Sunday Morning Series - The Right Stuff - What About John?

Text: John 21

What are the enemies of gratefulness? I've always said, "Don't let Satan turn your blessings into curses." Today, Pastor Steve added more to my understanding of how that occurs. I like his version better: "Don't allow unthankfulness to corrupt your blessings."

Despair is an enemy of gratitude. When you start asking the following questions, watch out!

1. What do I do now?

2. Was the time I gave for nothing?

These kind of questions produce a fertile ground for Satan's seeds of sin. He's always trying to get us to question God's purpose, punctuality, Word, love, gifts, and plan.

After Jesus' resurrection, the disciples saw him. However, they knew his earthly ministry was over. What were they supposed to do now? Their jobs had been eliminated. They no longer ushered, took the offering, assisted with ministry, etc.

Peter decides to go back to his old trade of fishing. Several other disciples join him. Well, they go fishing, but don't catch anything. As they head back toward shore, they see someone on the beach. One of the disciples recognizes Jesus. Peter pulls on his coat and swims to shore. The scripture doesn't say it, but I think maybe he might have wanted some one-on-one time with Jesus. After all, he'd denied Jesus three times.

Jesus asks Peter if he loves him. He uses the Greek word, "agape," for love, which is the God-kind of love of total commitment. Peter answers that he loves Jesus with the Greek word, "phileo," or friendship love. He's honest. He remembers his failure, and can't say for certain if he can totally commit. Jesus gives him special assignments: feed my lambs (new believers) and feed my sheep (shepherd the flock). Peter is to be a fisher of men not fish. He's given a second chance. He's not cast aside because of his failure.

By this time, the others join them. Jesus prophesies over Peter concerning his future martrydom. Peter points to John and asks the Lord what about his future. Jesus tells him that's not his concern. How many times do we get envious of other's ministries or giftings? Just remember that greater callings and greater gifts require more maintenance and sacrifice.

When I despair, I specifically doubt God's purpose, plan, and punctuality. When I feel like a failure, I specifically doubt God's Word, plan, and gifts. When I envy, I specifically doubt God's purpose, plan, and love.