Peter verified the truth found in Psalm 1:1

The purpose of this blog has always been to share some of the things I learn while developing Bible study guides.  In particular, to discuss things that don’t necessarily fit into the books, but are interesting and related to the topics. This post mixes something from our most recent book with something I found researching our next study guide.

During my last study on nonverbal communication in the Bible, I spent some time exploring walking, standing, and sitting.  Every time the Bible mentions someone involved in one of these activities there is an important meaning.  Walking is most often associated with our daily life and choices.  For instance, in Hebrews we are reminded that we should walk by faith.  Standing has a few meanings in the Bible.  We are encouraged to stand against the devil.  And, we are told that Jesus is standing at the door waiting for us to invite Him to dine with us.

Sitting is associated with dwelling and being settled.  In the post below I encouraged you to ask three questions whenever you read that someone is sitting.  Who is sitting?  Where are they sitting?  And, is this a proper place for them to settle or dwell?

Psalm 1:1 gives instructions regarding walking, standing, and sitting.  Those who are blessed know exactly where to NOT walk, stand, or sit.

How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers!  (Psalm 1:1, NASB)

Our next study is going to be on the Last Supper.  While researching the events of that night, I discovered that Peter, unfortunately, verified the truth found in Psalm 1.  These verses chronicle the events that put Peter in a place where he would deny Christ.  Look at this progression and compare these historical events to the warning of Psalm 1.

Walking with the Wicked

Having arrested Him, they led Him away and brought Him to the house of the high priest; but Peter was following at a distance.  (Luke 22:54, NASB)

Standing with the Sinners

Now the slaves and the officers were standing there, having made a charcoal fire, for it was cold and they were warming themselves; and Peter was also with them, standing and warming himself.  (John 18:18, NASB)

Sitting with the Scoffers

But Peter was following Him at a distance as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and entered in, and sat down with the officers to see the outcome…Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard, and a servant-girl came to him and said, “You too were with Jesus the Galilean.” But he denied it before them all, saying, “I do not know what you are talking about.”  (Matthew 26:58, 69–70, NASB)

Maybe this is stating the obvious…If Peter did not walk to the trial, stand near the fire, and sit in the courtyard, he would not have been in a position where he felt the need to deny Christ.  This is an amazing confirmation of Psalm 1:1, and a stern warning to us to make sure we watch carefully where we walk, stand, and sit.