Pastor’s Notes
This week we see that Peter’s final words are meant to be read as words of great importance. In 2 Peter, Peter has come to terms with the reality that his days on earth are ending; heaven will soon be his home and there will be no more earthly worry or pain. With that, Peter has one last charge to the people of God. A charge of great importance!
Three times in this week’s text does Peter show his intentions in this letter written. Three times he tells us that he has come to remind us of the truth we have been taught, learned, and have leaned on throughout our time as believers. Peter is shining light in that finishing well requires us to return to things we already know to be true.
Peter does not come to us at the end of his life with new information and unfounded secrets of God. No, Peter comes to the people with truths that they already knew. He desires for the people of God to be more firmly rooted, stable, and strong in their foundation.
Since the beginning of 1 Peter, we have drawn from the power and impact of Peter’s life story. Peter is a man who has walked with and also away from God. Peter also comes to us with great knowledge and also great experiences; many ups and many downs. As we said in week 1 of our series in 2 Peter, Simon Peter is a complete and complex man.
I can’t imagine that his last words in 2 Peter were not fueled by the events that took place in John 21. In John 21 we see a moment between Peter (who had just abandoned and denied Christ) and Jesus Himself. In all of Peter’s embarrassment and shame, the risen King calls Peter to Himself at the end of John’s gospel Jesus restores and forgives the fallen apostle. Jesus restores and gives Peter a charge in some of His last words to him. Words of great importance. Jesus tells Peter, “Feed and tend to my sheep.” Words that Peter would finish well in doing.
Scripture to go along with the message
Read Luke 24:1-12 & John 21:1-25. These verses are wonderful verses on Peter’s restoration after his faith fell. We will be reading these verses during the Sunday morning message.
Highlight in your Bibles
Highlight the 3 times Peter says remember in this week’s text. Also highlight whatever jumps out at you in John 21.
Questions to Consider
1.) What truths in your life do you know, but also need to be reminded of? What strengths in your foundation used to provide great stability, but now seem to have gotten weaker in time?
2.) How does Peter’s forgiveness and later charge show the power of seeing and experiencing God’s grace?
