HE KNOWS YOUR PLACE

READING: JOHN 21:15-19

Verse 19: “This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him ‘Follow Me.’”

The Lord Jesus has clearly stated His intent for His people to follow Him and His example of godliness. Several scriptures establish this expectation, but it is expressed bluntly and forcefully as  quoted above. The Lord simply and forthrightly commanded Peter to follow Him. It is interesting that immediately following this command, Peter strayed from the focus on following and began to question Jesus regarding the future of John, his fellow disciple. The Lord answered Peter by telling him that John’s future was not his concern, and that it had nothing to do with Peter. The last words from the Lord Jesus to Peter on the subject were essentially a repetition of what He had said previously: “You follow Me”. Basically Jesus was saying that Peter should mind his own business and just follow Him. Not only was that a pointed and vivid lesson for Peter, but it is equally emphatic for us today. Any
one of us can easily become involved in matters that should not concern us. This can distract us from more worthy goals that God has for us. The Father may appreciate our hearts and desires to see other things made right, but His priority is that we first follow Him. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.

RESPONSE

1. What can result if we exceed the boundaries that are intended for us?

2. What would cause you to be a better follower of the Lord?