John was the disciple that Jesus loved, who leaned on His bosom. He was closer to Jesus than all the other disciples. Yet, Peter, who openly showed his disagreement with Jesus at times and even denied Him three times in less than twelve hours, was chosen by Jesus to lead the way in establishing His church. Peter returned to his old ways of fishing after Jesus was crucified. However, what changed Peter is the same transformation that continues to change lives today and can change yours if you can accept it.
Peter was surprised when, after what he had done, Jesus came and prepared breakfast for him and called him to eat. In that moment, Peter realized that Jesus had forgiven him. Forgiveness is the key to good health and true success. When Jesus saw that Peter understood he was forgiven and accepted that forgiveness, He called him to serve, just as the Father called Samuel the prophet to go and serve.
Three times, Samuel was called before being commissioned, and so was Peter, although Jesus used different words. He asked Peter, “Lovest thou me more than these fishnets and fishboats?” Peter’s response showed a changed person with a new attitude. The only thing that could have changed Peter was the knowledge that he was forgiven. It was only when this new attitude was displayed that Jesus said, “Good, Peter, feed my sheep.”
Accompanying Bible Verses:
- Matthew 18:21-22 – “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'”
- Psalm 103:12 – “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
- Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
