God's unique plan for you is all about Jesus

Text: John 21:18-25

Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the rooster will not crow till you have denied me three times." (John 13:26-28)

This earlier proclamation by Peter in chapter thirteen was based on his arrogance, self-reliance, and inaccurate understanding of Scripture. Will Peter make good on this promise?

We've spent eighty-five weeks in the gospel of John! In this final section, John's commentary on Peter's future martyrdom brings the great overarching theme of the entire Bible into view: "This he said to show by what kind of death he (Peter) was to glorify God." (John 21:19a) Then Jesus states, "Follow me." (John 21:19b)

According to our text, Peter's end would do just that--glorify God. Peter would make good on his Last Supper promise! He now understands the grace and forgiveness of Jesus. He understands that it's not about him, but it's about Jesus for God's glory.

Jesus reminds Peter that he must not be concerned about God's will for others; he is responsible only for his own life and faithfulness. Peter lived for thirty more years with the prediction of crucifixion hanging over him. But regardless, he keeps following Jesus!

All of life and death is appointed for the glory of God. Unlike us, Peter may have known what type of death he would die. But we all have been appointed to die. It probably won't be martyred for our faith, but we should see our life and our death as an opportunity to glorify God. Paul wrote, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21).

May we follow Jesus all of our days and live without fear of death. May we not look over our shoulder and complain to God about unfairness? Let's follow Jesus. Let's encourage others. And let's receive their encouragement. And God will be glorified in our life and in our death and in our church community!