UNCOMMEN: 180 Degrees of ChangeSample

Peter

Focus verse: Mark 14:71 — "Then he began to curse and swear, 'I do not know this Man of whom you speak!'"

In Mark 14, Peter denies Jesus. He commits a sin. Yet, we see Peter later in Acts 2:14-38, preaching the Gospel. Christians have reconciliation through Christ.

I love Peter because I'm probably more like him than anyone in the Bible.

• Says the wrong things
• Does the wrong things
• Thinks the wrong things

But God uses Peter despite all of that to spread the Gospel of Jesus. While the Bible shines a light on this moment in Peter's life for all the world to see forever, we've probably been in that same place. 

We are at a family function, and you say something about your faith in some way. Someone there says, "you believe in all that fairy tale stuff?" Or they may say something more aggressive. Either way, you are now the center of attention, and what you say matters all of a sudden. Peer pressure can sneak up on you, and you may find that you play your faith down, try to change the subject, or swear you don't do that stuff.

I'm here to encourage us all to stand true to our faith in times like this. As long as you're not the "Ugly Christian" and are the reason people may not come to Christ, then, by all means, state, "yes, I am a follower of Jesus." Then if you are savvy, you ask, "are you?" They may scoff and move on. They may give you a reason as to why they are not, or it may open a conversation for the Holy Spirit. 

We may not have to stop traffic to tell the world of our relationship with Jesus, but we shouldn't hide it either. If they ask you why you believe, then give your answer. It's important to know why you believe in Jesus.

The 180

Peter had three chances to express his involvement with Jesus and chose not to express it. But even that didn't stop him from spreading the Gospel. So if you don't do so well in that situation, pray that God will strengthen you and give you another chance to answer that.

For the record: I am a follower of Jesus Christ.

I hope you can say that with me and out loud when needed.

Uncommen Questions:

Are you a follower of Jesus? Do you know him as your Savior?

Are you ready to answer when asked about your faith? (with truth and grace)

Uncommen Challenge:

I challenge you and me to pray for wisdom, be reading God's word, and be ready to answer with truth and grace.

Scripture Reference:
Mark 14:66-72