Coming On Our Knees
From the sixth century hymn writer, Romanus Melodus, we have this hymn about Peter’s
threefold denial of Jesus. Read this hymn aloud (as poetry) and then spend a few minutes in
prayer before you begin your study.
Forgetful of the fearful waves
And changed by the remark of the maiden,
Peter said, “Christ God,
When I was sinking in the waves, I was
frightened, and with reason.
Calling out to you, I have fallen, through my
denial;
But weeping, I cry to you,
Hasten, Holy One, save your sheep.”
But as I find a pilot for the future
I flee to you for refuge as to a harbor.
Lord, I shall shed my tears of intercession to
you,
And hence I shall cry out to you;
“Hasten, Holy One, save your sheep.”
O Good Shepherd, you who have placed
His Spirit in the flocks,
Hasten, Holy One, save your sheep
Another kind of deep water is here on land,
the maidservant;
(Excerpted from Kontakion on Peter’s Denial 18, Prooimion 1-3.) (
Pray: Ask God to be present and honoured by your study. Ask for hearts open to be changed by
the word of God and by his Spirit.
Connecting with One Another:
Invite the group to share a few lighthearted stories about blunders/embarrassing situations
where they wished they could have a do-over button to push.
Listening to the Word:
Read the week’s study text aloud together. John 18:12-27.
What we have in this passage is the recording of an ancient Jewish trial. Peter’s denials of Jesus
are perhaps his own trial of courage interspersed. What elements of a trial can you identify in
the passage? What elements of this trial point to conspiracy and perversion of justice?
Peter’s denial of Jesus was mentioned in this week’s sermon as the low point of Peter’s whole
life. But Peter had many good qualities and moments of great faith too. What elements of the
story commend his faith? What other events from his life can you remember that commend
him?
There is a curious reference in our passage, verse 14, which refers to another point in John’s
Gospel where Caiaphas is used as a prophet. The reference is John 11:45-53. Read this
together.
•
How does this prophecy colour the character of the trial where Caiaphas stands as
judge? How do you see the interplay of God’s will and man’s schemes in this passage?
This text was presented at church in connection with its conclusion in John 21:15-19. Read this
passage aloud.
How many times does Peter deny Jesus? How many times in the follow up does Jesus ask him
about his love?
Each time Peter professes his love for Jesus in the conclusion, he is given an affirmation—a
restoration—of his apostolic ministry. Discuss how forgiveness of sin and restoration to
vocation are important.
•
How does this apply to marriage? To parenthood? To parent/child or sibling
relationships? In your profession? To your enemies?
In Peter’s denials he lacks courage ultimately because he fears death. In the conclusion, he is
restored, and Jesus predicts that Peter will indeed face death for Jesus someday. What do you
suppose must change for Peter to have the courage to face death? (Hint for group leader: the
Holy Spirit was not yet given in chapter 18.)
What are some ways that you have failed to have courage when your faith in Jesus demanded
it? Share your stories if you’re comfortable.
What are some ways that you’ve been restored and forgiven even after you’ve sinned/failed?
How have you experienced the whole-life healing that Jesus provides when we repent?
Responding in Prayer
Close your time in prayer. Spend time thanking God for the courage and obedience of
Jesus to endure this mock trial. Thank God for his Holy Spirit who fills us with courage.
Ask God to give you insight into areas of your life where you still need to be restored.
Ask God for healing for areas where we have fallen in the past. Thank God for his whole-life
restoration.
Coming up next week
Next weeks sermon will be based on the following passage:
John 18:28-40- “Pilate Part 1- What is Truth?”