Many people I know most readily identify with Peter more than any other apostle. For me, Peter represents the ongoing struggles I have with my personal discipleship. One day I’m “up,” and the next day, well, not so much.
Paul wrote of his struggles candidly in Romans 7:14-25, stating that he could not do the things he wanted to do and sometimes did the very things he didn’t want to do. Peter didn’t write about this paradox, he lived it publicly.
Recently I spoke from Matthew 16 and was struck by something I hadn’t given much attention. In Matthew 16:16, Peter offered what is arguably one of the most foundational confessions of the New Testament. “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Because of this confession Jesus “blessed” him and proclaimed that his confession would be the foundation of the emerging church.
From that point, Jesus made his first, clear prediction regarding his passion and resurrection. Peter, according to Scripture, pulled Jesus aside and reprimanded him for “saying such things” (Matthew 16:22). Jesus response? “Get away from me Satan!” (Matthew 16:23).
Wow! Within a span of six verses Peter went from “blessed” to being (basically) called Satan. I don’t know about you, but I can identify with that.
But the good news of the gospel is that Jesus was patient with Peter. Six days later he is invited to participate in an incredible experience we call the transfiguration (Matthew 17:1ff).
I’m thankful that the Bible portrays its characters complete with their flaws and character defects. More than that, I’m grateful that alongside their transparency and vulnerability comes the patience of God. Jesus was patient with Peter, and he’s still patient with Peters today.