The Evolution of Peter (Week 2)
When we read familiar passages carefully, we often notice details that open our eyes to a new and rich truth that challenges our way of thinking and living. The story of Jesus’ arrest and Peter’s ensuing denial is a breathtaking account of the Gospel and a sobering challenge to our own denials.
1. How have you typically pictured Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane? What was the garden like? How many people came with Judas to arrest Jesus?
2. On Sunday, Pete talked about the Garden being an area where the many travelers that came for Passover would have been camped out and that the Roman Speira that accompanied Judas would have been between 600-1,000 soldiers. How does that context impact how you imagine this story? Why do you think Judas showed up with such a significant display of force?
Read John 18:1-6.
3. In the original translation Jesus identifies himself simply with “I AM.” What is Jesus doing there? Why is that important? (Think Old Testament names of God.)
4. How does the Roman army respond to this simple identification? Why is their response important to understanding Jesus arrest?
Read John 18:10-11.
5. Given the new context, what do you think Peter is thinking when he lunges forward to cut the ear of the guard?
6. Take a few minutes to silently reflect on this question before sharing your thoughts with the group. Where do you blindly look to God to fulfill your hopes, dreams, and expectations? How might Jesus be telling you to “put your sword away”?
Read John 18:15-17.
7. Consider for a moment that Peter is not afraid. How does this change our understanding of His denial? How has Jesus let him down? How do your expectations of Jesus set you up for a similar denial?
8. Peter is not the only disciple to deny Jesus in this story, clearly Judas does as well. Why do you think we look sympathetically on Peter and yet villainize Judas?
