April 29, 2022
What does it say?
Jesus was betrayed by Judas, denied by Peter, and questioned by the high priest and Pilate.
What does it mean?
Three men failed to take a stand for Jesus in this chapter. Judas made a treacherous choice by selling His allegiance to Jesus for a handful of silver. Instead of standing with Jesus, “Judas…also stood with them.” Peter, on the other hand, was ready to give his life in defense of Jesus, but a sword was the wrong weapon at the wrong time. Afraid and alone outside the door of the high priest, Peter “stood with them” and denied knowing Jesus. Pilate chose power and security over truth, siding with the crowd and delivering Jesus to be crucified. Greed, fear, and power stood in the way of taking a stand.
How should I respond?
Are you in the minority as you live for Christ in your home, workplace, or school? When people ridicule and mock God and His Word, where do you stand? It takes courage and conviction to refuse to laugh, to walk away, or to stand on biblical truth. Are you, like Peter, courageous one moment and fearful the next? Have you denied Jesus simply by being silent when He wanted you to speak up? Jesus suffered humiliation and pain in order to stand for you. What are you willing to endure in order to stand for Him?