Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God's elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
We begin a new series today from the epistles of Peter. As Jesus’ chosen spokesman and leader of the twelve apostles we are inspired, as this eyewitness to the three years of being with Jesus, helps us understand how his heart and priorities were changed.
When God works with men and women, He does not make us carbon copies. God uses us with the personalities and idiosyncrasies. We have different temperaments, abilities, likes, and dislikes. Some of those we develop, but much of that 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 to spend time by themselves. Some are more verbal than others. Some have higher energy than others. 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 suspect that's the way it was between the brothers Andrew and Peter. They were so different, but special each in their own ways. We know a lot 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 was portrayed in the gospels as quieter. He worked more behind the scenes. He was impressed with Jesus and brought his brother, Peter to meet him.
Peter introduces himself and his letter by acknowledging his calling. “Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ.” The calling was given to him by Jesus’ will.
His faith story began with Peter, a fisherman mending his nets and discussing the events of the day on the sea when his brother, Andrew, who tells him he should come and hear this prophet. This is the one John the Baptist was pointing to. He speaks like no one else. He thinks Jesus might be the Messiah who is going to redeem Israel.
Because of the trust and love Peter has for his brother, he follows him and meets this stranger. Do you know what Jesus tells him? “You are Simon, son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (John 1:42).
On the first day, the invitation was simply to come and see. Then after they were convinced that Jesus was a great prophet, they were challenged to “follow me.” As they committed themselves to His Lordship, Christ commanded them to “go.”
APPLICATION: Being with Jesus will affect your life and your relationship. It will affect your priorities and your purpose. Have you taken the time to be with Jesus?
PRAYER: Father God, I believe that the elements of true discipleship begin with hearing about Jesus; then seeing who He is and recognizing the call He has on my life. After recognizing the call, I need to make the choice - obey to follow Him and then go and do His will in the world by the power of the Holy Spirit. Lord, help me to follow You more closely.
