1. THE PROCESS OF PETER’S FALL Matthew 26:31-35, 66-72

2. Overconfidence Matt. 26:33-35 Sometimes the most knowledgeable and experienced have a weakness 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” Peter was insistent even after Jesus’ warning Luke 22:31-34

3. Unpreparedness Peter said, “I am ready” Luke 22:33 He thought he was prepared for Satan’s attack Luke 22:35-38 Peter was not expecting the attack Satan used against him Peter did try to defend Jesus John 18:8-11 But Satan also used peer pressure Peter gave in to it in Antioch Gal. 2:11-14

4. Distance from Godly Influence Peter followed at a distance Matthew 26:58 He forsook Jesus when all the disciples did They scattered… each was alone Matt. 26:31 Actually, John got Peter in to the courtyard of the high priest John 18:15-16 Peter had the perfect opportunity to keep his promise, but he did not v.17 He denied the Lord as soon as he went in

5. Comfort with Worldly Company Peter stood with them and warmed himself John 18:18, Psalm 1:1

6. Psalm 1:1 “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;”

7. Comfort with Worldly Company Peter stood with them and warmed himself John 18:18, Psalm 1:1 Peter denies twice more after Jesus is mistreated at trial John 18:19-27 They also questioned Jesus about his disciples v.19 He has to continue to lie not to be exposed as lying the first time

8. Applications We can learn from Peter’s example 2 Cor. 2:11 We all fall 1 John 1:7-10 Beware of pride, overconfidence in self 1 Corinthians 10:12 “let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” Arm yourself to survive 1 Peter 5:8, Eph. 6:10-20 Seek to be with godly influences Avoid associations that discourage your faith 1 Cor. 15:33 “Do not be deceived: evil company corrupts good habits."

9. A Happy Ending Peter realized his failure and left Luke 22:61-62 He wept bitterly It was godly sorrow that produced repentance 2 Corinthians 7:10 He returned and was restored John 21 He was given the keys to the kingdom Matt. 16:18 He used the gospel to open the door for all of us who have fallen and need forgiveness Acts 2:38