Peter's Song
E.A. Johnston powerfully portrays Peter's journey from denial to forgiveness and bold proclamation, emphasizing the enduring love and grace of Christ.
In "Peter's Song," E.A. Johnston vividly recounts the emotional and spiritual journey of Peter, from his denial of Christ to his ultimate forgiveness and bold proclamation of the gospel. The sermon highlights the transformative power of Jesus' love and the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own faith journey and the call to serve faithfully despite challenges. Johnston's storytelling brings to life the enduring hope found in Christ's forgiveness and victory.
Full Transcript
The night that came for you still remains so real to me. I struck a man nearby, drew my sword to fight or die. The night was hot and dark as I sat in the courtyard.
A servant girl came by, looked me deep into the eye, pointing her finger, claiming I was with him. The man from Galilee, I do not know the man. I cursed and looked away, and then I saw him.
I saw my master standing there. I saw forgiveness in his stare. They nailed you to the tree.
You shed your blood for me. The love you gave for me will last eternity. After they buried you, I mourned and cried and kicked the ground.
How could you love a friend who turned his back on you like that? Hiding behind locked doors, afraid of the soldiers, we were so confused. Looking up from our meal, you suddenly appeared. I saw my master standing there.
I saw forgiveness in his stare. Serving those as you serve me, the Holy Spirit led. We were bold when we professed.
We preached in your name, releasing those bound in chains. The great commission is to spread the word of Jesus. And then the day arrived when I too was led away to face my cross.
Hanging me upside down, I gasped my last breath and closed my eyes. I saw you there. I saw forgiveness in your stare.
I saw rejoicing in your stare. I saw rejoicing in your stare. My master reigns and I am glad.
Sermon Outline
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I. Peter's Denial and Fear
- Peter denies Jesus three times in the courtyard
- Fear and confusion grip the disciples after Jesus' arrest
- The emotional turmoil of betrayal and loss
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II. Encountering Forgiveness
- Jesus appears to the disciples after resurrection
- Peter experiences Christ's forgiveness and restoration
- The call to serve and love as Jesus did
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III. Empowered by the Holy Spirit
- The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
- Bold proclamation and preaching in Jesus' name
- Releasing those bound in chains through the gospel
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IV. Faithful to the End
- Peter faces martyrdom with courage
- Rejoicing in Christ's reign despite suffering
- The legacy of faithfulness and witness
Key Quotes
“I saw my master standing there. I saw forgiveness in his stare.” — E.A. Johnston
“You shed your blood for me. The love you gave for me will last eternity.” — E.A. Johnston
“I saw rejoicing in your stare. My master reigns and I am glad.” — E.A. Johnston
Application Points
- Embrace Christ's forgiveness even when you feel you have failed Him.
- Allow the Holy Spirit to empower you to boldly share your faith.
- Remain faithful in service to God, regardless of trials or opposition.