How Do I Choose Faith Over Fear When Obedience Costs Me? (John 18) | Daily Devotional & Bible Study

In this episode I share a time in Kenya when I felt caught between fear and faith, and we walk through Jesus' arrest, Peter's denial, and Jesus before Pilate in John 18. We see Jesus' calm authority in the middle of betrayal, and we learn that following Him will stretch us and reshape us. His grace is there for every believer who steps out in faith.

"So Jesus said to Peter, 'Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?'" (John 18:11)

Questions this episode answers

Why did Peter deny Jesus?

Peter was afraid. In a tense moment, self-protection took over and he denied knowing Jesus three times. Jesus knew this would happen and still chose Peter, which shows how big His grace is.

What does it mean that Jesus' kingdom is not of this world?

When Pilate questioned Him, Jesus said His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). His authority does not come from earthly power or armies. He is King in a way that rules hearts and lasts forever.

Does following Jesus mean I will be safe from trouble?

Following Jesus does not exempt us from danger or betrayal, and John 18 shows Jesus Himself facing both. But He is with us in it. We can let Him defend us instead of trying to defend ourselves.

Timestamps

00:00 Fear and Faith: A Personal Journey

02:24 Jesus in the Garden: Calm Amidst Chaos

08:36 The Arrest of Jesus: Authority and Betrayal

17:34 Peter's Denial: Fear and Human Instinct

26:02 Jesus Before Pilate: Truth and Authority

Links

Peter's journey from denial to bold faith took him all the way to Rome, and on our Rome Bible Study Live trip each November we visit the Mamertine prison and talk about the courage God gave him.

Bible Study Live is a small-group Bible study trip with Rachael Groll. Study Scripture where it happened in Rome, or slow down for a contemplative Bible study retreat in Maui. Dates and details at BibleStudyLive.org

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