Embedded Files
To Finish Well, Abound in God's Grace
To Finish Well, Abound in God's Grace
Have you ever wondered what's in a name? Names often carry meaning and significance. Take, for example, Euclid, known as the Father of Geometry, or Kobe Bryant, the renowned basketball player. In a similar way, the name Peter holds great significance in the Bible. When Simon, son of John, met Jesus, he was given the name Cephas, which means "Peter" or "rock." (John 1:42, Matthew 16:18) Peter, the impulsive and emotional disciple, was a part of Jesus' inner circle and was present during the Transfiguration. He was the first in many things and was both a fisherman and a fisher of men.
Have you ever wondered what's in a name? Names often carry meaning and significance. Take, for example, Euclid, known as the Father of Geometry, or Kobe Bryant, the renowned basketball player. In a similar way, the name Peter holds great significance in the Bible. When Simon, son of John, met Jesus, he was given the name Cephas, which means "Peter" or "rock." (John 1:42, Matthew 16:18) Peter, the impulsive and emotional disciple, was a part of Jesus' inner circle and was present during the Transfiguration. He was the first in many things and was both a fisherman and a fisher of men.
To finish well in our faith, we need to follow the AAA ways: attune our ears to Jesus' call, affix our eyes on Jesus, and abound in God's grace through Jesus.
To finish well in our faith, we need to follow the AAA ways: attune our ears to Jesus' call, affix our eyes on Jesus, and abound in God's grace through Jesus.
I. Attuning our ears to Jesus' call requires us to listen and obey His instructions. Just as Simon Peter followed Jesus' command to let down the nets for a catch of fish, we must be willing to go deeper and trust in His guidance. (Luke 5:4-11) When Peter recognized Jesus' power and authority, he fell to his knees, acknowledging his own sinfulness. But Jesus reassured him, saying, "Don't be afraid! From now on, you'll be fishing for people!" (Luke 5:8-11)
II. Affixing our eyes on Jesus is crucial for finishing well. Peter's experience of walking on water demonstrates the importance of fixing our gaze on Jesus, even in the midst of storms and doubts. (Matthew 14:24-31) Despite Peter's momentary fear and doubt, Jesus extended His hand and saved him. Our faith should be anchored in Jesus, the One who initiates and perfects our faith. (Hebrews 12:2)
III. To truly finish well, we must abound in God's grace through Jesus. After Jesus' resurrection, He appeared to the disciples by the Sea of Galilee, where Peter and the others had returned to fishing. Jesus reiterated His call to Peter, asking him three times, "Do you love me?" Each time, Peter affirmed his love for Jesus, and Jesus commissioned him to feed and care for His sheep. (John 21:15-17) This encounter revealed that Peter had previously based his identity on his own merits and achievements, rather than on God's grace. But now, Peter understood the significance of God's grace and the sacrificial love of Jesus.
Just as Peter experienced total forgiveness and full restoration of his relationship with Jesus, we too can find grace in our failures. Grace doesn't lower God's standards; it fulfills them through the sacrificial suffering of Jesus. (John 21) It is through God's grace that we are redeemed and brought into a right relationship with Him. (1 Peter 1:18-19)
In conclusion, to finish well in our faith, let us attune our ears to Jesus' call, affix our eyes on Him, and abound in God's grace through Jesus. Remember, even in our failures, God's grace is available to us, offering forgiveness and restoration. May we embrace God's grace and strive to finish well in our faith journey.
Discuss this Message
Discuss this Message
How do trials strengthen your faith?
What does “abounding in grace“ mean?
What are some practical ways to “attune your ears” and “affix your eyes “ on JESUS?
Report abuse