1. Scriptural Foundation

The speaker utilizes several key passages to build the case for Peter’s transformation and the warning Jesus provides:

• Luke 22:31-34: The primary text where Jesus addresses “Simon Simon,” warns of Satan’s desire to “sift” the disciples like wheat, and predicts Peter’s three-fold denial.
• John 1:42: The introductory moment where Andrew brings Simon to Jesus, and Jesus immediately gives him the name Cephas (meaning “Rock”), signaling a future calling.
• Matthew 16:16-18: The moment of confirmation where, after Simon declares Jesus is the Christ, Jesus affirms his identity as Peter and states that upon this “rock” He will build His church.
• Luke 22:24: The contextual backdrop of the Last Supper, describing the “strife” or loud arguments among the disciples concerning which of them would be considered the greatest.

2. The Significance of the Name: Simon vs. Peter

The sermon hinges on the duality of the Apostle’s identity. The speaker explains that Jesus chooses His words carefully based on which “nature” He is addressing:

• Simon (The Old Nature):
  • Represents the “former life” and the “old man.”
  • Characterized by the “old nature” we are born with—prone to sin, pride, and emotional outbursts.
  • Associated with the fisherman identity before the call to ministry.
  • The version of the self that is susceptible to “sifting” and spiritual failure.
• Peter (The New Nature):
  • Represents the “Fisher of Men” and the “new creation” in Christ.
  • Signifies the “Rock,” representing stability, divine promise, and destiny.
  • The version of the self that is converted, strengthened, and tasked with leading others.
  • The identity that is “steadfast and unmovable.”

3. Context: Strife at the Table

The speaker paints a vivid picture of the atmosphere during the Last Supper to explain why Jesus had to intervene:

• The Distraction: While Jesus spoke of His body and blood, the disciples were distracted by their own egos.
• The Argument: They were not sitting quietly; they were “beside themselves,” arguing over who would lead the group after Jesus was gone.
• The Intervention: Jesus raised His hand to quiet the “roar” of the table. By saying “Simon Simon,” He was specifically calling out the “old nature” that was causing the disciples to act selfishly.

4. The “Old Man” and Spiritual Warfare

The speaker relates Peter’s experience to the modern believer’s daily struggle:

• The Sifting Process: Satan does not just want to annoy the believer; he wants to “shake” their life to destroy their faith and purpose.
• The Persistence of the Old Nature: The speaker notes that even after being “saved,” the “old man” (Simon) tries to resurface during moments of stress, such as in traffic or during workplace conflicts.
• The Power of Conversion: Using the metaphor of falling, the speaker notes that while the “wicked” stay down, the “righteous” (the converted Peter) get back up seven times.

5. Recommended Study Scriptures

To further understand the theology of the “Old Man” vs. the “New Man,” the speaker suggests reviewing the following:

• Romans 6:6: Regarding the crucifixion of the old self.
• Ephesians 4:22: Regarding the instruction to “put off” the former conversation of the old man.
• Colossians 3:9: Regarding the removal of the old man and his deeds.
• Galatians 5:16-25: A contrast between walking in the “flesh” (the Simon nature) and the “Spirit” (the Peter nature).

Finale Takeaway

The Core Message: Your “Simon” (your past, your flaws, and your old nature) has no jurisdiction over your “Peter” (your promise, your purpose, and your future in Christ).

Final Thought: The speaker concludes that we must not allow the “former things” to reside in our attitudes or hearts. When we operate out of our “Simon” nature, we risk missing the blessings and the power that God has intended for our “Peter” identity. You are a new creation; walk in your new name.