“Simon Peter’s Transformation Story”

This Holy Week, we’re spending time with seven real people from the Bible. As we go into Easter, we’ll look at their stories—each of whom (with one exception) was transformed by Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection!

I love transformation stories! I enjoy watching an old, neglected house be transformed into a modern and beautiful home because of a group of dedicated renovators. I love watching an old vehicle be restored to its former glory because of a dedicated mechanic. 

And, I love watching the power of God transform a person from broken to whole because His resurrection made it possible!

Simon Peter was a fisherman, rough around the edges, full of passion, and—let's be honest—prone to putting his foot in his mouth! Peter walked on water and then sank like a stone. Peter boldly declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you” (Matthew 26:35, NIV). And then, just hours later, denied Jesus three times, as a rooster crowed (see Matthew 26:69-75).

My friend, we have all been there, haven't we? We make promises and have good intentions, but when the pressure is on, we fail. We let fear dictate our actions. Peter's denial wasn't just a little slip-up, it was a deep betrayal.

But here's the beauty of grace—Jesus didn't discard Peter! He didn't hold his failure against him. After the resurrection, Jesus specifically sought out Peter, not to condemn him, but to restore him (see John 21)! 

Jesus transformed Peter's denial into a foundation of rock-solid faith. He took his weakness and turned it into strength. Peter—the man who once denied Christ—became the rock upon which the church was built. He preached with boldness, he led with courage, and he gave his life for the message of Jesus.

friend, your failures don't define you. Your past mistakes don't disqualify you. Jesus can redeem your regrets. He can take your weaknesses and use them for His glory. He can turn your denials into declarations of faith. Just like Peter, we can experience the transforming power of grace, the forgiveness that sets us free to serve and to love.

Let’s pray together… Jesus, thank you for transforming Peter. We receive your hope as we walk towards the joy of Easter. God, transform our hearts and make our mess, our message—make our pain our platform, and transform our denial into a devotion that can change our world! Amen.

Never forget my friend, you are a miracle!