In Quest of the Rock - Discussion Guide: Peter’s Transformative Journey With Jesus

By Michael F. Kuhn

From the monastic devotion of the church fathers and mothers to the spiritual disciplines we espouse today, the church has always searched for ways to deepen discipleship and to grow in Christ. In the book that this discussion guide complements, In Quest of the Rock, the author delves into the source material, exploring Peter’s transformation from fisherman to apostle through the power of relational encounter.

As readers are empowered to see their own journeys in the light of Peter’s, they will recognize their disappointments and unfulfilled aspirations as invitations into the reshaping and healing of their own hearts. This is a powerful resource for all who desire to grow in Christ, as well as those involved in the discipling of others.

Intended for small group settings, this accompanying discussion guide journeys through each chapter of the book, to deepen the reader’s understanding and encourage fruitful, challenging conversation.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Langham Global Library
• Release date: May 2, 2023
• ISBN: 9781839738562

Book preview

Before You Begin

Peter’s discipleship took place with friends. He learned to follow Jesus in the company of others. That doesn’t come naturally for me and I suspect it is challenging for most of us. By nature, I’m a little fearful of revealing too much of myself . . . afraid of being judged or devalued in the eyes of others. The Bible doesn’t tell us much about Peter’s emotions but I suspect he might have been a little embarrassed on occasion. For instance, he was likely ashamed by his denial of Jesus and yet Jesus restored him to his place of leadership with many of his friends (the disciples) looking on.

As you discuss this book, your small group can be that company of Jesus followers that surrounds and encourages you in following Jesus. But for that to happen, there has to be a measure of trust and vulnerability. I’m not suggesting that you have to lay bare your deepest secrets and longings before your small group, but you will need to push yourself a little to be open and honest, expressing your thoughts to them and listening deeply to them as they express theirs. It is important to do that without judging or correcting. Resist the urge to teach your friends as they must resist the urge to teach you. Expressing what we really think and feel as we interact with God’s word is the only way to examine it for both the truth and deception it contains. Peter’s correction of Jesus, urging him to forego suffering (Matt 16) was an honest expression of