Why “Not if I have anything to do with it!” may be a sad response
“Not if I have anything to do with it! Or for that matter, to say about it!!”
I bet at some moment you’ve been determined enough, concerned enough, or angry enough to use one or both of these lines. Depending on the context they may sound heroic, or unfortunately, they can also sound like you are the one with the power and you are ready to sling some of it around and make a point. If it’s the latter, you will likely look foolish to the observers within earshot.
Jesus had just revealed clearer details of his mission. He named the city where it would happen, the people he would surrender to, and that he would suffer, die, and come back from the dead. It was a head-spinner for the disciples that would lead to emotions of shock, sadness, and grief. But Peter tried the heroic approach. He used a line similar to the two I opened with today. Remembering what we know about Peter, we can imagine the scene. And we know he actually tried to stop it by attacking a guard with a sword the night of Jesus’ arrest.
Satan’s subtle interference
It doesn’t appear that Jesus hesitated a second either time. In the passage we are discussing, Jesus turned to Peter and said, “Get behind me Satan! You are a hindrance to me.” I don’t think Peter was possessed and Jesus was trying to expel a demon. This has more to do with the subtle ways Satan interferes with the plans of God and how we at times unwittingly come into agreement with things opposed to what God is doing in our lives or in a given situation.
Which brings me back to my first line, “Not if I have anything to do with it!” While God invites us into relationship and into participating in his Kingdom mission, our actions will not stop God’s plans or success. Our response, even if we arrogantly refuse or, like Peter, think we have a better plan, will never stop the advancement of God’s Kingdom.
And the second line, “Not if I have anything to say about it,” is relevant as well. You can say all you want, but the wisdom of God and the purposes of God will go forward. You might embarrass yourself, damage otherwise healthy relationships, or cause some pain for someone, but your words even aligned with Satan himself will not stop the Kingdom. They may impact your spiritual condition, but they will never stop God’s love, mercy, grace, or purpose from happening.
What it takes
After correcting Peter, Jesus turned to the disciples and to all who will listen. He gave a clear call for what it takes to be a Jesus follower. It takes everything. There isn’t a halfway. We must come all in or not come at all. We can make our own plans for our life, choose our desires, or surrender everything. If we try to save ourselves and work our own agenda, we may find temporary happiness, but we won’t find and experience the full and abundant life of God.
There’s a lot at stake. Every day we have a decision to make. Do I want to work my plan or let God work his? Only one is a sure thing.
Your time with God’s Word
Matthew 16:21-26 ESV
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
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