Not Just Words

“Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life,” (John 6:68 ESV)

Jesus’ time with His disciples was a time of teaching. Sometimes, Jesus veiled his words in parables, and sometimes, He was disturbingly clear. In this passage, Jesus was disturbingly clear yet veiled in his words. Jesus had just spoken about eating His flesh and drinking His blood, which those in the synagogue took literally, as did his disciples. Many of his so-called “disciples” turned away from Him; mostly, His Apostles remained.

In Peter’s response, he spoke the truth. Where else were they to go? They had come to believe that he was the Christ, the Mashiach. They believed he was the Son of God, who gave eternal life. The twelve had seen the miracles performed by Jesus, calming storms, raising the dead, and feeding thousands. They believed in Jesus.

When we come to Christ, He asks us to examine the many voices that impact our lives. Debates for the next president have occurred. Governors and mayors speak and impact our lives. Society as a whole has a voice that detracts from the message of God. We must even evaluate our religious leaders’ messages and representation of the Gospel. Only Jesus saves us; we can do nothing. Only His voice calls us to a heavenly eternity. Any other voice is a wolf among sheep. Where else can we go? Only Christ has the words of eternal life. Thank you, Peter.

Even after Peter denied Jesus three times, Jesus embraced Peter three times. “When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” (John 21:15 ESV). Just as Peter failed, we will fail. But Christ continues to redeem us. Let no other voice lead you where it wants you to go. Only Jesus has the words that are the key to eternity with Him.

Grace and Mercy!

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