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NASB | Matthew 13:20 "The one on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, this is the man who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 13:20 "The one on whom seed was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and at once welcomes it with joy; |
Subject: Joyfully accepting Jesus but not saved? |
Bible Note: Piper: The account of Peter at the time of the crucifixtion is touching. What tremendrous pressure he came under. He was the one who was always a man of action and even in Gethsemane he knocked of the ear of the high Priest's servant. He was ready to defend the Lord. The Lord Jesus Christ knew Peter's heart. Peter is the one who proclaimed bodly "Thou art the Christ the Son of the living God". Jesus said, "Blessed art thou, Sinmon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood has not revealled it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven" Matt. 16:17 We find that he is entrusted with the "keys of the kingdom of heaven" v.19 This is fulfilled later when he has the privilege of proclaiming the gospel to the Jew first, to the Sumaritians and to the Gentiles. Jesus also knew the trials Peter would face, he tells him "Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat, But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not..."Luke22:31-32) Imagine to have a promise from Christ himself "I have prayed for thee" As the crowd demonstrate their total rejection and hatred of Christ, Peter follows afar off. Peter tried to warm himself at the worlds fire, but could not blend in. His speech betrayed him and yes he lied and as the Lord predicted he denied him 3 times. Did the Lord give up on him? Never, "When the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. What a look was this, a look which melted Peter's heart and caused him to weep bitterly. After his resurrection the risen Lord ask's Peter this question 3 times "Lovest thou me" and told him to "feed my sheep" To have the confidence and love of the one he once betrayed must have given Peter much joy. Even though he betrayed the Lord, the Lord is faithful to him. Peter preached boldly "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" Acts.4:12 Peter is listed with the greats who gave their all for Christ and yet he is an example of the truth "we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." 2 Cor. 4:7 Peace in his Name Robert |