The Forging of a True Warrior
Luke 22:31–38
Luke 22:31–38
- The sermon contrasts Michael Jordan’s relentless competitiveness (which fueled greatness but also likely harmed relationships) with Peter’s overconfident spirit. Where have you seen a drive to “prove yourself” or out-perform others creep into your life—perhaps in work, relationships, or even ministry—and how has it been a blessing or a burden?
- Jesus prayed not that Peter would avoid the “sifting” but that his faith would survive it. Think of a time when you felt “sifted” (shaken by failure, suffering, or humiliation). Looking back, how did God use it to shift your confidence from yourself to Him? Or, if you’re in a sifting season now, how does knowing Jesus is praying for your faith to endure change your perspective?
- The rooster’s crow became a moment of “severe mercy” that shattered Peter’s pride. Can you share an experience where a painful moment (a failure, confrontation, or consequence) exposed your self-reliance and ultimately drew you closer to Jesus? How did you hear the “rooster crowing” (conviction) as grace rather than condemnation?
- In John 21, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love Me?” (the first time adding “more than these”) and ends with “What is that to you? You—follow Me.” Where are you tempted to compare yourself to others (their success, faithfulness, gifts, or calling)? How would your life change if you truly believed you only need to love Jesus and follow Him, without needing to measure up to anyone else?