First Community Church 03.10.24 Glen Miles -Sermon I'm Fixed Upon It

This Sunday, we continue the sermon series Wandering Heart with Part Four: "I'm Fixed Upon It," based on Matthew 16: 21-23. This is the famous story of when Peter tried to tell Jesus what to do and what not to do. Peter is confused. He is creating a stumbling block for Jesus. Jesus replies, rather harshly, "Get Thee Behind Me, Satan!" It sounds harsher in the old King James Version, doesn't it? It's got to be a difficult moment for Peter. Just before this story, Peter proclaimed his love and loyalty to Jesus. It must feel like his world is unraveling. Have you ever had an earthshaking, life-changing event come at you out of nowhere? Have you ever faced inconvenient truths or difficult facts about yourself that challenged your faith or view of life? Jesus' rebuke is harsh but clear. It is never easy to face hard truths, but when we do, we may find ourselves stronger in the long run. The best news is the simple fact that Jesus' last word is always one of grace and generosity.