We are so quick to condemn the one and readily embrace the other. Both are recorded in John 13...
Those familiar with the events surround the betrayal, arrest and crucifixion of Jesus know that the first prediction by Jesus refers to Judas and the second one to Peter. Judas would betray once and Peter would deny he knew Jesus three times - all on the same evening.
So, what's the difference?
One had malicious intent and the other was a coward. One could not come to forgive himself and the other was convicted in spirit and repented of his wrong.
And there lies the key for each of us. We all have sinned. We know it and the Bible reminds us of it. What do we do when we come to the place where we admit our sin? Do we respond like Judas or Peter? Do we spiral down in our despair and bring about our own end? Or do we humble ourselves before God and seek his grace, mercy and forgiveness - and find life?
21After he had said this, Jesus was troubled in spirit and testified, “Very truly I tell you, one of you is going to betray me.”
38Then Jesus answered, “Will you really lay down your life for me? Very truly I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!
Those familiar with the events surround the betrayal, arrest and crucifixion of Jesus know that the first prediction by Jesus refers to Judas and the second one to Peter. Judas would betray once and Peter would deny he knew Jesus three times - all on the same evening.
So, what's the difference?
One had malicious intent and the other was a coward. One could not come to forgive himself and the other was convicted in spirit and repented of his wrong.
And there lies the key for each of us. We all have sinned. We know it and the Bible reminds us of it. What do we do when we come to the place where we admit our sin? Do we respond like Judas or Peter? Do we spiral down in our despair and bring about our own end? Or do we humble ourselves before God and seek his grace, mercy and forgiveness - and find life?
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