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When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” -John 21:15
Jesus made Peter say it.
This Sunday, we sit by the fire and eavesdrop on a powerful conversation between Simon Peter and Jesus, who has been raised from the dead. They were alone, and Jesus asked Simon Peter if he loved him three different times, which was the same number of times Peter denied him. Yes, of course, Jesus already knew Simon’s heart, but he wanted Simon Peter to verbally, outwardly say that he loved Him three times. He needed to know he was forgiven, because it is hard to feed God’s sheep if you do not first know you are forgiven. So Jesus made him say it. So we do; we confess our sins, and our Lord forgives us. We believe that we are forgiven, and we say it!
In the third article of the Apostle’s Creed, we proclaim ….
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Martin Luther expounds upon this in the explanation in the small catechism stating, “In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers.” The Apostle John tells us If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)
Jesus makes it clear Peter is forgiven and free to follow Him. Jesus said, “Follow me!” Peter did, and so do we.
May the forgiveness of our Lord Jesus restore your soul that you might glorify Him in all things. See you Sunday - I can’t wait!
Pastor Austin
PRAYER:
Jesus, we are sorry for the sins we have committed. Thank you for forgiving us, renewing us, and leading us with the assurance of your forgiveness. We do love you, and we thank you for loving us.
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