Scripture
“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?' 'Yes, Lord,' he said, 'you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.' " (John 21:15 )
Observation
Just a few chapters earlier - In the Gospels, Peter had denied Jesus three times. Now on the beach three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed his sheep.
It is one thing to say you love Jesus, but the real test is the willingness to serve Him.
Peter had repented, and here Jesus was asking him to commit his life. Peter’s life changed when he finally realized who Jesus was. The whole reason for this interaction of Jesus and Peter was to let Peter know that Jesus loved him dearly and that he had NOT been cast out of the group.
Application
We must demonstrate just like Peter did - By putting Jesus first in our lives. Put Him first in our minds, hearts, bodies, finances, marriages, parenting, driving, and every aspect of our lives. Let me give you an example of putting Jesus first:
When Jesus said, “Do you love me more than these.” What does the word “these” refer?. • “Do you love Me more than your occupation—or is work your highest priority?” • “Do you love Me more than these disciples, more than those fish, more than that boat? Richard - do you love Me, more?” The word Jesus uses is agapao (agga – pao)—the highest kind of love (To Love).Agape is the God’s Unconditional Love.“Do you love Me with a perfect kind of love?”
Prayer
Lord You know I love you more than these! I will serve You, Lord. Whatever You ask of me, is what I will do. Lord I pray, whatever You show me, ask of me and point out to me - Lord, my love for You is stronger and I will serve. In Jesus Name I Pray. Amen.
