A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 14:29-31)

“Peter declared, ‘Even if all fall away, I will not.’ ‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.’ But Peter insisted emphatically, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the others said the same.” (Mark 14:29-31)

In Mark 14:29–31, Jesus responded to Peter’s declaration that he would not fall away: “‘Truly I tell you,’” Jesus answered, ‘today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.’ But Peter insisted emphatically, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the others said the same.” Although Peter wasn’t the only one with a strong commitment to stand firm, he was certainly the most vocal about it. He also fell the hardest. Arrogance and self-will was Peter’s undoing. It would have been better had he said nothing but rather prayed for God’s mercy and strength to sustain him when the trial came. Devotion is proved by action, not words. Peter also misjudged his strength. Serving leaders know their vulnerabilities, relying on the Holy Spirit rather than on human resolve. Humility that springs from a self-awareness of limitations sets them up for success.

KEY QUESTIONS: In what areas of my life do I currently need to prove devotion through action? What are my current limitations and weaknesses? Why is self-awareness regarding my strengths and weaknesses important? Since I cannot perceive my own arrogance, how might I prevent it?