Peter Makes Amends — Step 9
STEP 9: We made direct amends to such people whenever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you; leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Matthew 5:23-24
Simon Peter was a strong and faithful follower of Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus prophesized, “I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18 (NIV) Just like us, Peter still faltered, broke his promises, and needed to make amends.
In the book of Mark chapter 14 verses 29-31 (NLT) 29 Peter said to Jesus, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I never will.” 30 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, Peter—this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 31 “No!” Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!”
Later that same night, just as Jesus predicted, Peter denied Jesus three times. Upon realizing the betrayal of our Lord and Savior, Peter broke down and wept. (Mark 14:66-72) Peter was repentant, but he didn’t just stay there weeping with regret and asking for forgiveness. Peter got up and began making a difference for Christ. As you read through the book of Acts, you will find that Peter faced many perils including crucifixion to build the church just as Jesus said.
Amends is an action. It requires we do something to make things better or to improve the situation—to mend or repair the wrongs we committed. Peter could have simply wept bitterly, asked to be forgiven, and then moved on with peace, but without the action of trying to fix the failing he had created, where would the church be today? To truly make amends, Peter needed to uphold his promises and in a real way, show his commitment to Jesus. The same is true of us.
We should acknowledge our wrongs and ask for forgiveness, but also to work on mending relationships and repairing our wrongs. We need to show those around us that we are committed to a better life and our promises will now be kept. One of the primary ways we can do this is to stay sober and/or work on our compulsive behaviors, work the steps, stay committed to God, and continue on the path to a healthier life.
Peter’s Key Verse for Step 9
Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice[b] you will disown me three times.” And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72 (NIV)
Examine your heart
- What are some real ways you are making amends to those around you?
- We’ve all heard the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” What are your actions telling people?
- Is there anyone with whom you are struggling to make amends? Is there anything this group can do to help or support you in this process?
Learn More
This story of Peter can be found in chapter 14 in Mark. The book of Mark is located on page 1249 of the second edition of The Life Recovery Bible. We also recommend you read the book of Acts to witness Peter’s real amends in action. The book of Acts is located on page 1379 of the second edition of The Life Recovery Bible and contains the following recovery themes: The Power of the Holy Spirit, Commitment That Overcomes Opposition, Living Beyond Circumstances, and Sharing the Message.