“We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). John 1:41
After spending a glorious first day with Jesus, Andrew goes and finds his brother Simon, enthusiastically telling Simon they found Him. Simon responds without hesitation. At this first meeting, Jesus looks into Simon’s heart then Jesus renames Simon– Peter, which means ‘the rock.’ Later Jesus tells Peter, “Upon this rock I shall build my Church, and the gates of Hell will not overcome it.” (Matthew 16:18). Peter's in God’s Grand Plan.
Jesus looks into our hearts, seeing our faith like an oak tree sized faith or perhaps mustard seed sized faith. Jesus anticipates we are going to have rock solid faith within us and Jesus will train and teach us, His disciples, about rock solid faith. Faith growth relies only in Jesus who uses His forgiveness is a guiding principle to perfect us in faith. We have the assurance of all of our Savior’s love, hope, and guidance. Jesus' love fills your heart.
Peter is a rock solid brother in Christ — his life shows forgiveness and Jesus’ desire to teach us with His words. It’s honestly humbling to be so often forgiven by Jesus and in turn to give merciful forgiveness to others. Does forgiveness come easy to us? Not always. Yet, the greater the forgiveness we’ve received from Jesus then the more forgiving we may be. Remember when you experienced New Birth in Jesus-- that's the moment of greatest forgiveness of your life. We forgive as He forgives us.
Jesus’ forgiving loving compassion is now helping you to grow stronger and more solid in faith as together we are His rock solid Church.
Study Questions: 1. Peter has a new name given to him by Jesus. In prayer, ask Jesus if He has a new name for you.
2. How do you experience Jesus' guidance by the Holy Spirit in your day today? What was the confirmation that He is guiding you?
3. Who is the most difficult person in your life to forgive and have you asked Jesus for His help to forgive that person? How is un-forgiveness a hindrance in your life?