Three Times

As we continue our Sunday series focused upon the Apostle Peter, we come to that moving moment when Jesus asks him three times, “Do you love me?” Why three times? Certainly it mirrors Peter's three denials, but it also reminds us of a fascinating pattern woven throughout Scripture: God often works in threes.

Perhaps this should not surprise us. At the heart of Christian faith stands the mystery and majesty of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Our God is One in Being, yet Three in Person. The number three repeatedly appears as a sign of completeness, confirmation and divine purpose.

Think of the many biblical examples. Three visitors came to Abraham. Jonah spent three days and three nights in the belly of the fish. Elijah poured water over his sacrifice three times before God sent fire from heaven. Jesus prayed three times in Gethsemane. Paul pleaded three times for his thorn in the flesh to be removed. Peter saw the sheet from heaven three times before taking the Gospel to the Gentiles. There are many more instances. Most significantly of all, Jesus rose on the third day, securing salvation for all who trust in Him.

Then there is the worship of heaven itself. The seraphim do not cry merely, "Holy." Nor even, "Holy, holy.” They proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty." Threefold praise for the infinitely worthy Triune God.

What does this mean for us? Perhaps it reminds us that God is patient in His dealings with His people. We often want instant answers, immediate growth and overnight holiness. Yet God frequently works through repetition, reinforcement and reminder. He teaches, repeats and teaches again. Thankfully, He is not the God of "one strike and you're out," but the God of grace upon grace.

It also reminds us that God finishes what He starts. Three often signals completeness. When God begins a work in us, He intends to bring it to completion. His plans are not partial, His promises are not patchy, and His purposes are never half-hearted.

So when life feels fragmented, faith feels fragile, or circumstances seem uncertain, remember the God of the threes. The Father loves you, the Son saves you and the Spirit strengthens you. His work is complete, His grace is sufficient and His purposes are perfect.

And if you happen to hear something three times this week, perhaps don't ignore it - God may just be trying to get your attention.

Revd Michael Hogg