And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh
one of the maids of the high priest:67 And when she saw Peter warming
himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus
of Nazareth. 68 But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand
I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch; and the cock crew.
–Mark 14:66-68 (KJV)
Confessing Jesus Christ as savior appears on the surface
to be an uncomplicated matter. If we know Him, we will admit to
the fact, and freely confess we are followers. However, we know
this confession is not always so easy. In countries around the
world the confession might get you arrested, persecuted, beaten, or
killed. But even in places such as the United States where we
enjoy religious freedom we often fail to freely confess as we should.
Does a failure to confess constitute a denial of Christ? The answer
lies in whether or not we left any doubt in the minds of those to whom
we are called to witness. As we walk through our daily lives we
are not exactly wearing signs which identify us as Christ’s followers,
even though they will know us by our fruits, as Jesus said (Matthew
7:16, 20). Demonstrating we are followers of Jesus by the way
we live is mandatory, but more subtle. Often times an open confession
is required.
Many years ago when I was in college, I was acquainted
with a student from India whose name was Darshana. She possessed
many Christ-like characteristics; she was kind, considerate, patient,
and careful with her speech. One day I asked her if she held any
spiritual beliefs. She stated she believed nothing and held no
spiritual or religious beliefs of any kind. I asked her if she
did, was there any spiritual beliefs she might consider. She said
if she were to pursue any religious or spiritual beliefs it would probably
be Buddhism. I encouraged her to become a Christian, but she politely
declined. I have no idea whatever became of her, but I pray my
confession of Christ might one day take root in her life.
Never assume people know we are followers of Christ,
for we must let them know through godly examples and verbal testimonies.
Simon Peter, Jesus’ disciple, had an opportunity to confess Jesus
Christ. However, he allowed fear and the uncertainty of what would
happen to discourage him. Peter was so fearful that he actually
denied knowing Christ. I am certain as the events unfolded before
him, the trial, flogging, and crucifixion of Jesus that Peter was a
miserable man.
Following the resurrection, Peter found redemption
and forgiveness for his denial. Later, when the early church began
in earnest, Peter became one of its most outspoken advocates.
Tradition holds the authorities crucified Peter upside down because
of his confession of Christ. As we celebrate the resurrection
of Christ, let us commit ourselves anew to witnessing for the Lord and
telling others about the blessings of having a relationship with Him.
Confess freely – Jesus is Lord.
God bless you this Easter weekend.
