We have been looking at the path of a backslider from Mark 14 following the story of Peter denying Jesus. We have talked about pride, that self-sufficient attitude that would say, Lord all these others may deny you but not me, I would die for you. That attitude that depends on self and thinks you are better than others. Yesterday we looked at slumber and prayerlessness. Jesus asked Peter “Could you not tarry with me for an hour….. watch and pray that you may not fall into temptation.
When the hour finally came for Jesus to be arrested, just as he had predicted, all his disciples Peter included deserted him
Mark 14:54 (AMP)
54 Peter had followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest; and he was sitting with the officers [guards and servants] and warming himself at the fire.
Peter the one who was so confident that he would be willing to die with Jesus, was now afraid, when the hour came, he realized it was not as easy as it seemed. He was now following Jesus at a distance. He did not want people to associate him with Jesus, he was afraid for his life.
Romans 1:16 (AMP)
16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
Are you ashamed of the gospel? Are you the kind of Christian who is ashamed to be seen walking around with a bible or going to church? Are you the kind of Christian who is ashamed to boldly declare that you are born again and that Jesus is your savior? Remember Jesus said;
Matthew 10:33 (AMP)
33 But the one who denies and rejects Me before men, that one I will also deny and reject before My Father who is in heaven.
Do not fall back, do not follow Jesus at a distance, walk with Him side by side and do not deny Him before men. Amazingly after restoration it is this same Peter who preached boldly on the day of Pentecost and 3000 people were added to their number. There is restoration for you if you have been ashamed of the gospel. Ask God to forgive and restore you and ask that he fills you with His Spirit so that you may be bold!
