May, 10 2025
A video introduction using illustrations, personal stories, metaphors, or active learning examples to begin the discussion.
After the video, prompts are supplied for thinking and sharing with others personal perception and experience. This opening activity prompts participants to think about and relate to the topic, and to share with others.
In moments of crisis or fear, our brains naturally narrow their focus to just one thing—survival. It’s not unusual. In fact, it’s normal.
When things fall apart, we often default to quick, instinctive responses like:
• Staying safe
• Getting out (escape)
• Finding comfort
• Trying to get approval
• Grabbing for control
Have you ever seen this happen in your own life—or the life of someone you care about?
When we’re in distress, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. But what if we could train ourselves to keep perspective—even under pressure?
The Bible discussion begins with a careful reading of the whole passage, either from your own Bibles, or from the provided images below.
Then participants are to ask:
Read Mark 14:66-72
Peter Disowns Jesus
66 While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by. 67 When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him.
“You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said.
68 But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway.[a]
69 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.” 70 Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.”
71 He began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know this man you’re talking about.”
72 Immediately the rooster crowed the second time.[b] Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice[c] you will disown me three times.” And he broke down and wept.
Peter’s denial reveals the power of fear and our natural instinct for self-preservation. Even after boldly pledging loyalty (Mark 14:29-31), Peter panics when pressured, showing how fear can make us act against our deepest convictions.
His denial doesn’t happen all at once—it builds. First, he dismisses the accusation. Then, he distances himself more strongly. Finally, he denies with curses and oaths. This steady slide reminds us how small compromises, if ignored, can grow into major failures.
But Peter’s story doesn’t end there. When the rooster crows, he remembers Jesus’ words—and breaks down in sorrow. That moment of recognition leads to repentance. And the most powerful part? Jesus already knew Peter would fall, and yet He loved and restored him (John 21:15-19). His grace makes room for our failures and offers a path back through repentance and faith.
A parting video clip with a personal invitation to apply the message to “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ” in the coming week.