Mark 8:32 And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.
33 But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.
Introductory Thoughts
Many have erroneously assumed that the disciples readily accepted Christ’s teachings concerning His death, burial, and resurrection. When Simon Peter first heard the Lord teach on the subject, he immediately took the Lord and rebuked Him for what He said. The Lord Jesus responded by rebuking Peter, going so far as calling him Satan. Peter rebuked the Lord because the Lord’s teaching did not align with Peter’s perception and plans. He had no authority for rebuking the Lord and should have submitted himself to the Lord’s teaching. Some things have changed, but some have not. Believers today “rebuke” the Lord when they respond carnally to God’s working within their lives. They fail to realize their duty is to submit to the Lord.
Devotional thoughts
∙ (For children): Because the disciples were in a storm and were afraid, they asked the Lord if He cared. They should have known better (Mark 4:37-40). Martha asked the Lord the same question (Luke 10:38-42).
∙ (For everyone): What are some ways in which believers can rebuke the Lord? What does it suggest when we complain about something the Lord allows to enter into our lives?
∙ What does it suggest about the condition of your heart when you begin to rebuke the Lord’s teaching and working in your life? How did this fare for Peter? How will it fare for you?
Prayer Thoughts
∙ Ask the Lord to help you accept His will in your life.
∙ Ask the Lord to soften your heart to His truth.
SONG: TBD