Monday, March 6, 2006
Mark 14:31 But he [Peter] spoke more vehemently, "If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!" And they all said likewise.
BRAVADO DOES NOT EQUAL FAITH
How often we can hear or read the Passion History of our dear Lord Jesus and over look important indicators of Scripture meant to teach.
In the first section of the Passion History, Jesus tells the disciples they would all flee because of Him and what was about to happen. Peter, the bold one, and the others not to be out done by Peter, proclaimed, "Though all should flee; I will not." Peter may have thought this was faith speaking, and while well intentioned, his bravado before the storm, was not faith. As the events of that Friday unfolded we see how little it took for Peter to stumble and fall.
On occasion one hears comments, "I don't need to go to church to believe." This may be true, yet the comment reveals not faith but bravado. Even so, if we think to ourselves, "I would never say that" or "I know that isn't exactly true" the bravado which we so often think is strength of faith shows itself when we fail to make use of that which does give strength of faith.
Why do we miss a church service? Why do we not attend bible study? Why do we skip midweek services? Strength of faith? Are we not saying with bravado, like Peter and all the other disciples, "I will not forsake you!" only to stumble at the simplest of questions: "Are you not also one of His disciples?"
The Lord has with great love given us His Word which is the means not of bravado, but for the strengthening of faith which we need daily, not once in awhile.
