The Transformation of the Rock-Man
This morning, I found myself drawn back to the epistle of Peter, the letter of the rock-man himself. Steady, hard, and unshaken, his words resonate with a rugged authenticity.
It's astounding how this tough fisherman, whose name means "rock," could be so profoundly transformed by the kindness, love, and grace of Jesus. In the Bible, we encounter Peter as a man of strong convictions, a quick thinker, and a passionate defender of his beliefs.
On the Mount of Transfiguration, it was Peter who impulsively suggested building dwellings for Moses and Elijah, believing them worthy of such honor. He sought to elevate them to the same level as Jesus, an impossible feat.
Abba Himself intervened, saying, "This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him." The law and prophets vanished, and Peter realized their limitations.
Even when faced with the threat of arrest, Peter drew his sword to defend Jesus, the Maker of heaven and earth. However, he soon realized that his actions, fueled by anger, were mitigated by love.
Transformation for the Toughest of the Tough
Peter's initial transformation began through his walks with Jesus, but it was truly solidified when he received the Holy Spirit on Pentecost day. Despite his toughness, fear had driven him into hiding.
Yet, upon receiving the Spirit of Jesus, Peter walked with newfound confidence. The very next day, he preached to 3,000 people, leading them to Jesus and healing the sick. His actions were no longer driven by shame but by the empowering grace of God.
The Revelation of Grace
Peter's words in 2 Peter 1:2-3 reveal the profound transformation that grace brings:
Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge
The Greek word for "knowledge" here is epiginōskō, which means "to become thoroughly acquainted with, to know thoroughly." This intimate knowledge of God sets us free.
Intimacy in Grace
Knowledge and grace move us from a rigid state of self-reliance to a fluid state of motion with the Spirit. Peter's words evoke a beautiful proposal, inviting us into a deep relationship with the Groom, Jesus Christ.
It's a marriage-like invitation, inviting us to walk with Him, abide in Him, as He abides in us. This is the ultimate level of relationship, a profound intimacy with the divine.