“Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in heaven.'” Matthew 16:16-17
“Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. ‘Never, Lord!’ he said. ‘This shall never happen to you!’ Jesus turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.'” Matthew 16:22-23
When Peter spoke under the anointing, his words expressed the counsel of God. But when Christ told the disciples that His time of death was near, Peter rebuked the very idea of Jesus being killed. Peter’s response was understandable from a human point of view, but it was not in agreement with God’s perspective. The Savior came to die on the cross, and by opposing God’s divine plan, Peter’s flesh placed him in agreement with Satan. Those who believe should always seek God before taking a stand or proceeding with our own agenda. This will keep us from inadvertently denying our rightful place as God’s holy servants—only to become Satan’s mouthpiece.
Dear Father,
Help us to remember that even the best sounding idea can be a trick of the enemy. Thank you for your Word and for your Holy Spirit—as He keeps us from deception and guides us into all truth. We are your holy servants. Let our words consistently reflect your wisdom, proclaim your purpose, and bring you glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
For Further Study:
Proverbs 3:5-6 / Proverbs 19:21
Proverbs 14:12
Psalm 19:14 / Colossians 3:17
John 6:63 / John 14:16-17
John 12:26 / 1 Peter 2:9
1 Peter 5:8
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