I

After Peter underwent a lot of God’s work, he gained insight into some things, and also much discernment. He came to understand many things regarding the principle of service, and later he was able to be fully loyal to what Jesus entrusted him with. The great refinement that he received was mostly because, considering the things that he had himself done, he felt that he owed God so much and that he’d never be able to repay Him, while also recognizing that man is very corrupt, which all caused him to feel guilty in his conscience.

II

Jesus had said many things to Peter, but at the time when these things were said, he was only capable of a small amount of understanding, and sometimes he still harbored some resistance and rebelliousness. After Jesus was nailed to the cross, he finally experienced something of an awakening, and within him he felt strong pangs of reproach toward himself. In the end, it reached a point where he felt it unacceptable to have any ideas that were incorrect. Peter knew his own state very well, and he also knew the Lord’s holiness well. As a result, a heart of love for the Lord grew in him even more, and he became more focused on his own life. Because of this he suffered great hardships, and although at times it was as if he had a serious illness and even seemed as if he were dead, after he had been refined in this way many times, he gained more understanding of himself, and developed genuine love for the Lord. His entire life was spent in refinement, and even more than that, in chastisement. His experience was different from any other person’s, and his love surpassed that of anyone who has not been perfected. If you really are able to walk the final stretch of the path just like Peter did, then there is not a single created being that can take away your blessings.

from The Word, Vol. 1. The Appearance and Work of God. How You Should Walk the Final Stretch of the Path