The Denial

Introduction

we begin this series: Journey to the cross!

The purpose of this is to walk through the stages of the final moments in the earthly ministry of Jesus. What was happening up until the crucifixion. We know from an over-arching view of the Ultimate life giving sacrifice Jesus made on our behalf. He who knew no sin, became sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God. Jesus died on the Old rugged cross, went down in the Grave .. and the 3rd day morning He Rose!!!

This is celebrated in churches weekly, and we celebrate and shout in this glorious act of the Pardoning of our sin. . . but many take for-granted this act. We cheapen the sacrifice of the fathers only son and so we endeavor to walk through (very quickly) the last moments leading to the death of Christ.

the denial-trials-cruxifixion-death/burial

many faith traditions do this in 10-14 phases, we attempt to give a 30k foot view of what takes place

Week one

March 7

Key verse Luke 22:31-34; Luke 22:54-62

The Denial

Luke 22:31–34 ESV

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.”

and

Luke 22:54–62 ESV

Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest’s house, and Peter was following at a distance. And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, “This man also was with him.” But he denied it, saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” And a little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not.” And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, “Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.

Peter Denied, We Deny Too!!!

Give a slight overview of what’s happening in the text.

Its passover, everyone is making the trip to be a part of this festive ceremony.

as this is taking place; the chief priest are trying to find a way to kill Jesus.

Why are they so out to get Jesus? Great question.

We could list enough to speak on for hours; but to put it simply. . let’s see what the scriptures say. Go back to luke 19:47-48

Luke 19:47–48 ESV

And he was teaching daily in the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the principal men of the people were seeking to destroy him, but they did not find anything they could do, for all the people were hanging on his words.

The people, the crowds, everyone were hanging on to His words. His words had power and life. It was life changing words, life altering words; and the religious leaders wanted Him (Jesus) gone.

We are approaching Passover in this text- the Feast of Unleavened bread. This is the day of remembrance of what took place in the day of Moses when God passed over all of the homes of the Children of Israel, who had the blood of the lamb on their doorposts. All of the first born of the Egyptians were killed and a great cry was heard throughout the land.

This was a celebration of the faithfulness of God to his word, and another great display of his power.

Peter’s denials

Verse 56-57- 1st Denial of Pretension/Association

Richard C.H. Lenski quote: Every time we deny Jesus we neglect who he is, the Son of God. We then show we fear the thoughts and opinions of men more than we fear and reverence God.

Secret Denials Lk 22: 54

Peter followed at a distance

many supposed Christ followers are here. Just a nominal follower or fan of Jesus. Love what He can do, fascinated about His abilities and how he radically changes the world.

This is no different than fans who fill arenas and stadiums to cheer on their teams or favorite players.

You marvel over their ability. . you may purchase the apparel. . follow them on social media. But, in actuality you know them.

unfortunately, many of us fall into this category. we love the fellowships, the associations, the t-shirts, the extra-curricular activities, the services the church provides and offers.

yet. . . .

tragically- you deny Christ daily!

no prayer

no scripture reading

no sharing your faith

you h

here locally at BMBC- Pastor Orr asks if nothing else; people can like and share : Bible study, weekend services. . devotional blogs..... and some still will not do that which is simple to spread the gospel.

so don’t look at Peter saying how could you?! many of us do it daily

Safe Denials: Lk 22: 57-59

peter acts like he doesn’t know whats going on

Verse 58- 2nd Denial of Discipleship

How we deny Jesus corporately and individually? Is that you?

Active Denial vs. Passive Denial

not making disciples

Shameless Denial (overt) Lk 22:60

Denies any dealings with Jesus

Peter a Galilean

3rd Denial –of Ignorance v. 60

Many unfortunately turn away from God

Peter did not ultimately turn away; but in the moment, he coward down from his oath that he would go with the Lord to prison and to death.