Meet Marc Bellah

When I read, study, and meditate on a passage of Scripture, I want to understand, as much as possible, the context in which it was originally shared and recorded. As part of understanding context, I try to place myself in the position of the main characters in that passage and consider how I myself might have spoken or reacted. In Matthew 26:30-35, the primary characters are Jesus and the apostle Peter.

Looking first at Peter, I see a guy who, much like myself, is impulsive and reacts quickly based on his feelings. In light of Jesus predicting his denial of Him, Peter's reaction shows a heartfelt devotion to Jesus, which though hasty and arrogant, is also somewhat admirable. But Peter, as I'm also prone to do, allows those feelings of devotion to blind him to the absolute truth Jesus is sharing. I recognize that Peter's feelings, which are sincere, real, and not to be completely discounted, are unreliable in terms of understanding the truth Jesus is imparting.

Second, when I try to place myself in Jesus' position, I have to admit that my response back to Peter's reaction would most likely NOT have been a promise of restored relationship. In verse 32, Jesus says that even in light of the apostles' failure, He will go before them and ultimately restore fellowship with them. My response, again based on my feelings, might have been something along the lines of, "Why have I even bothered? You're all wearing me out like a 70's-era pop song, especially you, Peter." But Jesus doesn't react that way. He tells Peter and the others, with absolute clarity, that His plan will be carried out. And, even in light of a falling away, He will be raised, and fellowship will be restored. It's in the context of this truth, not the feelings, that we see a beautiful picture of God's amazing grace. It's in His truth, not my feelings, that my heart will genuinely be stirred and my eyes opened to His blessing.