Introduction

The life of Peter is fascinating. He was a fisherman from Galilee who became the spokesman for the body of Christ as soon as Christ ascended into heaven. His life was filled with “ups and downs,” life lessons we can apply to ourselves.

1. GOD CAN USE ORDINARY PEOPLE

Peter was uneducated and very ordinary. Christ called him as he was washing his nets on the beach after a long, fruitless night of fishing. However, Christ saw something within him that would be world-changing.

All of us feel very unworthy of great things. We know our private failures and limitations. God, however, sees our potential and purpose. Never underestimate all that God has in mind for you.

Question: We are all ordinary people. What is the greatest limitation that you have had to overcome as a person?

2. GOD CAN USE OBEDIENT PEOPLE

Peter was the disciple who stepped out of the boat and walked on water to Christ. Peter was the disciple who went down to the sea and caught a fish with a gold coin in his mouth to pay his taxes.

So many people hold back and wait for others to move forward. God is looking for people who will take His command and simply obey.

Question: Can you remember a time God spoke to you to obey Him that you stepped out and did it even when your mind was telling you not to?

3. GOD CAN USE IMPERFECT PEOPLE

Peter had the nerve to rebuke the Lord when He told them He was going to die on the cross. Peter took a sword and cut off the ear of the high priest’s servant in the garden of Gethsemane.

Peter denied the Lord three times as Christ predicted he would.

In all of Peter’s faults and failures, Christ never stopped loving him and believing in him. All of us have weaknesses and disappointments, but the Lord never gives up on us.

Question: What is the one failure in your life you have a hard time overcoming and putting behind you?

4. GOD CAN USE COURAGEOUS PEOPLE

Peter was the disciple who stood up on the day of Pentecost and confronted the multitude with their sin of crucifying Christ. Peter’s shadow was used to heal all the sick in Jerusalem. Peter was the first Jewish believer to enter the home of a Gentile (Cornelius) and lead his household into faith in Christ. Peter was rescued from jail by the angel of the Lord the night before his execution.

All of us have fears and inhibitions. When we are filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, a divine boldness comes upon us that changes us into a fearless, powerful witness for Christ.

Question: 
Have you become a powerful witness for Christ, or is that still something you wish would happen?

Action Point: 
Take a few minutes to pray for those in the group who may be walking through trials that are causing them to question their leadership. Encourage any group members who have not read Life 01 that now would be a great time to learn more about Jesus, our greatest Hero, and what He did for you.

The Freedom Encounter: 
Many men have been exposed to, and even participated in, immoral practices and need a time of cleansing. The Freedom Encounter is a great place to receive healing and deliverance from your past. Ask your B-Group Leader about attending at the end of this semester. Do you have another man with whom you are accountable? If not, would you like one, or is that a future step for you?

Leader: 
Take a few minutes and ask if any men need specific prayer over a need they may be facing. As you speak with the men in your group, find out what the next step is for them in the Bethany Growth Track.