A Disciple's Strength

In Matthew 26:31-35, Jesus warns His disciples that they will fall away that very night, fulfilling the prophecy that says, "I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered." Peter, full of confidence, insists that even if everyone else stumbles, "he will never fall away". Jesus responds solemnly, predicting that before the "rooster crows", Peter will "deny Him three times". Still, Peter refuses to accept this, declaring that he would "die before denying Jesus"—and the other disciples echo his sentiment. This passage highlights the tension between human "intentions and weakness", foreshadowing Peter’s eventual denial and the disciples’ fear. It’s a powerful reminder of "grace and restoration", as Jesus later reinstates Peter despite his failure.