Session 1 – Week 2 – Day 2
Reading: Matthew 14:22-33; Matthew 16:13-23, Matthew 26:31-35, Matthew 26:69-75
In your own words summarize how Jesus dealt with Peter on each of these occasions. Was Jesus treating him consistently?
The first time, Jesus asked Peter why he doubted Him; the second He tells Peter to “Get behind me, Satan” and rebukes him for not having the things of God in mind, but rather of men; the third He tells Peter that he (Peter) will disown him (Jesus) three times before the rooster crows and on the final time, Peter weeps bitterly after he had disowned Jesus three times, just as Christ had told him he would do.
Was Jesus consistent? Absolutely! Anytime that Peter would be caught up in the world around him, afraid due to a lack of faith, Jesus would question and correct him. It reminds me of times when I’ve fallen and have been rebuked – I may buck, get really mad or deny their accusations, but when the truth is brought to light, I end up weeping, just as Peter did.
Peter was always a man for action and speaking his mind. At times this was a good thing, but at other times his forwardness led to sin. Recently, when have you been able to speak out for God or acted boldly and God has used you? Praise God that he has used you.
Recently? Nothing honestly comes to mind right now. I’m going to have to think about this one a little bit and get back to it.
On the other hand, when have you spoken or acted impetuously and without thought? You may not be reduced to the bitter tears which Peter shed, but pause to ask for God’s forgiveness and in openness for Him to reveal Himself to you as He did to Peter (Matthew 16:17).
This is more my tendency, honestly. I used to be so careful to think before I spoke, but lately I’ve had more times than I care to remember when my actions or words have worked a bit quicker than my mouth had. 
Lord, I pray that in those times when my temper might get the best of me, times when I let my actions lead before thinking about the consequences, times when I let worldly things run my life that you will help to turn me back to the path of righteousness that you laid down for me with the death of Jesus Christ. I ask that you reveal to me who you are – my savior, my king. You are everything that I need in this world and so much more!