Haggling with Jesus
Released translations of the Dead Sea Scrolls has revealed that we didn't have the whole text of the account of Peter's calling. I got my hands on it and here it is...seems like things haven't changed much:
Matt 4:18 and following
As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” Peter asked, "Perhaps, but I'm still checking you out and have some questions." Jesus replied, "Well, if you must." Peter asked, "Lord, I saw you teaching in town and I have to say that I really wasn't feeling it. I mean, I need to be able to connect to you and frankly, well, and please don't take offense, but the way you talk and the language you use is a bit too formal for me. I just don't feel like I can worship you unless you can use more youthful language." Jesus stared at Peter and said, "OK well I can do that, maybe use more stories, would that help?" Peter said, "Maybe. But also, I've got kids and I just want to be sure you have something for them too. Can I be sure my kids will like you too and want to follow you too?" Jesus sighed, "I'll be sure to make an extra effort with kids. In fact, how about I lift their faith up as an example for us all? Will that suffice?" Peter thought for a minute, "Well I suppose, don't go too crazy. I just need to know if I'm giving you all this time and sacrifice...well..what am I going to get from this whole thing? It's a fair question, don't you think? After all, you're asking a lot from me." Jesus looked very sad and looked at the ground for a long time. Finally he spoke, "OK Peter, tell you what, you follow me and I'll build my church on you. Everyone will know you and honor you for thousands of years. They will name buildings after you. And, I hope you're ready for this, everything they do to me, they will also want to do to you." Peter smiled. Immediately they left their nets and followed him.
