The Danger Of Following From Afar (Peter's Story)

THE DANGER OF FOLLOWING FROM AFAR (PETER'S STORY)

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 26:57–75

“But Peter followed Him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.” – Matthew 26:58 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Luke 22:54–62, John 18:15–18, Proverbs 4:25–27, Hebrews 10:22

INTRODUCTION:

The Christian journey is not meant to be followed from a distance. The moment a believer begins to drift away from close fellowship with Christ, they become vulnerable to compromise, confusion, and even denial of the faith. Peter’s experience is a sobering lesson in what it means to follow Christ from a distance.

Peter was a devoted disciple, bold and outspoken, yet during Jesus’ arrest and trial, fear gripped him, and he chose to follow “afar off.” That one step of distance eventually led to a series of denials. Following Jesus at a distance may seem like a safer or more convenient option during trials, but it is full of spiritual dangers.

In this sermon, we will explore what it means to follow from afar, the consequences that come with it, and how we can stay close to Jesus no matter the cost.

1. SYMPTOMS OF FOLLOWING FROM AFAR

When a believer begins to lose spiritual intimacy, the signs are often subtle at first.

a) Reduced time in prayer and Word study

The first sign of drifting is neglecting personal devotion. (Psalm 119:11)

b) Inconsistent church fellowship and service

Absence from fellowship creates spiritual coldness. (Hebrews 10:25)

c) Compromising spiritual convictions

One starts tolerating what was once rejected. (Galatians 1:6)

d) Seeking comfort among the ungodly

Peter warmed himself among those who would later mock Christ. (Luke 22:55)

Biblical Example: Lot slowly drifted toward Sodom and lost his spiritual alertness. (Genesis 13:10–13)

2. DANGERS OF FOLLOWING JESUS FROM A DISTANCE

Spiritual distance is dangerous because it opens doors to temptation and failure.

a) Susceptibility to fear and intimidation

Fear ruled Peter’s heart the moment he followed from afar. (2 Timothy 1:7)

b) Increased likelihood of denial and sin

Distance weakens conviction; Peter denied Jesus three times. (Matthew 26:69–75)

c) Losing spiritual discernment

A distant heart cannot perceive what God is doing. (Isaiah 29:13–14)

d) Temporary or permanent backsliding

Distance can lead to spiritual coldness or departure. (Revelation 3:15–17)

Biblical Example: Demas forsook Paul and the faith, having loved this present world. (2 Timothy 4:10)

3. CAUSES OF SPIRITUAL DISTANCE

What leads a committed believer to begin following from afar?

a) Fear of persecution or rejection

Peter feared association with Jesus during His trial. (John 18:17)

b) Disappointment in God's process

Sometimes, when events don’t go as expected, distance creeps in. (Proverbs 3:5–6)

c) Offence or misunderstanding

Many drift away due to church hurt or unmet expectations. (Matthew 11:6)

d) Worldly distractions and desires

Love for the world always competes with love for Christ. (1 John 2:15–17)

Biblical Example: The rich young ruler walked away from Jesus sorrowfully. (Mark 10:21–22)

4. STEPS TO RETURN TO CLOSE FELLOWSHIP

Even if you’ve drifted, Jesus always provides a way back.

a) Recognise your spiritual condition

Peter wept bitterly when he realised his error. (Luke 22:62)

b) Repent sincerely and seek restoration

A broken and contrite heart is never rejected. (Psalm 51:17)

c) Reignite personal devotion and passion

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (James 4:8)

d) Surround yourself with a godly support system

Fellowship keeps the fire burning. (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)

Biblical Example: The prodigal son returned and was restored by the father. (Luke 15:20–24)

5. THE BLESSING OF FOLLOWING JESUS CLOSELY

There is great reward in staying near to Christ through every season.

a) Intimacy with the Holy Spirit

Close fellowship brings divine direction and strength. (John 14:26)

b) Boldness in the face of trials

Those who walk closely with God fear no opposition. (Acts 4:13)

c) Clarity of purpose and calling

The closer you are to Jesus, the clearer your path becomes. (Psalm 25:14)

d) Eternal assurance and joy

Faithfulness to the end brings the crown of life. (Revelation 2:10)

Biblical Example: John the Beloved stayed close and was entrusted with Jesus' final words. (John 19:26–27)

CONCLUSION:

Peter’s story is a powerful warning and an encouraging reminder. Though he followed from afar and fell, he also found restoration. Let us not be casual in our walk with God. A distant walk leads to disaster, but a close walk leads to destiny.

There is no safer place than near the Saviour. If you’ve been following from afar, it’s time to close the gap and draw near to Jesus with full assurance of faith.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, deliver me from every spirit of spiritual laziness and distance.

2. Help me to maintain a close and burning relationship with You.

3. I refuse to sit among mockers and ungodly companions.

4. Restore unto me the joy of my salvation.

5. Let the fire of devotion and hunger for Your presence be rekindled in me.