So… I just stumbled across a few Skillet “Comatose” posters signed by the band, and thought it might be something you would like. They look like this, and could be hanging on your wall in a couple weeks 😉 We have a great bible study today (and more to come) that was inspired by Skillet’s song “Monster” and we’d love to hear your thoughts. We’re reading through Luke 22:54-57 and talking about the “monster” inside us all that Jesus came to save. Post a comment with your takeaways from the study or your favorite bible verse, and we’ll randomly select a winner to get the prize!
MONSTER
[audio:https://freeccm.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/Skillet.Monster.mp3|titles=Skillet- Monster (30 sec)]“Then seizing [Jesus], they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, ‘This man was with him.’ But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don’t know him,’ he said.” – Luke 22:54-57
The dark, diabolical side of Peter took over when he least expected it. He always knew it was there, lurking under the surface. But he never thought it would come out against someone he loved.
After Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane, Peter crept into to the temple courtyard to eavesdrop. But this wasn’t a gathering of protestors or peace advocates. He stood around burning trashcans with people who couldn’t wait to see Jesus hang on a cross.
Peter tried to blend in. He only wanted to know what was going on. But suddenly the situation turned frightening. A young girl recognized Peter as one of Jesus’ disciples and hurled accusations at him. Roman soldiers were surrounding him, so it could have meant death for him.
What he did next was unthinkable.
It wasn’t enough for Peter to escape into the night. He thought he had to prove them wrong. So he gave himself over to the beast that lives inside all of us – our sin nature. He began cursing with the vilest words he knew. He lied through his teeth with seething anger. And worst of all, he denied even knowing Jesus. He let the monster out of its cage.
At this one, shameful moment, Peter became an enemy of God.
Maybe you’ve sensed it within you too. You’ve been following Jesus, but there’s something horrible lurking inside you. Sometimes you’re surprised by the thoughts that flash through your mind. You refuse to tell anyone because you’re afraid of what they’ll think of you.
Take heart. You’re not alone.
Jesus didn’t tell Peter not to betray him. He told him that he would betray him. In other words, he expected it. Jesus knew something about human nature – that even when we’re filled with the spirit of God, we still have to contend with our old, sinful nature. And as long as we walk this earth, we’ll always struggle to restrain it.
When Peter realized what he had done, he was mortified. The story says that he wept bitterly. What’s worse, he had even told Jesus that he would never deny him. Can you imagine the shame he must have felt? Peter hated himself for it.
The magnificent part of this story is that Jesus knew about the monster inside Peter and loved him anyway. Jesus predicted that Peter would betray him, but he never turned his back on him.
It turns out that the monster inside us is exactly why Jesus came to earth. We could never restrain the monster ourselves; it’s much too powerful. Jesus took the punishment for our sins on the cross because we could never gain favor with God on our own.
As we walk in the presence of God, he gives us the power to become a new person in him. Our lives are no longer judged by the actions we take, but by the belief that we have in him.
P.S. Have you seen Skillet’s newest podcast episode? Click here to watch & see what the band has been up to lately
This is totally true! There are times when I feel like the sins that I am doing are just creating this horrible monster inside of me. It must remember that through Jesus I have been forgiven for these sins. It is amazing to know that the monster inside me is no longer there when Jesus came to Earth.
we do all have a monster inside and only through the mercy and grace of christ can it be tamed. good study
Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to the patten of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Man every time I read this scripture it blows me away in the fact that we shouldn’t allow the things of this world to change us and the only thing that should change us is the will of God. Because life is to short we need to live like there is no tomorrow and live like Jesus is coming back today.
I think it is awesome that Skillet, a rock band, can make music with a Christian message. My favorite Bible verse is when Christ says that he is faithfulnand just to forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Interesting thoughts. I have always liked 2 timothy 1:7 “Fpor God has not given us a Spirit of Fear, but of Power Love and a Sound MInd”
I think this serves as a reminder to Christians as well. Everyone messes up and, as followers of Christ, we need to continue to love those who are labeled by the world to be “unlovable.” Instead of judging them, we need to reach out. We love because He first loved us.
This is one of my personal goals that I am going to try to work on. God loves the popular, unpopular, cool, uncool, weird, normal, etc. Anytime I see someone struggling, I need to look past the outside and look into their heart. Sometimes God can use a single conversation to do amazing things.
So, I want to encourage everyone to love everyone because God first loved us, as talked about in the above article.
In Him.
That is a very inspiring study! That just made me look at my day differently. It’s so awesome that God is always there and Him and Jesus love us so much! I don’t know what I would do without them!
This is amazing. Skillet is the best band ever. It is so cool that a rock band can write music with a Christian message.
I struggle with this..and so does my young tween daughter. Somewhat new to Christian music my tween loves skillet but we were uncertain that it had a very Christian message. Upon further review and more indepth research we have come to understand the messages they are trying to relay. I think our sinful nature is something we all can relate to..something we all struggle with daily. Thankfully we have a Gracious God who is loving enough to give us chance after chance to redeem ourselves thru His SON.
Wow. I’ve thought about that a many times. I’ve been that monster a lot of times. It’s hard to imagine how God can love us even after all the many things we have done. We are all sinners, and yet, He continues to love us and even died for us so that we could live. That thought encourages me all the time. Our God forgives us for everything and will continue to do so forever. We may be monsters at times, but we are changed through Christ.
Sometimes we are afraid to stand up for Christ. We live in a world where Christianity is frowned upon. Peter was afraid to stand up for Christ. In fact, he denied that he knew Christ 3 times before he realized he had sinned. Christ says that he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleans us from all unrighteousness. The Bible also says not to conform to this world where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but to be like Christ and stand up for him.
Great article! It just goes to prove that no one, not even Peter, is perfect. We all have this “Monster” Fallen nature given to us at the fall when Adam and Eve fell in the garden to the tempter, Satan. Therefore, we need Jesus to make us clean and perfect in his eyes!
I feel like this a lot. Sometimes I cant even believe what I’m saying
I think Jesus used this circumstance to show us that no matter how bad the situation is or how big the whole that we create gets, He will love us and forgive us.
my favorite Bible verse is Romans 12:2
When I first read the passage about Peter denying Jesus, my reaction was, “I’d never do that! Shame on Peter.” But the more I thought about it I realized that if that had been me, I would have denied knowing Him too. The fear of being beaten or killed for Jesus would have overpowered my love for Him. That revelation convicted me that I value my life, my comforts more than I value what Jesus did for me. I pray that as my faith matures and I get to know Jesus more and more I’ll be willing to give my all for Him.
I think that all of us have the “Monster” inside of them. What amazes me time and again in the Bible is that God or Jesus always gives us a chance for redempion. While Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?”, Jesus knew that this redemption for Peter would lead him to being stronger and able to stand in the fires later in life. Sometimes we don’t understand a failure, but thankfully we have a Saviour that puts it in perspective.
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” ~Romans 12:2
I think this can also apply to the monster theme. 🙂
I feel like a Monster many times. I love skillets song cause it shows that Im not the only one that feels that way. God loves us all and it doesn’t matter what we do hes always there waiting to forgive us. It’s nice knowing that.
My favorite bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11! it’s a promise I keep and can’t wait to find out His plans!
It seems so easy to follow Jesus when we’re with Him, when we’re in the Word and praying, but it can be just as easy to lose sight of that when we’re away from Him, even just going to school or work during the day. Those are the times when the monster inside can reveal itself. It’s good to know that even Jesus’ disciples struggled and I love how we’re always forgiven and God doesn’t want us to dwell on our mistakes. He just wants to get closer and love us because in his eyes we are so beautiful and the monster is part of the lie we believe. We feel like a monster, we can look like a monster, but the monster is never our true self as we are meant to be and God sees through it. It’s so encouraging to be reminded that Jesus paid the price and broke the barrier between us and the Holy heart of God.
My favorite Bible verses are definitely Isaiah 43:18-19 🙂
I really like Isaiah 51:3, “The LORD will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; He will make her deserts like Eden, her wastelands like the garden of the LORD. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.”
I know the monster all too well! I have to wrestle with it daily. I am a recovering alcoholic and by the grace of God I have His help to keep that monster at bay one day at a time. I am a huge Skillet fan and would really love that poster!
Yours in Christ,
Rocky Brown
My favorite Bible verse is Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his rightousness and all these things will be given to you as well”. Put God first and then God will give you all things!!
Even thought Peter let the monster loose, Jesus still knew what he would do for the Name of Christ…he was called the Rock! AWESOME!
I think the thing that Peter can claim (looking back) that he was saved was his reaction to his sin. he was horrified at what he’d done. if he’d been able to “get over it” it would have proven that Christ had no ownership in his life.
We all do that. We all sin and we all fall short of the glory of God. but it’s our reactions that make us look different to the rest of the world. It’s how we respond to the sin in our lives.
The spiritual soul versus carnal nature is a war that rages within each of us. Often despite all the truth that exists deep in our soul, it the weakness of human nature that leads us to actions that contradict the very things we believe and know to be true; it turns humans into monsters, even if just for a moment. All of history is littered with humans whose spiritual soul desired to serve God, but inevitably they fell to carnal nature at some point in their life, as we all have. Only One who walked this earth was and is perfect. Only through a real relationship with Jesus Christ can we obtain that which we truly desire; grace, steadfast love, and eternal freedom from the monster that dwells within. The verse I live by is John 14:6, “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’.”
Isaiah 40:31- but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint
The monsters inside us fight to take control of us. But through the power of Jesus Christ, we can overcome these monsters and become mirrors of what God can do in a life.
At times I think we all have a tendency to check our mind at the door and allow the worst to come out in us.
Favorite verse: Proverbs 3:5-6
i know that so many times that monster rages up in me but through the grace of God that monster is removed and then i dont have to deal with that monster anymore in my life… God is so good….
I love the study – I might have to use that one some day too! I think the key to remember is that even when we feel like a monster – God loves us!
I really enjoyed reading this.
Not only the study, but the other readers’ comments and interpretations of it.
Also, I love when my favorite songs and my favorite book come together so nicely. :]
One of my favorite verses is Ephesians 5:8.
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.
Walk as children of light.”
The first time my husband heard “Monster” this is exactly what he thought of-the monster inside himself(all of us) that changes our words and actions from Christlike (loving) to worldly (mean and selfish) without our realizing it. Thank our wonderful God that He knew this and still forgives us!!
I like Philipians 4:13 it gives me hope that I can do whatever I want
God is amazing! Every sin that we’ve committed and every sin that we will commit in the future has already been paid for. Jesus forgave Peter even before Peter ever denied him. It’s great to know that when that monster emerges in me, God will help me find my way back to him.
My monster is rearing its ugly head, depression and envy
Romans 12:1-2
1Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual[a] act of worship. 2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
I certainly liked this Bible study; it was very good.
I’m not sure I have a single favorite Bible verse, but one of my favorites is Matthew 21:21. If we have enough faith to move mountains, can we not, with God’s power, defeat the monster? It is an ongoing battle, but as Romans 8:37 says, “We are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”
romans 3: 22-24
22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
We may all have that monster inside us, but thru the grace of Jesus, we are redeemed.
Wow..I actually didn’t know about the details of what Peter did.
I totally understand the shame and think that we’ve all been there giving in to the monster. Truly without Jesus we couldn’t overcome it by ourselves. I mean if we’re giving in to it how do we expect to get rid of it?
I’m actually quite grateful that you guys did this bible study because I wasn’t sure as to what the Christian content was in “Monster” by Skillet. If someone were to ask me how that song is Christian (my sister asks) I wouldn’t know how to respond. But I now know what Skillet was trying to get at, besides the fact that we all feel like a monster sometimes. I love Skillet though! They’re CD Awake and Alive is amazing.
Thanks!
Dude thats just alot of us as christians we just live that christ following life for like half our lives and we just blend in with the world but god himself calls us to be taken and set holy for him. (VERSE: 1John 3:18)
Great message – how do I get entered in the giveaway?
All you have to do is post a comment- so you’re entered!
that’s so true. I hate myself when I do smehting wrong. but it’s so good to know that Jesus still loves me and will forgive me and help me overcome the monster in me
I went through quite a spiritual battle over the summer….there were days I thought to myself…is the bible even true…is christianity a cult like all the other cults out there….what reason do I have to even believe….but somewhere deep deep down…that faith of a mustard seed was still there. Cause even though I was filled with so much doubt…I still found myself praying and listening to chrisitan music. The funny thing is…it was fellow christians that drove me to that place…lately I have really come to realize the significance of Matthew 24:11 “and many false prophets shall rise and decieve many..” Even though Jesus is talking about when to know the end might be near…it lives each day in the church.
I have always known there was a beast inside me. After I accepted Christ as my Savior, it took me a couple of years to finally accept that He loves me, beast and all. Thank you for the study; it was definitely food for thought.
I’m so grateful that there is someone to save me from the monster inside me! I can’t do it on my own!
This is a really neat Bible study. Everyone does have a sinful side, but we need to stop it from sneaking out.
I personally believe that this passage is a great one that could relate to many, if not all of our lives. I know that their were times when I knew that I was supposed to reach out to others and tell them about the gospel, but instead I passed the chance out of fear or rejection of others. Those times were the ones in which I felt like a monster because I didn’t even know what I had become all of a sudden and it was frightening to think of why was I ashamed in the first place. Gratefully, that was of the past and has been forgiven and now I love every chance I get to reach out to others as well as looking forward to those moments.
Wow…I never thought a Bible study could be taken from that song. I wish my youth group did stuff like this. That was really cool
I have always looked up to Skillet and their spiritual wisdom… the words about the study are so true. We all struggle with some sort of sin, be it anger, pride, lust… the list goes on, and to us, it is a monster that we have to fight and try to control. But, praise God, Jesus was sent to atone for our sins and “monsters” so that we can have the power and strength to fight them and the forgiveness when we fail.
Very true. In my mind, I think we’re basically denying God EVERY time that we do something that is not ordained by God. We’re saying that our way is better and that we are in charge. When we became Christians, we decided to label ourselves as CHRISTians. We are not our own, we get to make our own decisions but we are SUPPOSED to make decisions in our lives like God would if He were running our lives. When we became Christians, we decided to let God rule our lives COMPLETELY. People forget that being a Christian is a serious commitment that requires letting go of everything our sinful nature wants and taking on Christ’s pure and loving nature. He overcame the world and with Christ leading our every move, we can to.
Interesting. I’ve always loved Romans 1:16. “I am unashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.”
Excellent study! Thanks for making it available – will be sharing with some intense SKILLET fans!
My favorite Bible verse is “It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer. He enables me to stand on the heigts. He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze….” 2 Samuel 22:23-36. I’ve ha dmany times in my life where I feel like a monster or I struggle with a sin (which makes me feel like a monster) but God arms me with strength to rise above the monster inside and He frees me of my sins and makes my way perfect!!
My favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11. “”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.””
Wow, Skillet is such an amazing band(wearing my Skillet shirt now!)! They are truly amazing, this study is so true too. I have felt that “monster” in me many times.
This is so true! Good news being that we have sin in our lives, or a monster deep inside all of us. However, by God’s grace, we can take control of that monster. Without God, we are powerless to taim the beast inside all of us, sin. God knows that we will deny Him, but God knows how hard of a struggle sin can be. So, He gives us a second chance, to stand up for Him. We, as Christians sometimes fall, but God picks us back up!
Many times I feel like a monster… glad it is only skin deep though and God’s grace doesn’t allow it to penetrate any further!
When I was a caregiver for my ill mother, I wasn’t always the nicest to her that I should have been. I had been saved with the Holy Ghost for over 30 yrs but couldn’t control myself sometimes. It wasn’t that I wanted to do or say anything on purpose. I loved her more than anything in this world. Now that my mother passed away just 2 months ago, I wish I had those times back to relive. I would have never done those if I could do it over. There are ways the devil gets to us by dealing with what we love the most. My mother forgave me for the way I acted and even told my sisters to overlook me that I don’t mean anything by it. She loved me and forgave me unconditionally just like Jesus did me too. I couldn’t have lived with myself if I had thought for one minute I hurt my mother’s feelings in anyway. I love you Mom..
I liked verse 54 because it said that peter followed afar after.
Everybody has a monster or dark side inside of them, but through God’s grace and mercy it is able to be tamed. Even though it may try to rage up inside of us, all you have to do is call upon God and he can settle the storm inside!
We all have a monster inside of us. Whenever I feel mine about to come out, the best thing to do is to remember that God is the One who can “take this from me, make it end.” As soon as Peter had denied Jesus, he realized that he had sinned and wanted more than anything to get rid of the monster.
I love Skillet and my fav verse is when u forgiven someone that u know when god is forgiven for everyone
my favorite verse is Psalms 37:4
It’s amazing when you think about it. That not only does God forgive us for being monsters, but He knows that it will happen. And He loves us anyway. That just blows my mind.
I love the song “Monster”, as it speaks to the innermost struggle we have between our sin nature and Christ working within us. As the study said, “Sometimes you’re surprised by the thoughts that flash through your mind. ” I’ve often felt this way and it’s good to be reminded that even the Disciples fought, and sometimes fell, to the human side of this struggle. Jesus knows and can overcome our human nature to use us for His will.
Romans 7:21-25 “So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
It’s amazing to know that although we have a “monster” lurking within us, and sometimes let it out, that no matter what we do or what we say, God’s love is always there for us. He will never leave us or quit loving us. He is the best friend we could ever have. He is always there for us. Sometimes I feel like the prodigal son. I left, experienced the outside world, and came home to have my father running towards me with open arms. This is the best feeling in the world!
1 Corinthians 10:13
I think it’s a good thing to be aware that we all have an inner monster. It definitely makes it easier for us to work on squashing the monster and drawing closer to God. I struggled with my monster for a few years, and basically became what Peter was. An enemy of God. After coming back to God, it really puts this passage into perspective for me. Sometimes in our flesh, it’s easier to deny God than to embrace Him in our times of trouble. But His way is so much better in the long run! I was such a bitter person when I was away from him. I came to hate myself!
Being a child of God is one of the best things that has ever happened to me, and I feel that Peter came to realize that through his harrowing experience. It would be ideal if we could all stay within God’s fold, but sometimes our wandering hearts stray. It helps us to realize how wonderful God’s love truly is and what a beautiful gift he gave us on the cross.
My favorite Bible verse is Psalm 139:14. It states: I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. It’s my favorite verse because it gets me through tough times when I am down. It reminds me that God made me and that I have a purpose.
And on a side note…for my speech class I had to give a speech of a song that described me. I chose “Monster.” My teacher deducted my score because she thought it didn’t describe my life. Yet I believe it relates to many peoples lives because we all have sins(monsters) inside of us that eat at our cores every second of the day. We continually fight to hide it but somehow our monsters always find a way through and reveals itself to the world.
This is great. Never thought about story quite like that.
I can totally realte to this. I know all too well that I have a monster within me. It’s anger, frustration, and bitterness, among others. But I know that someday that monster will be defeated by savior, Jesus Christ!
I think that it’s a truth not often discussed. Definitely a breath of fresh air from all of the ‘feel good’ sermons of today. †
As Jesus says in Luke 12:25
Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
Peter was worried and it unleashed the monster inside of him, denying he knew Jesus. Knowing that he just betrayed Jesus made him even more worried. Instead of going down the path of being worried which could unleash the monster inside of you and make you have regrets, follow God faithfully where He leads you, giving him love, honor and glory along the way.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
As we walk in the presence of God, he gives us the power to become a new person in him. Our lives are no longer judged by the actions we take, but by the belief that we have in him.
Even though it is true that we have an inner monster, it is also true that God sent Jesus into the world to help us combat it. Just as Jesus drove out the demon(s?) Legion, he helps us drive out our own personal demons. He truly is the Hero that we need!
Wow. You know, I never really thought about it like that. I really like this song, and I always try to figure out song meanings. And I kinda had it like, “yeah, it’s about the darkness thats within us” but I never really thought about it in relation to Peter. But thats really intersesting the way this has been done. I will definitely have to study this more, along those thought lines.
But it’s so true about Jesus still loving Peter, even though He knew Peter would betray Him. The same way he loves us, no matter what we do.
neat, i’m glad i finally know just what the song “moster” means rather than just an idea of it. I think your songs have more message than some people think, it would be great if you could do more things like this.
It’s amazing what is found out by song. I would have never guessed that this song would have a bible study come from it. And to read on here that God sent Jesus to take the “monster”from inside us really hit hard. Next time I listen to this song I’ll remember this 😀
“Then seizing [Jesus], they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, ‘This man was with him.’ But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don’t know him,’ he said.” – Luke 22:54-57
During my personal devo time I have ben reading this exact passage. This time going through it has struck me a little harder I have come to realize that I deny Christ more than I realized. I try to blend in with the crowd.
I have always found it a confusing, but wonderful scenario that Jesus called Peter the Rock.
We (Christians) always say “Hoe could Israel turn away from God.”
We can’t judge so fast though we need to take time and examine the Monsters inside of us, confess our sins, and come back to that place where It’s just you and God.
I have to constantly examine myself everyday for the sins that I have committed.
Thanks for your awesome ministry,
Michael
i tried to look for a reason to dispute, But I couldn’t. The study and lyrics work and makes sense to”Monster” Makes you wonder what is YOUR monster.
My comment is on the last 2 lines.I agree as we walk in the presence of God , He does give us the power to become a new person in Him. However, that is not a “free pass” to do willful sin and believe that it is all covered by grace or belief.
This devotional really brings one of my favorite songs to life! Great reminder that Jesus loves us despite our monster inside!
my favorite bible verse is roman’s 12:2 because once you learn to give up worldly things and fully give all of yourself to god then and only then will the gates of his love be poured over you…its not easy to do but once you do it you wont regret it
I really like this. I think it is a good idea to know the bible verses behind the songs. Maybe that would get people to read their bibles more. Keep up the good work.
I have to agree with Nate, it is really nice to see the song broken down in a sense so you can fully appreciate the meaning behind it. It helps make the message more alive and applicable.
Matthew 11:28 come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens and i will give you rest
I was struggling with some sin a while back that was taking my mind away from God. This song, along with Sanctus Real’s song, Forgiven, and Josh Wilson’s song, Savior Please, really spoke to the “monster” that I was holding inside. I have told a couple of people who are able to keep me accountable. Boy, it sure does feel a lot better than it did when I was hiding it. I no longer feel like I have to give in to the tempation of that sin. For me personally, God is now more than enough to fight the temptation.
Ditto that Nate, now when my Mom asks me what “Monster” is about (she’s leery of Skillet and other more “rock” type of Christian music sometimes), I can tell her about this . . . =) This Bible lesson works perfectly with Skillet’s song. Thanks and I hope that there will be more posts like this in the future!
My favorite verse is from Isaiah 40:31, and knowing that God will give me the strenth to overcome anything, I know that through His Son, I have only to turn to Him and the “monster” will be kept in his cage. Thank you for this. I have never thought about Peter’s dispair in that time in such a way as you showed me.
I am so glad we worship a Jesus that is forgiving. Christians are not perfect, just forgiven.
Each of us has a “monster” inside.For some of us it is lust ir envy or pride etc. Jesus came to Earth to free us from this “monster”.It is up to each person to find out what this “monster” is and to know for sure that by accepting Jesus as our Savoir,he has freed us from this monster.We then can live a life serving Jesus and letting everyone know how they can be free as well.
I have definitely felt this Monster creeping up inside me. Anytime I am angry or I say something that I will later regret. Sometimes it is road rage or I think something mean about someone else. This is all evidence of this monster that I live with everyday. We all have this and the only way to keep it at bay is to stay close to God. Through prayer, church, and the Bible. The more I surround myself with Godly people and Godly purpose, the easier it is to keep the Monster down. But it is always there pulling at the back of my mind.
I think it’s awesome when someone else or the band puts together a bible around a song. Many times we can guess what a song means, but don’t really know what the author was thinking, but in this case, we get to get inside their minds. Awesome, thanks freeccm!
What I love most about the song Monster and all of Skillet’s music is that is an authentic representation of us and of God’s character. We are not much different today than the people we read about in the Bible although our surroundings have changed. The best news from these verses in Luke is that God is a God of second chances and sometimes thirds. God loves us despite our monsters. He knows them better than we ever will. Through loving Him and believing in Him we can tame the beast. He defeated it! Skillet’s music is amazing!
thank you for sharing this. My favorite verse is Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight”.
Wow I never thought of it that way, that’s a pretty good example. I guess that’s happened to me a lot too, when I have a chance to take a stand for Jesus I back down or take no action, I did it just the other day. I guess the monster inside took over and held me back. The big problem with me is I have a hard time letting God come in and help me keep the monster back. Really great study guys, thanks.
I find this study very interesting and scary as well. If we think about our own lives, what side of our personality have we locked away when we became a christian. What changed when you found faith? What sin do you try to hide existed in your life? As much as we may think we have changed there may come a time when that sin comes out again, against our own will but in line with our sinful nature. We must continue to rely on Jesus to help us keep the darkest parts of our heart locked away because they are always there, lurking.
When my kids (ages 3, 5, and 8) get into the car, they always ask for Monster to be played–and at the loudest volume I will tolerate. Then we all scream the lyrics as we drive down the road.
Last 4th of July, we are at my aunt and uncle’s sitting around their swimming pool and my youngest (age 2 at the time) starts singing Monster out of the Blue. My cousin looks at her and says, “You’re father’s been making you listed to Skillet, hasn’t he?”
I always viewed Monster as Romans 7, but this is a really good way of seeing it too! Thanks!
That monster inside myself is exactly what convinces me that I need a Savior. I can’t get rid of it myself, no matter how hard I try. So thankful that Jesus loves me, in spite of the monster and wants to forgive me.
Psalm 91 – “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in Him I will trust”.
I was really glad to finally know what this song. While it’s very true that we all have a dark side, it’s not a very comforting thought. Thankfully Jesus has freed those of us who are saved from sin!!
I really like this. This is a great thing to find out about songs (the bible verses behind the lyrics) and I feel that it gives the song a lot more meaning. Disciple is another band I love in addition to Skillet, and I know they have bible verses next to the song titles (or even after each line) next to the lyrics in their album booklets. Since I don’t have the album with the digital booklet, I don’t know if they do this or not, but I feel that it’s a great thing too have.
I for one am, for the most part, turned off by random bible verses or lessons such as a church sermon. But when I listen to a song I like, then look up the lyrics, check the bible verses associated with it, this allows me to get into reading the bible much easier, so I thank Christian bands for that.
Thank you for sharing this! I have to admit, as much as I love ‘Monster’ it was one of my least favorite songs on Awake. Why? Because lyrically I didn’t really understand it. I never connected the monster with sin. It makes a lot more sense now, beings that we deal with sin and temptations multiple times a day. When we give in, the monster is unleashed.
PS… I agree with the other comments. You should do this sort of thing more often. Thanks again for sharing!
Never though about Peter’s denial of Jesus in this way. I will have to listen to the song with new eyes, now.
I know a lot of people who won’t listen to this song because they don’t understand how it’s “Christian” and I’ve tried explaining it but it never came out well enough for them to understand, and now I have something to show them! I agree with every bit of what you said! I love reading about and discussing what songs mean, especially in “non-worship” Christian bands. Thanks for doing this Bible study! Keep em coming! 🙂
Some of us are like Peter… we go through the motions of life and proclaim to know Jesus, but when it comes down to it… we have that “little faith” and deny Him.
Some of us conform to the world and let the world control our lives, when we need to let go and let God take control of our lives!
When I read this Bible study, I couldn’t help relate it to “Lord of the Flies.” In the novel, all the boys disregard their moral beliefs and let the “monster” inside of them take control.
Many of us today are going through the storms of life. The question is, who will you put your trust in?
I hope your answer is JESUS CHRIST! He is the ONLY One who can give you peace, hope, and the assurance you need to make it through this life!
That was really good reading. I love getting sucked into the Bible, where you just can’t stop reading. So, and online Bible study is pretty amazing. My favorite verse is Psalms 147:3
“He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds.” That verse means more than I can ever say to me
“Peter became the enemy of God”, what a striking statement that we can all put our own name into. And actually make one change, “became” should be “is” in relation to our life before Christ. Paul reminds of that in Romans that outside of God’s grace we are the enemies of God, but in Christ we are His friend. We all have this “monster” inside of us, and God can heal us and make us into His saints!
It’s refreshing to know that this was something that even Peter, perhaps the closest person to Jesus struggled with this issue. But he didn’t let it stop him. He still went on to become one of the greatest men ever in the Church.
This was SO what needed today. Thank you for posting this, I feel it was just for me and the monsters I’ve been trying to keep locked inside. It’s good to realize that even Peter had his monsters to deal with.
Y’know, I never thought of Monster relating to Peter’s denial.
Although Peter denied Jesus, he stayed faithful to Him. He ended up turning back to God to go and preach to those who were lost. Even though the monster won a minor battle, God won the war within Peter, and He loved him anyway, regardless of what he did.
We all question our faith at times, and sometimes we are even tempted to deny our faith to fit in because we’re afraid of what others will think. God is always with us, and He will shine through us to be a light to the world, if we allow Him to without being afraid of what others think.
That was a great bible study based off of “Monster.” I had never thought of Peter’s denial that way, but that is so true that he dealt with a monster inside of him as we all do. It’s also great to think that Jesus accepts us, even with that monster we have inside of us. But since that is why he came to save us, so he could conquer that monster. I had never thought of it that way, but that is such a great way to look at that. So glad I can see this song with this biblical truth behind it, that’s amazing.
Wow, this is incredible!!! I love the relation of “Monster” to this story! I’ve heard it and read it many, many times, but this gives a really interesting new perspective to it. …”Cause if I let him out, he’ll tear me up, bring me down….” Exactly what happened to Peter, and I know every one of us has this potential to betray our creator…
The other day I read something like this: There is no such thing as evil. God did not create evil. Evil is just a word people use to describe the absence of God in our lives. I think that is a really cool thought, and so true that the absence of God will result in the most horrible “evil.”
my fave verse has 2 b John 15:16 it talks about how we didnt pick jesus but chose us!
I love how Christ forgives Peter when he messes up, and how He always forgives us when we mess up.
it answer alot of question how this song and the bible verse has in common and i love the song and now i see why they wrote the song that for the inside to the song
I love this bible study post! We find it hard to believe that we have a monster inside of us, but we do. The doubting, afflicted, pained, hurt, wounded, fearful monster. Thank you for this and for reminding me that Jesus can heal this monster inside of me if I just let him!! Thank you, my Friend, my Savior, my God!
Great song and video, by the way. My children and I love it!!
I love the message in this song. So many times I feel exactly like what he says in the song.
After reading this study, I remember leaving a peaceful mens church retreat and driving down the road. I was cut off by another car and immediatly I wanted to cuss. And then I was amazed at myself that after being in Gods presence through worship and praying that I would still have that in me. Since then, I have discovered that being a Christian is to be ‘like’ Christ but your never going to be him, nowhere close. We are are always going to have somekind of monster lurking
in us till the the day Jesus returns to redeem our sinful bodies. I love Skillet and their body of work. May God continue to bless them and their listeners!!!
I think we’ve all felt the “monster” inside of us at one time or another. The thing I love about this song is that it brings this topic out into the light..where nothing dark can survive. We need to realize and let the world know that we, as Christians, are not perfect…we will lose our cool, make mistakes, be bad examples, whatever…but one thing we are is SAVED! We know what to do about these mistakes, who to go to, who to talk to, and how to expose these monsters for what they truly are.
Wow, that’s deep. Thanks for the great insight. My thought is, taking away our “Monsters” is part of Jesus’ ultimate healing and “Rebirthing” of our souls. When we get born again, Jesus starts curbing and taking away our “Monster” inside little by little as we yield ourselves and our sin to Him. Love Skillet!
Good point! Peter’s sin was a monster in his life. He allowed his sin nature to take hold and he denied Christ. And it’s always an awesome thought how Christ accepts our mistakes even when he knows what they are going to be :).
TWO DAYS AGO MY DEAR COUSIN LOST THE BATTLE WITH THE MONSTER INSIDE HER. SOMETIMES IN LIFE AS WITH PETER KNOWING JESUS IS STILL NOT ENOUGH FOR THOSE WHO “THE MONSTER” HAS GOT A HOLD OF. I PRAY THAT MY COUSIN IS RESTING IN PEACE NOW WITH JESUS. THANK YOU FOR THE BIBLE STUDY.
It really puts the story into perspective to really realize that Jesus knew Peter would deny Him, but didn’t do anything to dissuade him. One can hardly imagine the regret and shame Peter felt as the rooster crowed, reminding him of Christ’s prophetic statement.
I believe that i get the true meaning of this story now, more than ever before. Peter was a follower of Christ. He believed not only out of faith, but also because of all the miracles he had seen. That makes me think that Peter should have had more faith than the rest of us, but now i realize Peter was just like us. He had little faith, and he was too prideful and scared to stand up and profess that he was a follower of the one true Christ, and its all because he let his inner “Monster” out. This story applies to us just as much as it did for people when Jesus lived. If we cant control the “Monster” inside of us then we will fall prey just like Peter did. We have just as little faith as Peter. We don’t even have faith the size of a mustard seed yet Christ gave his life when really we deserved to die. It really convicts me to think about that. So we need to control our inner “Monster” and not deny Christ like Peter did, He let his inner “monster” out and it did exactly as the song said, it tore him up and he denied Christ.
i just like how Jesus told Peter that he would deny Him. It just made the ending so much, maybe better is the wrong word. but it was like, Peter felt worse that Jesus told Peter he would deny Him. so that made the guilt more, which I think was what shaped Peter into the person he would become. God used it for His glory. it’s so cool.
I often feel the monster inside ready to escape. I put my foot in my mouth like Peter trying to be bold and get put in place so many time, I do things as Paul writes that I know I should not do and do not do the things I know I should do. It’s our human nature this Monster.
My 14 yr old son is a drummer and now also playing guitar. He found a way on his drums and thru his music to work thru his struggles. Monster played over and over and over in his room as he drummed along. The words were a confirmation for him, as a pastor’s son, that he didn’t have to be perfect(even though we told him, he would put that pressure on himself), and he was going to make mistakes and he was allowed to. I know the “monster” of anger is a challenge for him, but with God’s help, he has tempered it, and he has come such a long way. Thanks for the song that gave Ian the words!
Wow, a nice Biblical look at one of Skillet’s harder songs. Bravo! 🙂
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, [fn] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
I am so thankful Jesus died to save me from the Monster inside!
i love this!!!!!!! it was really cool! i am using this idea for a bible study for my youth group! its gonna be cool! i have tons of ideas for it! cant wait! love skillet! they are the best!
“Peter followed at a distance” always gets to me for some reason.
It just makes me think of how often I do that myself, I just kind of slow down and let God go ahead of me, as I watch from a “safe” distance instead of getting involved with my life and His ministry.
It makes me think of Romans 7:19: “For I do not do the good I want, but I do the very evil I do not want!”
How many times have I wanted to do something good, but the monster inside has me doing just the opposite. It truly is a constant struggle to stay on the path, and I slip and fall constantly.
Thankfully, as it says above, “It turns out that the monster inside us is exactly why Jesus came to earth. We could never restrain the monster ourselves; it’s much too powerful.”
Praise God for sending his Son to die for us and forgiving us all for the “monster” we harbor inside.
This sounds like the story of my last few years. But finally, finally I think I can begin to say my favorite verse is a better description of my life: “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you;my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.” Psalms 63:1
This is something I just became aware of at 53 yrs old. It is mortifying to realize that even though I have been a christian for 13 yrs, I can still deny Him when troubles arise. Thankfully He loves me enough to forgive and let me return.
I love that Jesus still loves me no matter how “monstrously” I behave. I can’t even imagine how heartbroken Peter must have felt. I know I’m heartbroken when I act like a jerk, and I do it a lot more regularly than I’d like to admit. What sweet relief for Jesus to welcome him (and me!) back into His arms. We don’t deserve the mercy and grace that we receive, but I’m thankful that we do!! We serve a loving God 🙂
I have been a Skillet fan for sometime now. I always wondered about how this song could be found in the scriptures, and now I just read a great example of it. The “monster” inside us all isn’t a very nice thing to admit to have, but truth is, everybody does. It’s very comforting to know that even know Jesus knew what Peter was going to do, he still loved him anyway. That I think is what people need to know about Jesus, is that he knows every bad part about us, but still loves us more than we will ever know.
I love this song! This is such a great way to look at it. Sometimes it seems like my heart sometimes is run by the “monster” inside. Sometimes it seems too hard to let go of that. Then I sit down and read passages like this and know I’m not alone, and I can conquer the beast within.
My favorite verses are Psalm 16:1 and 2
1 Keep me safe, O God,
for in you I take refuge.
2 I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing.”
It reminds me of God’s presence in our lives. 🙂
As I approach middle age and look back, i realize how many times the monster made me deny Christ, not in words but in actions. i am thankful for the emergence of Christian music in my life and it has been a binding force between me and my children. One of my favorite memories is attending a Skillet concert and, even though it was well beloew zero degrees outside as we left, my sons and I did’nt notice the temp as we discussed what a great concert it was as we went to the car.
“The magnificent part of this story is that Jesus knew about the monster inside Peter and loved him anyway. Jesus predicted that Peter would betray him, but he never turned his back on him.”
Dude this is so powerful that even when we screw things up and give in to our sin nature or the monster inside of us God still loves us and won’t leave us for it.
Monster was a song that clicked with me immediately. I understand the monster within all too well. Sometimes in my life it felt as if that monster was getting out all too often. You try to deny it, but it grows. It’s only with the aide of Christ that we can contain, control, and eventually destroy the monster within us. Although it will not go away until the day we enter the Kingdom of Heaven, Christ helps us to at least minimize its appearances and shrink it in size. Our monsters could be anything: a disdain for a certain group of people, anger that we can’t/won’t control, laziness, even a desire to fit in so much that we ignore God’s commandments when we’re with friends who aren’t believers. Sanctification helps us to restrain and eventually overcome them until finally we reach the end goal(heaven) and all of the monster will be destroyed.
I’m with Jonathan up top, and a bit more. Romans 7 would be the foundation on which the study rests. Understanding who we are and seeing it played out in the narrative of Peters story would be a great help for us to understand that we too behave as Peter did. We every day commit the same sin to a greater or lesser degree, but we do. I thank God for His mercy and grace. This should keep us in the direction of obedience to His will and evermore conforming to His image.
Thanks for this study. I really hope this is the backstory to the song.
Don
This passage in Scripture has always seemed like an ultimate lesson in humility to me. That a person who knew who Jesus was; had spent days, weeks, months, years in the presence of Jesus; and who definitely loved Him should still deny Him in the face of persecution. This let’s me know that anyone can fall. However, even when we do allow the ‘monster’ to surface, Christ is there to grant us forgiveness and pick us back up to try again, to live for Him.
I never really thought about how our sin is a monster that we sometimes let out..but it so reassuring that Jesus still loves us through all that 🙂
This is my absolute favorite song next to Comatose. Unfortunately in truth, I never really understood how Skillet was a Christian band until now (or for this particular song). Now that I understand this song, I feel like it relates to me everyday. The monster within me is always trying to take over me so that I would fit better in my school environment. There aren’t many true Christians in my school, but with the few that we do have, we help to support each other so that we may stay in our faith and encourage each other to keep the natural monster within each other out and God in. We fight a battle with the monster that is lurking around us everyday, yet no matter what we do, sometimes we lose; yet, with God in our hearts and each others’ strength, we are able to overcome the monster beneath our skin.
When I first started my walk with God I always wondered why Jesus asked Peter if Peter loved him three separate times in succession (John 21:15-17). I didn’t understand why Peter was hurt that Jesus asked him three times. Did Jesus not believe Peter? I just didn’t understand this exchange. Then, in my quiet reading and reflection time one day, God opened my eyes… Peter denied Jesus three times and Jesus asked Peter three times. It was Peters chance at redemption, a chance to profess his love for Jesus and put his denial into the past. I think that’s why Peter was hurt, when Jesus asked the third time, his betrayal came to mind. The song “Monster” definitely reminds me of the monster that lives in me, the epic battle between good and evil occurring in my heart and mind at every single moment of the day, awake or asleep. It reminds me to stay focused on God and what is pleasing to Him so that I “feed” the Holy Spirit living in me and not the monster of sin in my life. Skillet has become one of my favorite bands and I am joyous that my 10 year old nephew lists them as his favorite band. His first concert (and only so far) was a trip to Six Flags over Texas to see Skillet. Glory to God for bands like this bringing His word to those of us who like this kind of music.
When I was little I went to a Skillet concert and loved it! I loved this message and it is exactly what I needed to hear. A few years ago I did what I never thought I would ever do, and I turned into the “monster.” My best friend committed suicide when we were 16 years old and I turned my back on God, Jesus, and all that came with it. I blamed him for my best friend taking his life and I thought I was all alone. I went to church still and just sat there ignoring everything that was being taught. About six months ago while ignoring the messages I just kept hearing the paster say “Jesus Loves you and never leaves you alone.” I started to get curious again about being a christian. I listened to Skillet, Thousand Foot Krutch, and Lecrea during the past four years and to be honest, those artist kept me from turning away completely from christianity. Now I am 20 and I feel like I am a beginner again, but I want to tame the monster that has trapped me for the past four years.
Great study. My favorite bible verse is Phillipians 4:13
I love the fact that we can create a Bible study from a rock song! This song has helped me by making me realize that we all have a monster inside that we try to fight even though we also try to hide it from everyone else. Even Peter, a loyal follower of Jesus, was taken over by his “monster” at one point. Even though he fell, he still got back up again and continued to spread the Word of God!
I think it is so awesome that a rock band has such as awesome message. I think it is a great thing to realize that we all have a monster inside of us and we have to fight it. I also think its really cool that a band with such a positive message has such a big secular fan base!
I love this song and this study is awesome! My husband is a youth minister and i am passing this along to share in his youth group time and in the FCA groups he helps lead. Thank you to Skillet for such great music and a lesson to make me think!
At a recent Wednesday nite bible study for our youth, we related songs to the verses of the bible.
I have to say, my favorite verse is ” I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strenght.” Philippians 4:13.
I have been a christian since I was 10 years old. Now this last summer my son accepted Christ as his savior. We both love music and have a common thread in the song “It’s not me it”s you”.
We saw the band when they came to Chicago for the Harvest Festivel. What a concert. My son is a Skillet “freak” and is not afraid to let his classmates know who the band is and what they stand for.
I know my son would be overjoyed to get the poster.
We work with our youth in Bonners Ferry through our church. We never imagined ourselves working with teenagers. We really did not think our teenage son would like for his parents to be leaders of his group. But, he thinks it is awesome. Our kids are varied. Some know Jesus, some have never held a Bible, some are angry, some are searching. God is leading His kids to our group for a purpose. We remember being their age. We remember the aloneness there is as a teenager. The doubts, the insecurities, the anger, the frustration, the peer pressure. And so on. All this leads to the Monster they have no clue how to understand. Thank you to God for these kids coming to our group. We are priviledged to share His love with them.
Hm… I LOVE Skillet and “Monster” but I never could really pin-point exactly what the song is about. This puts it into a new perspective for me! Thanks!
Wow.. i LOVE Skillet, and the song Monster… and i always wanted to know where the inspiration for the song came from…. It’s cool to finally connect the dots.. ) Thanks!
I faced a time in my life where I was in a place of imprisonment sort of, and I was confronted with whether I knew God or not? I denied knowing him because I thought it would help me get out of that place, while crossing my fingers. I don’t think that mattered to God that I crossed my fingers, but I always remembered that story of peter denying Jesus and said I never would, then when I was in that type of situation, I did the same thing. I will always know now that peter got scared and didn’t trust and that can happen to any of us, but God wants us to understand how we can’t deny him no matter what as this shows our lack of trust. The skillet song monster defines how we can have a lack of faith, but we need to never lack trust in God who created us for good and not evil.
I love this bibly study and the scripture used to shine light on the “monster” inside all of us. I think that is very true and really shines the light on who we are as humanity. We are not perfect by any means, but I thank God for His saving and redeeming power.
Even in our failures, Christ still went to the cross. Even in our denials, God still loves us. I am grateful for God and Him loving us the way that He does. He continues to draw us in and challenges us to confront our monster. I know there are things that only God and I know about and yet He still loves me the same. Wow… I’m not even sure that I would want to love me (LOL). But He does. He knows the Monster we are at times and just requires for us to still come to Him, open and willing to allow Him to work on those dark places.
My favorite scriptures are Romans 12: 1-2 and Galatians 6:9. We should not continue to hide or become a product of our society, we need to be renewed in Christ. Do not give up even though you fail, you will reap a harvest in your trying and moving forward. Praise God.
I would just like to say that even though God does love us unconditionally, we must note the fact that Peter was at an all time low when he realized what he had done. Yes, God will be more patient with us than we can understand but, if we do become the monster that is packaged with our fleshly dwelling, we need to have a Godly sorrow. If not, we are enemies of God. Too many congregations today are falling for the “warm fuzzies” of God and ignoring His wrath. It’s somewhat easy to become a part of God’s kingdom but extremely difficult to stay a part of God’s kingdom.
I appreciate those of you who gave your thoughts as well, it’s encouraging to know that Skillet is more than just music to some people. Thank you!
Skillet has really been a pioneer in translating scripture into rock music and in generating the rock-worship genre. It’s a beautiful thing when grunge guitar can mix with melody and be a tool to praise our Lord and King. This is how I view our abilities to worship God sometimes. We take our dirty hands along with our corrupted minds and by the Grace of God, He accepts our praise and worship as beautiful. He is beautiful enough to make the “monster” in us quiver and in His presence there is no room for the monster to breathe.
We see that Peter can’t deny Jesus to His face because He is overwhelmed by the absurdity of the thought that Jesus isn’t who He says He is. But we all know how easy it is to deny Him when we’ve surrounded ourselves with other things and have placed other objects into our affection. The monster is fed only when Jesus isn’t around.
I love the fact that Jesus loves us SO MUCH that he’s willing to run to us and conquer our monster any time, no matter how big it’s grown while we’ve been away.
I love this!
I too have that monster inside of that, when it comes out, I can’t stand it. And it’s in those moments that I think, “How in the world can Jesus love someone like me?” Though I won’t understand until I see Him one day I am forever grateful for His love and mercy.
Thank you God for loving me despite the monster inside.
🙂
We all have a monster side that wants to keep us quiet and hiding in the dark. But it’s time that rise up and slay that dark ,weak side and tell satan to shut up his lying mouth and remind him that we know his future and send him on his way.
!i luv skillet’s muzak!
People may say they have nothing to hide, but even those who look pure have something they are keeping tucked away from most people. Their secret may not look as bad as most people’s, but it is still sin. However, we should not condemn or look down upon other people or beat ourselves up for the sin we have inside, nor should we be surprised.
“The heart is more deceitful than anything else, and incurable—who can understand it? I, the Lord, examine the mind, I test the heart to give to each according to his way, according to what his actions deserve”
Jer 17:9-10 (HCSB)
Though we are Christians and filled with the Holy Spirit we still have to deal with the flesh. It is a daily struggle to put the body in submission (1 Cor 9:27)
So many look at the Apostle Paul as being a superhero of a Christian, and yet even he admitted to struggling with the flesh:
“For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am made out of flesh, sold into sin’s power. For I do not understand what I am doing, because I do not practice what I want to do, but I do what I hate. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree with the law that it is good. So now I am no longer the one doing it, but it is sin living in me.”
Romans 7:14-17 (HCSB)
This does not mean we can do what ever we want to do (Rom 6:15) but rather explains why we have struggles and still sin. We are under a lifetime transformation unto perfection.(1st Cor. 15), We are to be constantly involved in prayer, bible study, and fellowship to nurture this process of transformation.
“Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God”.
Romans 12:1-2 (HCSB)
We might think we can never get rid of the monster inside of us, that no matter what we do we will still have the issue, this however is not true. Jesus came to set us free from all sin, and whom He sets free is indeed free! (John 8:30-36) It is an issue of faith and submission. Repentance is not mearly admitting to having sinned, it is turning from sinful behavior and running to the Lord and engaing in His will. His will is prayer, bible study, fellowship, ministry, and good works. (Mat 24:31-46) We are set free, let us live freely!
Let us all do His will together in our worshiping of Him 🙂
great article. My favorite verses right now are Psalm 63
I think skillet is incredible.they hit problems head on in Jesus’ name.with their awesome guitars,phenomenal vocals,and unashamed faith,they are one of my favorites!!!!!
Great reminder that that monster is always there. We need to always ask for GOd’s help in keeping that monster at bay.
Ephesians 6:10
So simple and straightforward, but so powerful!
This sheds new light on the song……Very interesting.
Something we all really need to remember.
Thanks for the Bible study.
My favorite Bible verses are Proverbs 3:5-6. They were my father’s favorites, and I have adopted them for my own life. Thanks!!
I’ve never really thought of the song in relation to Peter but how true. Thanks so much. I know I have a “monster” side and I can’t stand the way I can be. I’m going to read this a few more times and look forward to more studies you post. Thanks!
Psalms 139. It reminds me every day that I don’t have to deal with life by myself.
Monster is based off the passage in Romans 7:14-25, which describes the sinful nature of every person that seeks to destroy each of our souls. This is a very powerful song about overcoming our sinful nature (through the redemptive salvation of Jesus) and not giving in to our evil/sinful temptations and impulses. I am so thankful that I serve a God who is more powerful than sin and enpowers me to overcome my own monster!
My favorite verse is ” I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strenght.” Philippians 4:13. Skillet has been a strong influence in my Son’s life and has helped bring us together.
For the longest time I always thought this song was just another one of those “emo” songs that was merely a cry for attention. It is cool to know now that there is a Christian background behind it.
I have two favorites actually. The first being Eph. 6:12 “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” This one in particular has always helped me in my walk with Christ especailly during the times I have no idea what’s going on…when everything seems to be falling apart…when temptation comes my way!
My second one would be Rev. 20:10 “The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” That one verse sums it all up! It tells of Satans eventual fate. We won’t always have to put up with him as this verse clearly lays it out! I can’t wait for that day!!! I want a front row seat for that event
I was once a monster full of hate and pain then God swooped in to save the day
at first I resisted His mercy and Grace but then I accepted Him now alive I am!!!
Hey John,
I have followed you guys and been blessed ever since I first saw you at a free concert at Rimrock E-Free church in Johnson Siding, South Dakota. The I was blessed to see you again in Denver, when you were the Praise Band at Youthquake. I am a part of the international motorcycle ministry, Black Sheep Harley Davidsons For Christ, and my road name is “Alien.” I also am part of the Youth Ministry Team at Open Bible Christian Center in Rapid City. We are just starting some small group meetings in homes and my partner and I are using Christian Rock artists and their music. The Bible Study that you did on the Alien Youth DVD has been one I have used. I was looking for similar Bible Studies for your other songs on the website and hadn’t found any. I was grateful to find this source. I was wondering if you have other sources for Bible Studies associated with your songs. Keep rockin for Jesus and speaking to the hearts of our young people, and some of us not so young!! I hope that you can make it out to the Black Hills again before too long.
When I feel like im going to be overwhelmed by my problems or by my flesh I remember that I don´t need to fight this all by myself and with the help of God i can overtake eveyrthing.
Very great information can be found on weblog .
Wow! There is so much more to the monster song than I gave it credit for. I thought it was just a song to go crazy to.
my son just turned me onto Skillet yesterday and I’m so impressed with the music and message. It’s so wonderful that he can listen to the music he loves and get a positive Christian message at the same time. He actually mentioned this particular song while we were talking yesterday and we discussed how God helps ‘tame’ the monster thats in all of us. After all there’d be many more problems in the world if we had less people in control of their ‘Monster’