Do you know what the scroll on the right says? How’s your Greek? If as bad as me, try this link to see and hear what these words are.
We have a lot of great information about the Apostle Peter in the four gospels, as well as other places in the New Testament including the books he wrote. Still, Roger wondered how much we really connect with Peter as a human from the time he met Jesus through the last of his books to the church we have.
So taking a bit of creative license, Roger created a diary as if it belonged to and was written by Peter.
The text is purely speculative, and the dates are only a product of the passages Roger cites, divided from the three years that Jesus ministered. The lessons are split into two. Lesson one is a product of the four gospels in the best order Roger could repeat ending with Peter’s denial of Christ and then His appearing again. Lesson two begins in the upper room and concludes with the two books that Peter wrote.
The responses to both lessons was very good, and Roger feels that many had the same reaction he did in preparing the lessons, that the idea of a diary helps us feel even closer to Peter as the man he was.
Curious? Listen to the lessons below and let Roger know what you thought of this style.
Below the two recordings below, is the outline for both lessons. Yes, it is a LOT of text, but both lessons went fast! If you like it, Roger may do some more in similar fashion…
The Diary of Peter – Starnes, part 1
The Diary of Peter – Starnes, part 2
Outlines
LESSON 1
Day 1
Today my brother was out listening to John teach, and found a man he thinks may just be the Messiah my people have been looking for since the days of Abraham. Andrew heard John testify of this man as the Christ, and he sure seems different. When I met him he knew my name and even changed my name from Simon to Cephas!
John 1:35-42 – “Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour). One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Now when Jesus looked at him, He said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is translated, A Stone).”
Day 60
Many of the house of Israel were devastated to hear that Herod had John the Baptizer beheaded. If John was the forerunner for the Christ the law and prophets told us about, I wonder what is about to happen? Interesting events today…
Matthew 4:18-20 – “And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him.”
Day 120
This guy is AMAZING! We were in Capernaum today and Jesus was teaching everyone in such a way as no one before. He had great authority! There was this guy with an unclean demon who even called Jesus by name! But Jesus told the demon to come out and it obeyed him! But that is not all, my mother-in-law was very sick today with a high fever, and this Jesus healed her and many others who were sick and diseased later that day!
Luke 4:38-39 – “Now He arose from the synagogue and entered Simon’s house. But Simon’s wife’s mother was sick with a high fever, and they made request of Him concerning her. So He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose and served them.”
Day 180
I’ve been a fisherman all my life, as has my brother and father, but nothing prepared me for what Jesus can do. Listen what happened to me and my fishing partners James and John today…
Luke 5:1-11 – “So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat. When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!” For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.”
Day 240
Today Jesus picked me and 11 other men to be his “Apostles” to work with him…
Mark 3:13-19 – “And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananite; and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. And they went into a house.”
Day 300
Today me, my brother Andrew, and the rest of the disciples of Jesus were witness to him feeding 5,000 men, plus women and children with just 5 barley loaves and two small fish!
John 6:1-14
Day 301
Okay, this guy is amazing! There is nothing that he can’t do, and he can make others do the impossible too! Listen to what happened to me today…
Matthew 14:22-33 – “Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary. Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”
Day 361
Okay, today I’ve seen it all! This Jesus teaches like no one I’ve ever met, he makes no mistakes, he is always right in the words he speaks and today, he even made a dead girl come back to life! Here’s what happened…
Luke 8:49-56 – “While He was still speaking, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, “Your daughter is dead. Do not trouble the Teacher.” But when Jesus heard it, He answered him, saying, “Do not be afraid; only believe, and she will be made well.” When He came into the house, He permitted no one to go in except Peter, James, and John, and the father and mother of the girl. Now all wept and mourned for her; but He said, “Do not weep; she is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him, knowing that she was dead. But He put them all outside, took her by the hand and called, saying, “Little girl, arise.” Then her spirit returned, and she arose immediately. And He commanded that she be given something to eat. And her parents were astonished, but He charged them to tell no one what had happened.”
Day 421
Interesting conversation between Jesus, the other disciples and I today regarding just who he is and who others said he was…
Matthew 16:13-20 – “When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ.”
Day 481
The lessons of this Jesus often confound me, but teach me such great lessons at the same time…
John 13:1-9 – “Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end. And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?” Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.” Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”
Day 541
I’m having a lot of trouble understanding what the goal of this man is. He seems to be the Messiah, he is obviously a great teacher and man of God, but he speaks of dying soon, even chastising me today…
Mark 8:31-33 – “And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He spoke this word openly. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”
Day 601
All my life I have been told stories of Moses and Elijah and what they did for God and God’s people, and now my own teacher, Jesus, is no doubt far more than they were! Listen to what me, John, and James saw and heard today…
Luke 9:28-36 – “Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him. Then it happened, as they were parting from Him, that Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah” — not knowing what he said. While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were fearful as they entered the cloud. And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet, and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen.”
Day 661
I’ve been frustrated with my brother this week, he keeps doing things to annoy and frustrate me, always asking for my forgiveness and I am tired of it! So I asked Jesus about this situation. His answer was surprising and he went on to tell us a parable…
Matthew 18:21-22 – “Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”
Day 721
I got a scary statement from Jesus today, warning me that Satan himself was after me, ME! He told me what Satan wanted. I told him I would not leave him, but he said things I am having trouble believing…
Luke 22:31-34 – “And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Matthew 26:33 – “Peter answered and said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble because of You, I will never be made to stumble.”
Day 781
Jesus keeps talking about dying and death, he the one who can heal others and raise the dead keeps talking about the end of his life, I don’t get it…
Mark 14:32-34 – “Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”
Day 841
I am not willing to let anyone take Jesus by force, but my feelings don’t seem to be part of his plan. Tonight that dirty Judas sold my lord out and when the mob came to us I cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant, but was chastised and Jesus even healed the man! I’m so confused…
John 18:10-11 – “Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?”
Luke 22:51 – “But Jesus answered and said, “Permit even this.” And He touched his ear and healed him.”
Day 901
I’ve been with my lord Jesus for nearly 3 years, day and night we are together, and just as he said, no matter how I refused to believe it, I have denied him 3 times…
Matthew 26:69-75 – “Now Peter sat outside in the courtyard. And a servant girl came to him, saying, “You also were with Jesus of Galilee.” But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are saying.” And when he had gone out to the gateway, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, “This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth.” But again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the Man!” And a little later those who stood by came up and said to Peter, “Surely you also are one of them, for your speech betrays you.” Then he began to curse and swear, saying, “I do not know the Man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” So he went out and wept bitterly.”
Day 961
Well, Jesus did die. He went willingly and wanted no protection from me pr anyone. He didn’t even try to stop them from that horrible death. But what happened today was simply impossible! We were told by the women that his tomb was empty and that an angel told them to pass word on to us…
Mark 16:6-7 – “But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples — and Peter — that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”
Mark 16:14-16 – “Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
LESSON 2
Day 1001
This Jesus was amazing in life, and while he was killed he lives again! He’s told me and the other apostles to remain in Jerusalem until the promise from the Father has come. So we all met in an upper room to pray…
Acts 1:12-14 – “Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey. And when they had entered, they went up into the upper room where they were staying: Peter, James, John, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot; and Judas the son of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”
Day 1002
Jesus told us some things were about to change for we his apostles when the promise of God has come, and he was not kidding. What happened today was beyond belief but was what we had already read about as kids from the words of law of Moses and the prophets…
Acts 2:1-4 – “When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
After what happened to us in the upper room, I stood up to deliver a sermon like none I had ever given, nor had I ever heard from anyone else ever before! Truly what came from my mouth was from God!
Acts 2:36-39 – “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Day 1062
This ‘gift of the holy spirit’ is something amazing, something that is not of this world, but something that seems to have no limits!
Acts 3:1-10 – “Now Peter and John went up together to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms from those who entered the temple; who, seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, asked for alms. And fixing his eyes on him, with John, Peter said, “Look at us.” So he gave them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up, and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. So he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them — walking, leaping, and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God. Then they knew that it was he who sat begging alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.”
Day 1072
The leadership of our people have not been very happy about Jesus or his teaching. They are not happy with us teaching what he asked us to pass on either. We’ve been threatened to stop or else, but I could only reply with what we’ve been witness to…
Acts 4:18-20 – “So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.”
Day 1132
With all the great support the brethren are doing to help one another in the church of Christ, there seem to be some who are only trying to get attention and favor by their actions even if dishonestly. The power of the holy spirit came to me today in judgment on a man and woman who were doing just that…
Acts 5:1-11 – “But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.”
Day 1192
This power of God in us is like nothing else! People are being healed of sickness and disease to the point that even people are putting the sick on beds or couches so even my shadow can pass over them to heal them! But the high priest and leaders are very frustrated at the cause of Christ wanting to put an end to the teaching Christ told us to carry on…
Acts 5:28-29 – “saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.”
Day 1252
The working of God in us is bringing those from far away to ask us for our gifts to be used to heal the sick and lame abroad…
Acts 9:34-35 – “And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus the Christ heals you. Arise and make your bed.” Then he arose immediately. So all who dwelt at Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.”
Day 1312
A woman who was well-loved and appreciated had died in Joppa and two men were sent to me to see what I could do for her, even in death. And trough the gift of God and the faith I had in Christ, I was able to do what flesh and blood could not otherwise do…
Acts 9:40-42 – “But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.”
Day 1372
Growing up I knew the promises of Abraham were to God’s people, but also to all the world, but I never expected that promise to be realized in my life. I had seen the power of God come upon me and the other apostles and disciples but until today, that gift had not been part of any others but the Jews, but that was all about to change…
Acts 10:4b-6 – “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.[a] He will tell you what you must do.”
After my prayer in the sixth hour, I fell into a trance and dreamed. In the end of the vision I was told…
Acts 10:15-16 – “And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.”
It was then I was visited by men from Cornelius and the spirit told me…
Acts 10:19-20 – “While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.”
I followed the men as directed by the Holy Spirit, and the next day I met Cornelius who tried to worship me, but I knew that was not for me…
Acts 10:25-26 – “As Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I myself am also a man.”
I explained to Cornelius that it was not customary for a Jew to keep company with one of another nation, but he explained his vision to me and I shared what the spirit had told me.
Acts 10:34-35 – “Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him.”
Acts 10:43 – “To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins.”
While I shared these things, the holy spirit descended on these just as with us at the beginning. While the spirit had descended, Christ Himself told us that all who came after Him would need to be baptized and that is just what we did…
Acts 10:44-48 – “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered, “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.”
Day 1385
It was an amazing thing to see the Gentiles receive the gift of God and Christ just as we did, but it was a hard sell for my brethren…
Acts 11:1-3 – “Now the apostles and brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter came up to Jerusalem, those of the circumcision contended with him, saying, “You went in to uncircumcised men and ate with them!”
But they were satisfied at my explanation. Even a man with the gifts of God is still human and has to deal with humans…
Acts 11:18 – “When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”
Day 1445
Herod was trying to do please the Jews by persecuting me and the church. So he had me arrested, put in prison, and had four squads of soldiers guarding me, in a cell with two other soldiers and I was bound with chains, yet an angel of the Lord let me out…
Acts 12:11 – “And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”
I went to where the disciples had been praying for my release, and was a little surprised by the greeting I got, but enjoyed the news I heard about the soldiers at the prison!
Acts 12:16 – “Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished.”
Acts 12:18 – “Then, as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter.”
Day 1505
This man Paul had become quite a threat to the church, but through the grace of God, had made a 180º change in direction through Christ, and he and I spent over two weeks together…
Galatians 1:18 – “Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and remained with him fifteen days. But I saw none of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother.”
Day 1565
Paul’s ministry becomes a powerful force to the gentiles, as he acknowledges here…
Galatians 2:6-8 – “But from those who seemed to be something — whatever they were, it makes no difference to me; God shows personal favoritism to no man — for those who seemed to be something added nothing to me. But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter (for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles)”
Day 1625
I’ve been in the presence of Christ Himself, I was given the keys to the kingdom, I preached the first gospel sermon on Pentecost, I heal the sick and diseased, and I introduced Christ to the gentiles, yet even with all that it seems my human flesh can still be wrong as so clearly pointed out by my brother Paul…
Galatians 2:11-16 – “Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; for before certain men came from James, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy. But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, “If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews? We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.”
Day 1685
In my first letter to those in my book of 1 Peter, I state…
1 Peter 1:3-5 – “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
I tried to give instruction to these and to you today…
1 Peter 1:13 – “Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;”
Day 1745
In my letter to the churches, I remind the saints of a truth we struggle with at all times…
1 Peter 2:25 – “For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.”
I also explained again the importance of baptism and why Christ requires it…
1 Peter 3:21 – “There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ”
Day 1810
In my final letter to the church, I give more direction to leadership of the church and to the saints on how to conduct themselves and what to watch out for, including…
2 Peter 3:10-13 – “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up. Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.”
These are the events of my life from the days that I met the Son of God, Jesus Christ, through the last days of my life as a Christian, Apostle, and servant of the Savior of mankind. I pray you see in me a human like you, but one who can take on all of what God gives us in faith and obedience to overcome Satan.
– Peter, son of Jonah
Feel like you know Peter better now? Do you understand why he gave his life for the cause of Christ? Are you a Christian? Are you doing what God requires of you to truly be a child of His? Shoot us a note on our contact form if you want to discuss this or anything else spiritual.
– Roger