John 18:15-18, 25-27

Peter’s Denials

John 21:15-19

Jesus reinstates Peter

“Following Jesus—Lessons from the Life of Peter”

John 18 & 21 / 1 Peter 5

It is important to read the whole story.If you read only part of this story,

you would think Peter was a failure.We learn that mistakes are redeemable.

Some of the best leaders are people who have learned from mistakes.

Stories from Peter’s life

1. Peter, a fisherman, was one of the first called to be a disciple of Jesus. (John 1:36-42)

2. He became part of Jesus’ “inner circle” along with John and James.

3. Peter tries to walk on water. (Matthew 14:27-31)

4. At the Passover meal, He promised he would lay down his life for Jesus. (John 13:36-38)

5. Peter denied Jesus. (John 18:17-27)

6. After the resurrection, Jesus speaks to Peter...asks him if he truly loves him. Peter affirms his love and Jesus calls him to continue to follow and serve. (John 21:15-19)

7. He became a bold preacher and missionary. (Acts 2:14+)

8. Peter remained faithful to his commitment and ministered throughout his life. (1 & 2 Peter)

9. He encouraged others to be faithful in ministry. (1 Peter 5:1-4)

1 Peter 1:1-4To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder, a witness of Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve;

3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

Unlikely candidate for ministry Rather spoiled Impulsive, rushes into things But doesn’t have enough faith Makes idle promises Doesn’t stand firm Repentant, recommits Seizes opportunities Bold preacher, stands up for Christ Remains faithful in ministry Encourages the church Lays down his life for Christ

Lessons we can learn from Peter’s life:1. Even when we mess up, Jesus loves us

and calls us to recommit.2. Our weakness can become a strength.3. Commitment is a sacrifice.4. Commitment is also an opportunity.

We can make a difference in the lives of others.

5. It is how we finish that counts.

Philippians 3:12-1412 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

We are the Federated Church.

Our Mission is to…

Seek Christ, Serve Christ and Share

Christ.