“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia,”

Peter's Introduction               

I begin a new series today from the first epistle of Peter. As Jesus’ chosen spokesman and leader of the 12 apostles, I am inspired as this eyewitness to three years of being with Jesus. How does Peter introduce us to His Savior and Lord?

When I was visiting relatives once, I listened and watched my two young nephews. They are brothers. Each admired what the other one was like and wanted to be like his brother. One was social and his brother was quiet. The older wished he could feel comfortable in front of people. He wished he could make others feel good, laugh and joke around. Interestingly the gregarious brother wished he was more like the first - studious, solid, and stable. The elder had abilities to accomplish his goals and dreams without being distracted. He was more organized and disciplined. Yet, each wished they could be more like the other. I admired their individual qualities that made them unique.

When God works with men and women, He does not make us carbon copies. There is only one of you. God uses us with our unique personalities and idiosyncrasies. We have different temperaments, abilities, likes and dislikes. Some of those we develop, but much is the way God made us. Not all of us are extroverts; most are introverts. Not all are socially comfortable people; many prefer quiet activities and spend time by themselves. Some are more creative than others or athletic or musical. What seems odd to me is most seem unhappy with the way they are and want to be like someone else.

I wouldn't be surprised if that was the way it was between the brothers Andrew and Peter. They were so different, but special each in their own ways. We know more of Peter because he was clearly an extrovert. He was a leader. He was vocal. He was the one who demonstrated impulsive behavior, but Andrew is portrayed in the Gospels as quieter. He worked more behind the scenes. He was impressed with Jesus and got his brother, Peter, and brought him to Christ.

Peter introduces his letter by acknowledging his calling. “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ”. The call did not come because Peter filled out an application form and submitted it with a deposit to Jesus’ school of apostleship. It did not come from his degrees. It did not come from some blood line. It was given to him by Jesus’ will.

This letter is from the big fisherman. He was part of Jesus inner circle. Peter was mending his nets and discussing the events of the day on the beach of the sea of Galilee when Andrew tells him, "Simon, you should come and hear this guy. This is the one John the Baptist was talking about. I met Him today with our friend John. He speaks like no one else I've ever heard. I want you to meet Him. I am convinced He is the Messiah, from God. He is going to redeem our people."

Peter, who was called Simon probably grunts, finishes his task and wonders what Andrew his brother is up to now. Because of the trust and love he has for Andrew, he follows him and meets Jesus. Do you know what Jesus tells him?  "You are called Simon. I am going to call you Peter." Jesus has plans for the brothers. After meeting Jesus, the next stop was for Peter to listen to the command of the Master “Follow me.”

The first day the invitation was simply “Come and see.” After these friends were convinced, Jesus was a great prophet, they were challenged to follow. In obedience they did. When they went where Jesus went and did wherever Jesus said, they went out but never alone. Following Jesus time on earth He gave them the promise of the coming of the Holy Spirit.

The elements of true discipleship begin with hearing about Jesus; seeing who He is; recognizing the call He has on our lives. To obey to is to follow Him, to go and do His will in the world by the power of the Holy Spirit. As Jesus followers, we also have a unique calling on our lives with the gifts, talents and personality God gave us by His grace.

Application:   Being with Jesus will affect your life and your relationships. It will affect your priorities and your purpose. Have you taken the time to be with Jesus? He calls us all to follow Him.

Prayer:  Lord, as I enter Your Word and prayer, I know that I am intimately meeting with You, hearing Your Word to me.   In that position, I am able to worship and pray.  I love You Lord.