November 9, 2017. Matthew 26, Mark 14.

In Order. Denial.

When you are among those who have similar beliefs, at church, family, small groups, whatever the case maybe; it is easy to act like a “Christian”.  It is easy to remember that you are a follower of Christ and not so hard to speak the Christian slang.  Everyone who has grown up in church or has been a Christian for a while knows the jargon: “I am praying for you” “Great fellowshipping with you” “Praying God will continue to bless you and your home”.   It becomes habit and we slip into these roles when around those certain people. 

But what about when you around others who are non-believers, friends who do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ?  How do they look at you? Do they know about your relationship with Christ? Do they question it? Do you deny it?

It is ok if you are struggling with answering some of these questions and maybe even feeling a little guilty. See, even one of Jesus’ disciples denied knowing him, three times he denied him, and Christ knew he would. Now that is not an excuse to say “ok well if Peter did it, I can do it too.” It is a reminder that you may fail, but be aware of it, and learn from it.

Matthew 26:33-35

Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will.”

“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”

But Peter declarde, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.

Matthew 26:75

Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.

How many times have you been in a position that you have denied Christ? How many times have you had the opportunity to share about the love Christ has for everyone, but you were ashamed of the relationship you have with him? We are human and wrestle daily with our sinful flesh, but it is how we act when we are among those who are not saved that sometimes matters the most.  We are to shine His light and not be ashamed to share his love to everyone around us. What will you do the next time you are questioned or put into a situation where you have a choice, will you deny knowing him or will you use the opportunity to show a little of His love for someone else? Would you deny him?