THE PROCESS OF PETER’S FALL

Matthew 26:31-35, 66-72

Overconfidence• Matt. 26:33-35• Sometimes the most knowledgeable and

experienced have a weakness 1 Corinthians 8:1-2

• Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall”

• Peter was insistent even after Jesus’ warning Luke 22:31-34

Unpreparedness

• Peter said, “I am ready” Luke 22:33• He thought he was prepared for Satan’s attack

Luke 22:35-38• Peter was not expecting the attack Satan used

against him• Peter did try to defend Jesus John 18:8-11• But Satan also used peer pressure • Peter gave in to it in Antioch Gal. 2:11-14

Distance from Godly Influence

• Peter followed at a distance Matthew 26:58• He forsook Jesus when all the disciples did• They scattered… each was alone Matt. 26:31• Actually, John got Peter in to the courtyard of

the high priest John 18:15-16• Peter had the perfect opportunity to keep his

promise, but he did not v.17• He denied the Lord as soon as he went in

Comfort with Worldly Company

• Peter stood with them and warmed himself John 18:18, Psalm 1:1

Psalm 1:1

“Blessed is the manWho walks not in the counsel of the

ungodly,Nor stands in the path of sinners,Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;”

Comfort with Worldly Company

• Peter stood with them and warmed himself John 18:18, Psalm 1:1

• Peter denies twice more after Jesus is mistreated at trial John 18:19-27

• They also questioned Jesus about his disciples v.19

• He has to continue to lie not to be exposed as lying the first time

Applications• We can learn from Peter’s example 2 Cor. 2:11• We all fall 1 John 1:7-10• Beware of pride, overconfidence in self• 1 Corinthians 10:12 “let him who thinks he

stands take heed lest he fall” • Arm yourself to survive 1 Peter 5:8, Eph. 6:10-20• Seek to be with godly influences• Avoid associations that discourage your faith • 1 Cor. 15:33 “Do not be deceived: evil company

corrupts good habits."

A Happy Ending• Peter realized his failure and left Luke 22:61-62• He wept bitterly • It was godly sorrow that produced repentance 2

Corinthians 7:10• He returned and was restored John 21• He was given the keys to the kingdom Matt.

16:18• He used the gospel to open the door for all of us

who have fallen and need forgiveness Acts 2:38