September 11, 2021: Hope Is Found in the Next Chapter

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“That where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:1, NKJV).

One of my favorite passages begins in John 13. Peter loves Jesus so much that he believes he would never fail Him.

In this story, Jesus says He will be with the disciples only a little while longer. The disciples are distraught by these words, which leads Peter to say, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus replies, “Where I am going you cannot follow Me now, but you shall follow me afterward” (John 13:36, NKJV).

In verse 37, Peter passionately responds, “Lord, why can I not follow You now? I will lay down my life for Your sake.” Jesus replies, “Will you lay down your life for My sake? Most assuredly, I say to you, the rooster shall not crow till you have denied Me three times” (verse 38).

Peter thought He was walking so closely with Jesus that he would never fail Him, but Jesus makes it clear that Peter, who is relying on his own commitment and strength, was going to deny Him three times.

Like Peter, I have felt strong in my faith and commitment, only to later fall and hang my head in shame. Fortunately, this passage does not end here. When the Bible was written, it did not include chapter and verse divisions. These were added later by translators. This means that chapter 14 is a continuous thought from chapter 13.

Jesus continues, “Let not your heart be troubled. ... I go to make a place for you [in heaven]. ... [and] will come again” (Luke 14:1–3, NKJV). Jesus was determined to save Peter, and I praise God He is determined to save you and me.

Lord, help us to stay close to You and never leave Your side. Amen.

Mike Hewitt was the president of the Mountain View Conference at the time the book was published.