The company you keep determines who you are, what you do, and how you respond to situations in life. The story was told of a sparrow that got trapped together with ravens that were caught devouring a grain farmland. He pleaded with the farmer who owned the trap to release him. "Why should I release you", the farmer asked. "Because I am not a raven but a sparrow that cannot devour your farm" the sparrow replied. "How come you were caught with the ravens?", "I was only trying to enjoy their company" the sparrow replied. "So, you are being judged because of the company you were in" the farmer concluded.

The story in Luke 22:54-60 is pathetic. Many things could have been responsible for Peter's denial of Jesus, however, let us look at some probable factors. Firstly; the Bible says when they brought Jesus into the high priest's house; Peter followed Him, but afar off. It is dangerous to follow Jesus afar off. Moreover, because it was cold, Peter moved into the hall and sat down with those that were enjoying the warmth of the fire that was set. It is unfortunate today that some so-called believers are enjoying the fire or the warmth of sin in the bosom of strange men and women.
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful" Psalms 1:1

Peter, forgetting that he had the identity of a Galilean, sat in the midst of the residents of Jerusalem and his identity was found out. Many pretend as if they are not Christians, they easily conform to the comfort zones of this world. Whereas, the Bible says:
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:3

Peter did not notice that his location was not good enough for him to maintain his obligation of discipleship to Jesus Christ. And when he was confronted about being a disciple of Jesus, he denied it to the point of swearing.

Beloved, let us learn from Peter's mistakes, following Jesus from afar off is very dangerous to our spiritual life. We must not patronise spiritually unhealthy zones, no matter how attractive the place may be. We will be judged by the company we keep. Written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye.

Kk

Follow Jesus to where exactly?