach and make it effective teaching time.
1. Why would Jesus have indicated that one of the three reasons for selecting the 12 apostles was to spend time with them (Mark
2. Peter saw Jesus heal people a fair number of times. Mark
a. What effect did this have on Peter? (Acts 3:1-8; 9:32-41) He had seen these miracles happen with Jesus and he knew Jesus had given the apostles spiritual authority.
b. How did Peter and the other apostles learn to pray? (Luke 11:1-4)
c. What effect did spending time with Jesus have on Peter’s writings? (I Peter1:13-25;
d. How could people have taken note that guys like Peter and John have been with Jesus (Acts
e. How effective would Jesus have been with the likes of Peter, if all He did was “lecture” teaching? What changes will you make in your way of teaching and training people, in light of Jesus’ method with Peter? Peter most likely would have learned less and probably been less confident in his responsibilities that we read about in Acts. Again, Jesus was the master teacher, and we can learn much from His ways of teaching.
D. Teachable Moments
1. Spiritual Dullness – Matthew 15(1-9) 10-20 (Mark 7:1-23) Jesus was talking about clean and unclean; what is inside a person makes him that way, not following all the rituals the Pharisees had set up. Things that come out of a person come from the heart. We need to deal with heart issues and not worry about behavior. As a person thinks, so is the way he will go. Peter spoke up for the others, saying they did not understand what Jesus was trying to tell them. Deal with heart issues, Jesus said, for your behavior stems from your thinking. It is easy to give lip service, show some action, but over time you will see the real person because the heart will be revealed.
a.. What was Jesus teaching about the Pharisees? Honoring, respecting someone simply with words means nothing if it is truly not meant from the heart. Simply going through activities does not indicate a person’s integrity toward another person. The way a person lives day in and day out says what is truly in a person. Deal with heart issues since behavior results from your thinking.
b. Why did Peter and the disciples come and tell Jesus He had offended the Pharisees? Worried yet what others thought of Jesus and concerned about public opinion.
c. Why were Peter and the apostles spiritually dull yet? (They had heard Jesus speak and perform miracles many times over, yet could not figure out the parable.) Could it be they struggled yet with the idea and hope that Jesus’ kingdom would be an earthly one, and dismissed the concept that the Kingdom was actually spiritual? This whole discussion was founded upon the facts that we are spiritual beings and the heart of a person is the issue that needs to be dealt with. Plus, the Holy Spirit had not been sent yet.
2. Transfiguration - Matthew 17:1-13 (Mark 9:2-13; Luke
a. Why did Peter, James and John join Jesus? They were part of the inner circle. This was not the first time that Jesus had just the three of them. Part of His training was a concentrated focus with just the three of them
b. Why did Peter speak up? Was he encouraged by James and John to ask the question? Perhaps in the splendor of the moment, this was Peter’s reaction. He was known for speaking before thinking. It could be, too, they were so frightened by the splendor that Peter, in his nervousness and impulsiveness, blurted out something.
c. What impact, do you feel, hearing God’s voice and statement had on Peter?
3. Who is going to pay the government? Matthew
a. What was Jesus teaching Peter about obeying earthly authorities? As you live in the world, there are taxes and laws that we must obey or face the consequences.
b. What did Jesus teach about His kingdom? Jesus had come to establish a heavenly kingdom that didn’t cost anything to live there. This kingdom was not going to challenge the Roman’s earthly kingdom. There is also something supernatural about His kingdom.
4. Two healings – Matt. 9:18-35 (Mark 5:21-43; Luke 8:40-56) -
The synagogue ruler, Jairus, came to Jesus and begged Jesus to come heal his 12-year-old daughter. On the way, the woman bleeding for many years touched Him and was healed. The servants of Jairus met up with Jesus and Jairus then to inform them, she had died. “Don’t be afraid, just believe,” Jesus said. (Peter had spoken earlier when the woman touched Him and Jesus asked who had done it. Peter’s response was, “So many people are crowding You; many have touched You.” Peter still had low expectations of Jesus, probably thinking Jesus’ question was silly. Yet Jesus knew and wanted this woman to stand up for her faith.) Peter and John were the only disciples who were allowed to follow Jesus to Jairus’ house. Jesus said she was only sleeping, at which people laughed at Him, knowing she was dead. Yet she rose and was healed.
a. On the way to Jairus’ home, a woman touched Him. She was healed and Jesus “wanted to find out.” Why did Peter question Jesus’ question? (Luke 8:45-46) Maybe Peter had low expectations of Jesus, probably thinking Jesus’ question was silly. Yet Jesus knew and wanted this woman to stand up for her faith.
b. What impact do you feel these miracles had on Peter’s faith? Peter saw two situations up close where the faith of one person changed lives, while the world thought it was foolishness. Faith is personal, but the fruit, or lack thereof, comes out. Peter saw what sincere faith did for two families. This probably was building blocks to his confession or Jesus in Matthew 16 (Mark 8 and Luke 9), plus at a later occurrence in Acts (9:32ff).
5. Guess who’s coming for a meal – Matthew 14:13-21 (Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-13). Peter and company saw how Jesus took very little and miraculously fed 15-20,000 people. They saw first-hand Jesus’ power (then Jesus walks on water. No wonder Peter’s faith was high while in the boat). Peter saw Jesus performing miracle after miracle and His teachings backing up who He said He was. Peter had to be convinced this was no ordinary man. Jesus was something special, to say the least.
a. Why did Jesus first tell the apostles to get the huge crowd something to eat? Perhaps to simply realize they in their own power could not make the impossible happen. It is easy to throw up your hands and say nothing can be done, when so often we fail to lay the problem before the Lord and ask Him for guidance and His help.
b. How do you think Peter reacted when he saw the miracle of all that food? His faith grew, he was spiritually high at that moment.
6. Walking on non-frozen water – Matthew 14:22-23 (Mark 6:45-56; John 6:14-21 talk about Jesus walking on the water, but only Matthew’s account has Peter mentioned.) Jesus comes out to the boat and the apostles think they are seeing a ghost. Jesus assures them that it is He. Peter then, perhaps impulsively, says if it is Jesus, tell him to come. He gets out of the boat and starts walking toward Jesus. He sees where he is at and the weather conditions, and begins to sink when Jesus picks him up. He has little faith, according to Jesus, because Peter doubted. Yet no one else was willing to get out of the boat. Most were probably not risk takers. Peter did walk on water. His problem, he took his eyes off Jesus and put them on the surroundings and faltered. “You of little faith – keep looking and trusting Me,” says Jesus.
a. Why did Peter get out of the boat in the first place (it was a long step down over the boat and onto the water)? Impulsiveness; his faith had grown and he had seen Jesus do amazing things. So his faith in Jesus was soaring at that moment. He could have been a risk taker. The thing is, he did get out of the boat. Jesus saw that faith early on.
b. Why did none of the others get out? Lack of faith, not risk takers. Some apostles’ personalities would not allow them to get out.
c. Why did Peter begin to sink? Took eyes off of Jesus and focused on his surroundings; thus, the faith in Jesus began to wane.
d. How do we relate to Peter, or even to the other apostles, in times of faith development? What kind of faith did Peter have after this episode? He had a fair amount o faith in Jesus because he did get out of the boat.
7. How many times did you say I have to forgive? Matthew 18:21-35 - Peter asked how many times do you need to forgive someone; “70 X 7,” was Jesus’ response, because Peter had suggested the perfect number of seven. Jesus meant to forgive as often as need be and not to keep track. If someone is seeking repentance, we need to offer forgiveness. We have been offered forgiveness by the Father, and if we don’t forgive, we set ourselves above Christ’s standard and law of love. Forgiveness is an attitude that develops.
a. Prior to Peter asking Jesus the forgiveness question, Jesus lays out the Biblical process for dealing with personal conflict/disagree-
ments/sin. What is that process?
b. What was Peter attempting to find out from Jesus when he asked how many times does a person need to forgive? If there is a limit to forgiveness; if there is a time you don’t forgive.
c. In the parable, could the first debtor pay back his debt? No.
d. Who had the greater debt, the first or second debtor? First.
e. Why did the master treat the first debtor harshly when the first debtor did not forgive the second debtor’s debt? Because the first
debtor showed no mercy, and how we show mercy and forgiveness is the measure used on us by God.
f. How did Peter’s faith grow as a result of this interaction with Jesus? He saw somewhat how much Jesus was willing to forgive people.
8. What’s in it for us? Matthew 19:16-30 (Mark 10:17-31; Luke 18:18-30) Jesus had just finished talking to the rich young ruler and told him that he would need to be willing to give it all up for the Lord. Holding on to the world (like money) will not allow us to love God totally. Jesus said it is impossible to enter heaven except with God’s help. The rich ruler’s idol was wealth and he could not give that up for God, so he was not loving God with all his heart, etc. Peter, hearing all this, says they had given up everything to follow Jesus and, in Matthew’s version, says – what is in it for us? God will reward as He sees fit in heaven. We need to have the attitude that we are serving God because of our love for Him, not what we get out of it. Jesus didn’t rebuke Peter, but emphasized that what they had done would not be forgotten. We will be repaid, though not in the same way as we had given. For a related study, go to Chapter 10 on rewards in the Spiritual Leadership material.
a. Why could the rich young ruler not sell his possessions and follow Jesus? His security of life, reputation and identity were wrapped up in his possessions. His trust was his stuff. Jesus challenged him to fully put his trust in Jesus.
b. In whom or what are you truly placing your trust for eternal life? Is it really Jesus, or the fact you have a lifestyle that is moral and you involve Jesus in your life until the hard things in life come about, and you then do not want anything to do with Jesus?
c. With man, all things are impossible, but with God, all things are possible. So who transforms the heart? God.
d. What was the concern of the apostles and Peter with the fact that they gave up everything to follow Jesus? Peter wanted confirmation from Jesus that there was hope of salvation and they were not just following a good person who could not do anything for them.
e. What do we who believe have waiting for us? Eternal life in
heaven and being involved in the new heaven and new earth. That level of involvement depends on our faithfulness on earth (Chapter 10 – Rewards – Spiritual Leadership material). We will be surprised somewhat who gets rewards.
f. At this point of his ministry life, after several years of being with Jesus, does Peter trust Jesus?
9. May I serve you? John 13:1-20 - Peter didn’t want Jesus acting or being a slave (for the slave washed people’s feet as they came to a house). Jesus was teaching to lead; to represent Him, we have to serve others, the world We have to put the needs of others ahead of ourselves. We have to be willing to get dirty for God. A leader is not greater than those he/she leads. We put them ahead of ourselves. Our lives belong to Jesus, for we are His servants.
Peter realized Jesus was doing this to show how they were to live, so he was ready for a bath. Again his impulsiveness (ADHD) came out. Also spiritually, once you are saved, been cleansed throughout, all you need is to cleanse the areas that are dirty. Peter probably figured yet that an earthly kingdom was going to be set up and that was no way for a king to deal with his subjects; but to lead effectively, you need to serve. Peter wanted a fighter, not a healer. He could have felt a bit guilty because of the position He was sitting at (where the servant sat) and that they had not arranged for a slave to do the work Jesus was doing.
a. Why was it necessary to wash feet, and who usually did that? People wore sandals and feet get dirty. Footwear was taken off at the door. The slave (servant) was supposed to wash feet.
b. Why did Peter have the reaction he did when Jesus came to wash his feet? Several thoughts here – it is an act of humility, to wash and also to be washed by someone you deem as a leader, as someone you respect. Jesus was acting like a slave to the group of guys He had led for several yeas. Also Peter might have felt awkward or guilty for not offering to do this himself. He himself was one of the leaders of the group and in his mind, he could have thought that this activity was below him – one of the lesser apostles should have done it, and now Jesus was.
c. If you have bathed (salvation or justification), you need only to be washed (get the dirt off your feet). Peter had been cleansed or bathed. To continue fellowship with Jesus/God, we need to be washed (get the dirt off our feet). Peter understood that. How do believers stay in fellowship with God when we have sinned?
I John
d. What did this situation teach Peter about being a leader? Leaders serve. They put the needs of others whom they are serving ahead of their own. You need to be thinking all the time about your followers and working to meet their needs, sometimes at the expense of your comfort and own needs.
10. Am I the betrayer? John 13:21-38 - Peter was sitting in the seat or spot for the servant. This had to be very upsetting to him. This uneasiness comes out when Jesus talks about His betrayer. Peter motions to John to ask who that person is. Peter probably felt he was the one. Remember back to being called Satan – remember the impulsive things he had done with Jesus. This is one major motivation, probably, why he was adamant with Jesus about not denying Him, and why he cut off Malchus’ ear.
Here he is, sitting in the slave’s spot. He feels he has been demoted. He doesn’t understand why Jesus washed their feet; he was a leader being a slave to those He led. Then Peter falls asleep when he is supposed to be praying. Peter figured he was washed up with being a follower of Jesus. Spiritually, from the Last Supper until Jesus meets him on the beach in John 21, Peter is checked out, call it the wilderness experience. Peter, in his mind, is history. He has failed miserably. Wrong thinking gets you in trouble (cutting off ears; boasting about something, then totally failing over it). Satan goes for the thoughts; if he gets those thoughts, it is over.
a. Why was Peter so adamant about finding out who the betrayer was?
b. Why did the apostles not understand who the betrayer was, when Jesus indicated who it was in verse 26?
c. John 13:36-38; Luke 22:31-34; Mark
d. What reaction do you feel Peter had when Jesus told him he would betray/deny/disown Jesus three times before the night was complete? (Mark 14:27-31, 66-72; Matt. 26:31-35, 58, 69-75; Luke 22:31-38, 54-62; John 13:36-38; 18:15-18,25-27) Peter was adamant that he would stand with Jesus until the end. In Luke, Satan asks to sift him as wheat (work him over good). Jesus prayed his faith would not fail.
Now Satan got an opportunity to really tempt him and Peter failed the test. The contrast between stating Jesus was the Messiah to deny knowing Jesus is stark. Fear, Satan’s buffeting, confusion, no Holy Spirit, lack of courage and boldness were all part of the contrast. He essentially was on his own, though there was one other disciple with him (John 18). It is difficult to stand on your own. It is much easier when you have a supporting cast around you. How many of us would have done the same thing? All four gospels share this story. It was probably the turning point in Peter’s life and spiritual journey. He realized he could not do this on his own. My guess is that he felt he was okay because he was in the inner circle and his impulsiveness gave him false security. “I can handle this – look, I am saying it, so I must have the conviction inside.” Points to how much we as believers need to hold on to the Holy Spirit and yield to Him. Spiritual leaders must stay in a right relationship with God and be constantly yielding to the Holy Spirit.
Jesus did say in all three references that Peter would deny Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. Thus, in all four gospels, we read the actual betrayal of Peter – the Galilean accent gave him away. Probably the last one to confront Peter was there when Peter cut off the guy’s ear. Plus several others were with this guy. The first two confrontations were by servant girls. His reaction after the rooster crowed was one of bitter remorse.
Like a knife that went into Peter’s heart. This spiraled Peter into spiritual discouragement and wilderness.
e. Note in Luke’s account – Satan requested to sift Peter as wheat. How does that make you feel – that Satan requests to challenge some believers spiritually? Need to stay close to Jesus, stay in the Word and in fellowship with Christians.
11. Exhaustion equals spiritual unpreparedness –Matthew 26:36-56
(Mark 14:32-52; Luke 22:39-54; John 18:2-12) Jesus took Peter, James and John with Him to the garden. Three times Jesus went off to pray and returned, finding the guys sleeping. His concern was they needed to pray so as not to fall into temptation. Spiritual warfare was as strong as ever then and by not being heightened in spiritual awareness could mean one would easily fall into temptation.
Shortly thereafter, according to John, Peter lops off Malchus’ ear in the heat of the moment. Was that because of sleeping that Peter was not alert spiritually and reacted in the flesh? Then what about his denying Jesus – was he not spiritually prepared for what was to occur?
Jesus had predicted that Peter would not be able to stand up for Him when the time came, and also said to the three in the Garden that though their spirits were with Jesus, their human side was weak, not willing to be involved spiritually. Peter boasted that he would be on Jesus’ side no matter what, but reality proved otherwise. Fatigue makes you spiritually unreceptive; you become dull, and being alert is not something that interests you. Spiritual leaders need to be physically alive, rested (taking a Sabbath) and mentally sharp, in order to be spiritually prepared. Militarily, when you are not ready or tired, the enemy has the advantage.
a. Why couldn’t the three stay awake? Long day, late in the night, not understanding the significance of the time, spiritually dull to what was happening.
b. Peter got singled out. Why? Perhaps Peter has assumed the head leader’s role in Jesus’ eyes. As the leader goes, so goes the group.
c. Was Peter prepared for the spiritual battle that was about to occur? No.
d. How could Peter have been prepared? How can we be prepared spiritually for what lies before us? Peter was very tired and fatigued. He could have forced himself to stay awake and pray. It does point out that, as leaders, we need to get good rest, schedule our days so as not to get fatigued, and have time to spend with God, plus slow down to be listening to Him. We need the Sabbath rest God prescribes, and the sabbatical times in our lives to be rejuvenated. This helps us be spiritually alert and sharp.
e. Was cutting off Malchus’ ear reactionary, or mainly not being spiritually prepared for what was happening? (the latter)
12. Denial comes true – turning point in Peter’s life – Matt. 26:69-75
(Mark 14:66-72; Luke 22:55-62; John 18:15-18, 25-27) Peter was
adamant that he would stand with Jesus until the end. In Luke, Satan asks
to sift him as wheat (work him over good). Jesus prayed his faith would
not fail. Jesus did say in all three references that Peter would deny Jesus three times before the rooster crowed. Thus, in all four gospels, we read the actual betrayal of Peter – the Galilean accent gave him away. Probably the last one to confront Peter was there when Peter cut off the guy’s ear. Plus several others were with this guy. The first two confrontations were by servant girls. His reaction after the rooster crowed was one of bitter remorse.
Now Satan got an opportunity to really tempt him and Peter failed the test.
The contrast between stating Jesus was the Messiah to deny knowing
Jesus is stark. Fear, Satan’s buffeting, confusion, no Holy Spirit, lack of
courage and boldness were all part of the contrast. He essentially was on
his own, though there was one other disciple with him (John 18). It is
difficult to stand on your own. It is much easier when you have a
supporting cast around you. How many of us would have done the same
thing? All four gospels share this story. It was probably the turning point
in Peter’s life and spiritual journey. He realized he could not do this on
his own. My guess is that he felt he was okay because he was in
the inner circle and his impulsiveness gave him false security. “I can
handle this – look, I am saying it, so I must have the conviction inside.”
Points to how much we as believers need to hold on to the Holy Spirit and
yield to Him. Spiritual leaders must stay in a right relationship with God
and be constantly yielding to the Holy Spirit.
a. Why did Peter crumble spiritually?
b. Peter was alone at various times during these events. Would having had another apostle with him at the time made a difference for him, where he would not have denied Jesus?
c. How could these few hours have been a turning point for Peter’s spiritual life? Remember, he went back to fishing after this.
d. Who do you have in your life who will help you stay spiritually alert and ready for spiritual battles? Name that person.
e. How did Peter feel after hearing the rooster crow?
13. Sunday is here! John 20:1-8 (Mark 16:7; Luke 24:12) Several of the women saw Jesus when they went to the tomb. They were instructed by Jesus to go tell the apostles, even mentioning Peter’s name in Mark. When Peter heard the news, he took off, probably willing to do that totally on his own. He went into the tomb ahead of John to check out what was up. He was still smarting from what had happened Thursday night and early Friday morning. It blew him out of the water spiritually and he was definitely reeling. “Was this all true – that He would rise from the dead? I want to believe.” That had to be a part of Peter’s thoughts
a. Why did Jesus indicate to the women to specifically tell Peter that Jesus would meet them in
b. What was going through Peter’s mind when he was told by the women to meet Jesus in Galilee, saw the empty tomb firsthand, and yet John 20:9 says they still did not understand from scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead? Confusion; maybe Jesus was not killed after all, maybe we will have an earthly kingdom after all, or maybe “He did rise from the dead. . . that one is really difficult to believe.”
c. What do you think Peter expected to see when he entered the tomb? He probably didn’t know what to think.
14. Back in familiar surroundings – John 21:1-14 - This was the third time Jesus appeared to the apostles after His resurrection. Peter and several of the apostles had gone back to fishing. This is what Peter knew – being his livelihood, plus, he was probably thinking it was all over for him as an apostle. He had blown it royally. Jesus from shore told them to fish one more time, though they had been out all night. Once they began catching fish, Peter realized it was Jesus and swam to shore – again impulsiveness set in, but recent history was striking against him. I think he wanted to be close to Jesus any time he could. Peter was fishing, figuring ministry was over, and Jesus shows up. There is maybe hope for me!
a. Why was Peter fishing again? It was familiar, safe surrounding, and in his mind, he probably seriously felt ministry was over for him – the way he blew it with denying Jesus.
b. Why do you think the fishermen obeyed the suggestion from Jesus when they didn't know it was Jesus yet? How did John recognize that it was Jesus?
c. For what reasons did Peter jump out of the boat and swim to shore when he knew it was Jesus there? Be close to Jesus; Peter's impulsiveness; maybe he was hurting so bad emotionally that being with Jesus was healing to him; and he was excited to see Jesus again. Peter must have been so remorseful over his actions in denying Jesus that for several weeks he had little or no peace inside of himself. Peter probably regretted every word that came out of his mouth that night.
15. Re-commissioned – peace of heart and mind - John 21:15-22
v. 15 – “Simon (not Peter – back to basics), do you agape me more than these other disciples seated here?” “Yes, Lord, you know I phileo you.” “Then be grazing my little baby lambs (feed the young believers).” Peter is done boasting – he can only phileo (have affection for) Jesus.
v. 16 – “Simon, do you agape me?” “I phileo you.” “Shepherd the sheep, then.”
v. 17 – (Jesus takes the step to be on the level of Peter’s love and this is where Peter was grieved, for the Lord had to come to his level to communicate what affection there was in His heart. But Jesus did, and did not change his directive.) “Simon, do you phileo me?” “Lord, You know all things, You know I phileo you.” “Then be grazing my sheep. Sheep need to be fed, too.
Jesus met Peter where he was at, beginning with the basics (Simon). Jesus told Peter he was in charge of feeding/developing the young believers and shepherding and feeding the older believers. His ministry would not be easy, as his death was foretold with “hands stretched out,” and how Jesus used him or John was of no concern to others except the individual himself. Our faith and loyalty are to the Lord and He has the right to do what He wants, however He wants.
Perhaps Jesus questioned Peter three times because of the three denials. More so, Jesus met Peter where he was at, built him up and in a short time, Peter’s love got to the agape level. Jesus took the potential and took Peter upward. Peter knew his heart, and boasting was no longer a part of his vocabulary. Most progress occurs when someone realizes where they are at, then moves up. Jesus was preparing Peter for the next steps.
a. Why did Jesus question Peter three times? And why begin with using Peter’s original name, Simon?
b. The boasting Peter was gone as Jesus dealt with him here. When did Peter change, or how did he change? Probably the last several days of Jesus’ life spoke volumes to Peter’s character. Here was the leader of the bunch, perhaps sitting in a place of least importance (at the Last Supper). The scenes in his mind from the
c. Where is your love for Jesus? Agape is the deepest form of love, totally committed. Phileo is a brotherly love for someone, but not self-sacrificing, putting the other person ahead of you no matter what.
d. Are you committed to be “dressed and led” by Jesus in whatever way and wherever He leads? What will it take to have your love go from phileo to agape?
e. What does it take to totally follow Jesus when He says to you, “Follow me”? Following Jesus is not just a one-time decision. For some, it is almost a daily prayer. It is a dangerous prayer, too, for we are letting Jesus do whatever with us. Do we want to be dangerous for God?
f. How should you handle feelings that other Christians are more blessed than you, or have an easier spiritual journey than you?
16. Picking Matthias - Acts 1:13-22 - Peter, among the 120, got up and said they needed to replace Judas, so that from the 120 there would be a new apostle. Matthias was picked by lot. Was this from God, because He allowed it and didn’t stop it? Nowhere else is Matthias’ name mentioned. That is also true for a couple of the other apostles. So was Matthias a need fulfilled the apostles felt they had? Peter did take the leadership role (again). He was restored and felt he was a part of the plan, the solution to build the church. God allows decisions we make. He doesn’t step in automatically when it is going to be a bad decision and stop us. So was it God’s will for Matthias to be an apostle?
a. Peter’s encounter with Jesus on the shore was very therapeutic and encouraging, as he took the lead in discussing a replacement apostle. Have you had a time in your spiritual journey where you felt you could no longer be used by God? How were you restored, if you were?
b. Was it God’s will for Matthias to become an apostle? Peter fulfilled prophecy from Psalms, yet Matthias is not mentioned ever again.
17. Power shows up! Acts
The Holy Spirit came into Peter, and the wisdom and boldness evident in the first public message by Peter was clear. He spoke with authority and sensitivity from the Spirit. He gave the Spirit the opportunity to speak to hearts. He (the Spirit) empowered Peter by giving him wisdom to instruct people ready to hear the gospel.
We need to be ready at any time to be used of God. Once we are believers, the Holy Spirit guides us. It is our responsibility to be listening and obeying the Holy Spirit’s leading. Difference between now and when Peter was with Jesus is that Peter now had and was allowing the Spirit to guide him.
a. Why did Peter use the Old Testament to preach? The audience was Jewish, and would know the Old Testament. Peter took something they were familiar with and brought it to the current subject at hand.
b. What did it mean for Peter to have the Holy Spirit come into his life?
c. How important is it to use scripture when you share the gospel? You let the Holy Spirit speak to the heart.
d. Explain the gospel, trying not to use terms your unbelieving friends and people would not understand.
18. Performing miracles - Acts 3:1-10 - A lame man was at the temple gate and requested money from Peter and John. They probably were going to do some preaching. Peter did not give him money, but basically gave the man what he had, the power of God. Is that power available to us? Yes, as believers we have access to that power. Why then does the church have or utilize so little of it? When Peter offered this to the man, he was healed. People were in awe and amazement. So, why do we have so little of this power? Do we rely on wealth, pride, education, human resources to do God’s work? Jer.
a. Where had Peter seen miracles before? With having Jesus mentoring/discipling Peter, how would Peter have been prepared for an opportunity with this crippled beggar? He saw what Jesus had done. He knew where the power came from.
b. What do you have to offer to people?
c. Why should we disciple people?
d. Why does the church have so little access to the power shown in this chapter? Especially in
19. A powerful orator - Acts 3:11-26 Salvation is offered to the Jews again. Peter is an excellent communicator. At Solomon’s Porch, Peter took advantage of the crowd who were in amazement of what God had done and preached a salvation message focused upon his audience, the Jews! Peter takes what the people know and lays out what it means in a spiritual history context. He didn’t mince words – came out and said, “You killed Jesus, but God intervened!” Why does the church, why do we have so little access to the power shared in chapter 3? What is transpiring here is consistency between words and actions. There is not only a boldness that resulted when the Holy Spirit entered Peter’s life, but also Peter’s action done with courage and conviction are intergitious (full of integrity) with his words. That is what the Holy Spirit can do as we are obedient to His leadings.
a. What is the focus of Peter’s message to the people in astonishment who came to find out what happened?
b. Who gets the credit when you preach or do a good deed for someone?
c. What evidences of the Holy Spirit in Peter’s life are seen in this passage?
d. Who did Peter say killed Jesus? (Would you have the boldness to preach that to an audience who might not be receptive to such true accusations?)
e. How can you develop more boldness?
20. Persecuted for their faith - Acts 4:1-22 Being with Jesus, sitting at his feet. Probably the biggest, or one of the biggest areas Peter needed to develop was in this area. He could talk a lot, but actions never followed that were consistent. Things changed when the Holy Spirit took up residence. Peter and John are brought before the religious leaders and basically were to justify what they were doing; then be disciplined for doing right, following God. The religious leaders thought they had rid themselves of Jesus, but the apostles were claiming Jesus was actually alive and performing miracles in His power. This was evidenced by having the former crippled beggar in attendance – no one could deny it. How could they have such abilities and understanding? (vs. 10-13) Peter and John were simple, ordinary men, unschooled. What gave them boldness and understanding, wisdom, insight? Being with Jesus and the Holy Spirit guiding them.
Jesus healed the man (vs. 10), not something Peter could do by himself. This Jesus is the One the Israelites rejected (vs. 11) and salvation is found in no one else. Jesus alone is the source of salvation (vs. 12). Being with Jesus gives you understanding and insight, wisdom that awes people. This is not book knowledge, though it is part of the process. It is taking that book knowledge and being obedient and experiencing life, sitting at the feet of Jesus and going through life together.
a. How do people know you have been with Jesus?
b. Are you ready to be persecuted for your faith? Some have been persecuted – what sustained you to keep your focus on Jesus?
c. How did Peter and John receive such abilities and understanding? (vs. 10-13)
d. How powerful is a personal testimony of what Jesus has done in someone’s life?
e. How does spiritual courage develop in your life?
f. Where does joy come from? How can it develop in your life when your circumstances are desperate?
g. Something to seriously think about – if you were ever told to not share the gospel, scripture or your faith, what would you do – obey men or God?
h. What impact did being with Jesus have on Peter (from observing this passage)?
21. Infecting others with spiritual boldness - Acts 4:23-31 John and Peter went back to their comrades after getting released, and told all that had happened. Their inspired testimony encouraged fellow believers to join them to pray and seek boldness, to do great things through them for God’s glory. The Holy Spirit shows up and all participants get filled with the Holy Spirit and great boldness. Peter and John had been with Jesus, been filled with the Holy Spirit and now their attitude and spirituality were infecting other believers. We need to be faithful, courageous and bold for Christ because it does affect and infect others. That fills one of the roles in the Body – to encourage and build up believers. Peter was rubbing off on others in dramatic fashion!
a. What influence or impact does someone have on you when they are very excited about something?
b. What specific areas did the apostles pray for?
c. What does the Holy Spirit give to a believer in Christ?
A counselor, someone to teach and remind you of what you have studied in scripture, comfort, truth, peace (John
d. From this passage, why should you spend time with an older mature Christian and with a younger, newer Christian?
22. Caught in the act – Acts 5:1-11 Boldness in leadership. Ananias and Sapphira were caught lying about the amount of money for the land they sold. Peter was the spokesman for the apostles and early church. He confronted them both in their lies and they died in their lies. Peter’s boldness had developed him into a person who stood for the truth and convictions of the gospel. Peter was direct and didn’t beat around the bush with these two. He was not willing to compromise the gospel for any reason. His convictions were entrenched!
a. How do you develop your ability to hear or understand the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life, and the obedience needed when the Spirit speaks to you?
b. What had the boldness that developed in Peter done for him?
c. What happens to your convictions when spiritual boldness develops in you? You are much more willing to live by them. You should also be realizing which convictions are truly convictions, and what you thought were some convictions, are more preferences and personal choices.
23. Power of the Holy Spirit - Acts 5:12-16, 17-42 Because the apostles were doing great work in the sight of the people, the religious leaders became very jealous! The apostles were thrown in jail, but the Lord got them out miraculously. The apostles returned to the temple courts to proclaim the gospel. The religious leaders brought the apostles back to them, scolding them that they were not to preach again. The religious leaders were getting pinned with Jesus’ death. (Verse 29) Peter and the other apostles replied that they had to obey God, not man, because of what God did through Jesus. The Holy Spirit compelled them to be obedient to God. Peter had come to the point where he had the convictions to do what was right before God, no matter what. Obedience was above life/having an easy life. This is a significant point in the growth of a believer. Obedience to Christ, no matter the cost, shows spiritual maturity above and beyond what we want for our lives. This is dying to self. Once Peter received the Holy Spirit, his head knowledge of Jesus rapidly developed into spiritual maturity as he obeyed what he knew. Boldness results from obedience. This is a continual process! (Verse 41) The apostles left rejoicing because they had suffered for the name of Christ. They never stopped preaching, even though they had been strictly exhorted to stop. Be obedient to the scripture you know. You develop spiritual maturity and with that, boldness and spiritual eyes to see where God is working – continual process
a. What was occurring in and around
b. Why were the religious leaders jealous of Peter and the apostles?
c. The angel of the Lord let the apostles out of jail. That was great. Today many Christians are in prison and being persecuted for the faith. Obviously, the angel has not freed all the Christians. Does that mean, when God does not rescue them like He did with the apostles, these Christians have sinned and are being punished for their sins? Another way to ask a similar question is, if you are not thrown into prison or being tortured for your faith, does that mean you are being a good Christian and God is rewarding you for being good? (Just like God wants all Christians to be rich.)
d. If you were told by the authorities that you could not share your faith with others, what would you do?
e. Where did Peter’s boldness come from (v. 29-32)?
f. If you desire to be a spiritual leader, how obedient to God do you need to be? Obedience to God is one of the most, if not the most distinguishing characteristic of a spiritual leader. From the lists of I Timothy 3 and Titus 2, the difference is being obedient to what is laid out in scripture for spiritual leaders. Spiritual maturity comes as you are obedient to the Holy Spirit, and it is a continual growth process.
g. What kind of wisdom did Gamaliel offer to the Sanhedrin?
h. How do you rejoice, or be filled with joy, when you suffer for Jesus’ sake?
24. God is working in
a. What thoughts could John and Peter have had as they traveled to
b. What difference does the Holy Spirit make in a person’s life?
c. Why would Simon have made the request he did in verses 18-19?
d. How did Peter respond to Simon, and what emotions were present in Peter?
e. From this passage of scripture, how can you tell that Jesus discipled/mentored Peter?
25. Meeting Paul - Acts 9:26-28 Peter was probably among those who were a bit afraid of Paul originally. It was easy to be skeptical, knowing Paul’s history. Perhaps a good lesson here is even though you are developing in your faith, there will be times of challenge in your faith. You will never arrive until you are in heaven! The same is true of Peter.
a. How do you feel Peter reacted to Paul?
b. Why were Peter and the others skeptical of Paul?
c. If we meet someone like the way Paul was in Acts 7-9:28, how should we deal with that person?
26. Having walked with Jesus – Acts 9:32-43 Peter was out of
a. How can you tell that Jesus had discipled/mentored Peter?
b. Do you think Peter believed God would use him to raise Aeneas and Dorcas from the dead? Why or why not?
c. What kind of ministry experience did Jesus give Peter and the apostles?
d. In what ways can you gain or receive ministry experience?
e. Who can you spend discipleship time with to help develop that person?
f. What are different ways to disciple someone?
g. How do you develop stability in your spiritual walk, your relationship with God?
27. Transition time - Acts 12:1-19 Peter was put in prison by Herod after James (Son of Thunder) was killed by Herod. While Peter was in prison, the church prayed earnestly for him. The night prior to his trial, Peter was released from prison by an angel. He thought he was having a vision until he was outside and the angel left. God had rescued him from Herod and the Jews who wanted him dead. Peter went to John Mark’s mother’s home and Rhoda answered the door. She was so overwhelmed, Peter was left standing at the door. Finally he was let in and eventually left for another place. He gave the glory to God and knew God was totally controlling his life.
a. Are you willing to go to prison or die for your faith?
b. What role did the church play (v. 5)? They were earnestly (wrestling) in prayer for Peter.
c. Why did God rescue Peter from prison?
d. Who was in control of Peter’s life? Is He of your life?
e. What was the scene like at John Mark’s mother’s home when Rhoda found out Peter was at the door?
f. Have you ever had a miracle happen to you? Describe it.
From this point on in Acts, except for the
g. Could you handle this in your life – of going from the leader and focal point of your group to having someone else become the focus of the people’s attention – where they go to that person instead of you for direction, and the people wanted to spend time with the new person instead of you?
h. What does this say about Peter’s character?
