Come and See: Learning from the life of Peter

When we look at the life of Peter – fisherman, disciple, leader of the church – we find somebody who responded wholeheartedly to the call to ‘come and see’. Come and meet Jesus, come and follow him, come and find your life being transformed. This book focuses on Peter, not because he is the best-known of Jesus’ friends, nor the most loyal, but because he shows us what being a disciple of Jesus is actually like. Like us, he takes a step of faith and then flounders, and needs the saving touch of God to continue becoming the person he was created to be.

Come and See provides a pattern of Bible reading, reflection and prayer. Twenty-eight readings, arranged in four sections, offer short passages from the story of Peter, plus comment and questions for personal response or group discussion.

Transforming Ministry Winter 2021. Review by Sue Piper

Archbishop Stephen has subtitled his book, ‘Learning from the Life of Peter’. He takes us through the life and calling of Peter in four sections which can be studied weekly or monthly, for use with a study group or as individuals. Drawing on scripture, we are helped to understand firstly Peter’s call, then how his character has been shaped, especially on the way of the cross, and finally in enduring hope. Each section ends with some searching questions. This book reveals Peter’s character in great detail, with all his weaknesses, fears and strengths, as Jesus supports him in his personal growth journey of faith. And this journey could be yours or mine as we explore our own shortcomings and strengths; but with prayer and study we learn to become the person God loves and the person God desires us to be. We are guided on a journey of growing closer to God by Peter as he eventually realises his potential and his true gifts. We can do this too either as new Christians or long-time believers.

Reviewed by Sue Piper

Church Matters. Paul Beasley-Murray

First published in 2003 as The Rock, this edition of 'Come and See: Learning from the Life of Peter' by Archbishop Stephen Cottrell is 'for new Christians who want to grow in their faith, and for more experienced Christians who want to reset the compass of their discipleship'. It has a fivefold aim: to help people “grow as followers of Jesus, develop a love for the Bible, understand more about the Bible, establish a regular pattern for Bible reading, and allow the word of God to shape their lives”. Each of the 28 sections comprises a Scripture passage – at times somewhat loosely linked to the life of Peter – followed by a comment and questions for personal reflection or for group discussion. This is a most helpful guide by a great communicator.

The Good Bookstall

Reading, reflection and prayer are helpfully visited in this revision of a former 2003 publication that is an effective first reader to the life of a struggling, true, first-follower of Jesus. This compact guide to Lenten weeks is an able accompaniment to life and learning from the life of Peter. There is a compelling reality to this discipleship journey in the breadth and searching in the New Testament sweep of scriptures offered here. These twenty-eight readings are accompanied by pithy, provoking and helpful resources for reflection. Clear and chewy!

From The Good Bookstall - March 2011 First published in as On This Rock - Bible Foundations for Christian Living (2003).