Do You Love Me?

Have you ever been asked a question over and over to the point that you began to doubt yourself? Peter can relate.

After Jesus’ crucifixion He spent forty days with His disciples. In John 21, after the disciples had a meal with Jesus, He turned to Peter who had denied Him three times. He asked, “Do you love Me?”

Peter replied, “Yes Lord.” Jesus replied, “Feed my lambs.” Three times Jesus asked Peter the same question and gave the same response. The third time Peter was hurt because who else knew him better, than Jesus.

This repetitive question suggested to Peter He was dishonest. Nonetheless, I appreciate Matthew Henry’s comment, “Jesus did not only forgive Peter’s offence…but also forgot it.”

Not once did Jesus mention his past, but instead He challenged him to prove his sincerity by taking care of his flock. You see, when we also do the same, “He will overlook, and nothing more will be said about our mistakes.” Matthew Henry

In connection with the same event at the beach, I love Matthew Henry's comment, “It is a terror to hypocrites to think that Christ knows all things. But it is an encouragement to sincere Christians, that Christ knows us better than we know ourselves.”Jesus saw the repentant heart of Peter. He saw his anxious thought, that said, "What else does Jesus know that I do not." Jesus knew his trembling heart, that feared he would never make it. Yet He could also hear the silent prayer that hid behind Peter's doubtful heart, "Lord I want to be faithful till the end."

I will tell you something He knows about you, but you thought He did not.

In Romans 7, Paul shares his struggles, he wants to do good but evil prevails then in verse 16, he writes, “I agree with the law that it is good.” Paul acknowledges there is nothing wrong with the law. He wants his life to abide by it, and God knows this.

Therefore, dear reader, it is a sweet comfort to know, even though your own heart fails and struggles to trust God’s promises, Jesus sees your deepest longing and efforts to be a loving husband, and a patient wife. He knows the depth of that prayer that starts and ends, “Lord, have mercy on me” ….Yes, Jesus knows the many words you wish you would have said, but feel you lack the right words to bring before heaven. Jesus knows, hence why He has taken the role to be your lawyer. (Romans 8:33-34)