1Peter1
1Peter-1:1-2 – an Introduction to the letter…
1 Peter 1:1-3 (NASB77)
1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen
2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, that you may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure.
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
V.3 – Praises to God with God’s mercy always at the center of the discussion of salvation. (God, the father, did not exist before Jesus, the son, as Jesus always existed. (John 1:1-3) “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
Salvation is given to us because of God’s great mercy alone. The ‘new birth’ refers to spiritual birth (regeneration).. “have been born again” (anagennao) G313- LN13.55 (1Pet1v3)
Believers are reborn into a ‘living hope’ – The ‘hope’ refers to our confident expectation of life to come. “Living” means that it grows and gains strength with the more we learn about Jesus Christ.
Quote: Life Application Commentary: –
BORN AGAIN!
Is “born again” politically correct? (“New birth” means the same as “born again”; see 1:23.) Ever since Jimmy Carter’s presidency, news commentators have struggled to understand what Christians mean by “born again.” Currently the phrase is used to label Christians on the political right wing. Almost always in the news media, “born again” is a term of derision.
So let’s unravel the facts:
- All Christians are born-again. The term is a wonderful metaphor of new life from God. You cannot be a Christian without a fresh beginning based on the salvation Christ brings.
- Born-again people have a new set of priorities and values, but not a prescribed political agenda. God calls us to pursue justice and love, but how we do so varies. No political party is born-again.
- To be born-again is a magnificent gift from God. It is also a dividing line. Cross it, and you enter God’s kingdom. Not everyone will understand. But that’s no cause for arrogance or defensiveness. Just demonstrate God’s love and justice. That’s your new job that accompanies your new birth.[1]
1 Peter 1:4
4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,
V.4 – Two results: 10 the new birth, “the living hope” – and our inheritance… The Greek word eis means “into” and “kleronomia G2817 & LN57.132 means “Inheritance”. (1Pet1v4)
“an Inheritance” “kleronomia” – The Jews look forward to the “promised Land of Canaan” and their ‘inheritance’… An inheritance comes freely to the heirs; they cannot obtain it by their own efforts. The word is fittingly describing what God give to the believers.
NOTE ABOVE that Peter uses three words to describe this inheritance…
“aphthartos” – Imperishable
“amlantos” – ritually untainted
“amarantos” – Unfading
The inheritance is kept in heaven for us…
1 Peter 1:4-5 (NASB77)
4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,
5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
V.5 – “…protected by God’s power….” And to be revealed…”
The Greek word “phroureo” meaning “guarded, shielded” – is a military term used to refer to a garrison within a city. (2 Thess. 3:3) (Jude 24)….(1Pet1v5)
1st our inheritance is protected and 2nd we are protected.
The goal of that protection is “salvation”.
Peter said these were ready to be revealed, indicating that he knew he was living in the “last time” (see also 1:20).
Peter lived in the last time (or last days), and so have all believers since. The “last time” comprises the period (however long it will be) between Christ’s first and second comings. What has started will be fully disclosed when he returns.
1 Peter 1:6 (NASB77)
6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,
V.6 – “we are greatly rejoiced,… for a little while you may suffer grief in all kinds of trials”….
“rejoice” (agalliao) G21, LN25.133 – is also translated “to exult”…. (1Pet1v6)
Quote: LBC:
Christians became the target of persecution for four main reasons: (1) They refused to worship the emperor as a god and thus were viewed as atheists and traitors. (2) They refused to worship at pagan temples, so business for these moneymaking enterprises dropped wherever Christianity took hold. (3) They didn’t support the Roman ideals of self, power, and conquest, and the Romans scorned the Christian ideal of self-sacrificing service. (4) They exposed and rejected the horrible immorality of pagan culture. (See the introduction to 1 Peter for more about the persecution of believers.)
The words “may have had [to suffer]” are literally translated “if (or since) it is necessary.” Peter made the point that no individual’s suffering escapes God’s notice and control. God uses that person’s experience according to his infinitely wise plans for that person. Grief and suffering do not happen without cause or reason. While it may never be clear to us, God must be trusted to carry out his purposes, even in times of trial. All believers face such trials when they let their lights shine into the darkness. We must accept trials as part of the refining process that burns away impurities and prepares us to meet Christ. Trials teach us patience (Romans 5:3–4; James 1:2–3) and help us grow to be the people God wants.[2]
Christians will grieve for only a little while..
QUOTE: LBC: WHY ME?
The problem has vexed philosophers since they first asked questions: Why does an all-powerful, good God permit suffering? To which most people add: “And if someone has to suffer, why me?” Instead of answering these questions on the philosophical level, Christians face suffering by adopting a new set of responses:
- Confidence that God knows, plans, and directs our lives for the good. It’s hard to calculate sometimes, but God always provides his love and strength for us. God leads us toward a better future.
- Perseverance when facing grief, anger, sorrow, and pain. Christians believe in expressing grief, but we should never give in to bitterness and despair.
- Courage because with Jesus as Brother and Savior, we need not be afraid. He who suffered for us will not abandon us. Jesus carries us through everything.
Instead of asking, “Why me?” respond to your trials with confidence, perseverance, and courage.
1 Peter 1:7 (NASB77)
7 that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
V.7 – “the genuineness of your faith – being more precious than gold that, through perishable, is tested by fire…”
Statement: “Suffering refines people’s faith.” – ? – How?
Quote: LABC – Reasons to Rejoice in Trials:
| 1. Trials strengthen our faith.
|
“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance” (Romans 5:3 NIV) (See also 1 Peter 4:19.) |
| 2. Trials help us look forward to the glory we will experience when Christ comes to restore us. | “And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Peter 5:10 NRSV). |
| 3. Trials expose a deep vein of patience in us. | “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness” (Galatians 5:22 NIV). |
| 4. Trials help us resist worldly desires. | “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same intention (for whoever has suffered in the flesh has finished with sin)” (1 Peter 4:1 NRSV). |
| 5. Trials can bring rewards from Jesus.
|
“Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12 NRSV). (See also Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17; 1 Peter 5:4.) |
How do trials prove the genuineness of one’s faith? A person living a comfortable life may find it very easy to be a believer. But to keep one’s faith in the face of ridicule, slander, persecution, or even death proves the true value of that faith. The fire of difficulty and suffering tests the genuineness of faith. If believers can trust God and rejoice when surrounded by persecution and when they cannot see the outcome or understand the reason, then their faith has been proved genuine and will not be forgotten by God.
Such faith results in praise and glory and honor. Although it is unclear whether these will be directed to the believers or to Jesus Christ, most likely Peter was encouraging these scattered believers. Their genuine faith would be rewarded by praise, glory, and honor bestowed upon them by God himself when Jesus Christ returns (is revealed) to judge the world and take believers home.
While we Wait:
Christians look toward the return of Jesus, when pain will end and perfect justice begin. Faith will be rewarded and evil will be punished. But what should we do until then?
–The Bible’s answer is simple but not easy: Because we know the future, we must faithfully serve God here and now. If today that means resolving a conflict, mending a hurt, working a dull job, confronting a belligerent child, rebuilding a marriage, or just waiting for guidance—do it all with the joy of God, who will return with his reward! (Quote LABC)
1 Peter 1:8 (NASB77)
8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,
V.8 – Although you have not seen him, you love (agapao) him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe (pisteu) in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy.
This verse exults Love and Trust which are the two crucial ingredients in any meaningful relationship.
Love (agapao) LN25.43 – Believe (pisteuo)– LN31.85 – (1Pet1v8)
LN 25.43 ἀγαπάωa; ἀγάπηa, ης f: to have love for someone or something, based on sincere appreciation and high regard—‘to love, to regard with affection, loving concern, love.’ἀγαπάω
This word ‘love’ ‘agapao’ is the love of the will, the noblest form of love.
John 20:29 – John 20:29 (NASB77)
29 Jesus •said to him, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”
Quote LABC: JOY
“Why don’t I have joy?” a wife asks her husband. She believes in God, she believes in Jesus, but is there something more?
It’s a common question. All of life’s checkpoints add up—family, job, paycheck, health—but something’s missing.
Peter had it—a sure, steady, and satisfying focus on Christ as the source. For Peter, joy was the presence of the living Christ in his heart and mind.
As you trust Christ each day and live in his company, you’re on the road to the joy you seek. Rise today expectantly; God has something more for you today.[3]
1 Peter 1:9 (NASB77)
9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
V.9 – “obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1Pet1v9)
When one can tap into all the present and future spiritual realities mentioned in this passage there would be no reason for believers to lose their joy.
“Salvation of your souls” would mean: “salvation of yourselves”
Salvation’s Greatness:
1 Peter 1:10-12 (NASB77)
10 As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful search and inquiry,
11 seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow.
12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven– things into which angels long to look.
A story:
The story began one summer’s day toward the end of the nineteenth century when an English city boy was on a visit to rural Scotland. That afternoon the boy went swimming in a small countryside lake. After swimming quite a distance from shore, a severe cramp seized him so that he could not continue swimming. He was in great pain and soon cried out at the top of his voice for help. A farm boy working in a nearby field heard the city boy’s screams and ran as fast as he could to the lake. There the farm boy threw off his shirt, dived into the water, swam to the imperiled city boy, and brought him safely to the shore.
Several years later the two boys met again. The city boy, still filled with gratitude that the other boy had saved his life, was thrilled to see the farm boy again and asked him what career the boy had decided to pursue. The farm boy said he had chosen a career in medicine. Since the city boy’s parents were quite wealthy and were greatly indebted to the other boy for saving their son’s life, upon hearing of the farm boy’s career choice they immediately promised to pay for his medical education. They followed through on their promise and the young man went on to have a brilliant career in scientific investigation.
In 1928 that farm boy, then both a physician and bacteriologist, discovered the famous wonder drug penicillin. In 1945 he shared the Nobel prize with two other scientists for the discovery and development of that antibiotic. That Scottish farm boy turned scientific researcher, who died in 1955, was Alexander Fleming.
The rescued city boy also gained great renown. During World War II he contracted a life-threatening case of pneumonia. He recovered at a hospital after receiving penicillin, which meant that indirectly the one-time farm boy Alexander Fleming had saved his life twice. The city boy’s name was Winston Churchill, the famous wartime British prime minister and world statesman. Interestingly, just like Fleming, Churchill won a Nobel prize. But in his instance, he won the 1953 award in literature for his incisive writings on the history of the Second World War.
It is wonderful to save a life, and even more wonderful to save someone’s life twice, especially when the one saved was such an influential person as Winston Churchill. But the hard-working, selfless contributions of Alexander Fleming are nothing compared to the greatness of saving people’s eternal souls. That great salvation is the heart of the apostle Peter’s concern in this passage. He wanted his believing audience to focus on that full, final rescue from sin, Satan, death, and hell that God so graciously chose to give them through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. Peter celebrates salvation’s greatness by reminding his readers that no matter how difficult the circumstances or how severe the persecution, they can confidently hold to the hope of eternal salvation. (JMcA)
In V.9 Pater brings attention: “…the salvation of your souls.”
The prophets received information about the means of “salvation” and they searched the scriptures to learn as much as they could about it. They were fascinated by the promises of salvation and even if not seeing “the cross” or the ‘full accomplishment’, they actually obtained salvation.
Their focus on study was on comprehending the work of Christ as He was the center of the grace that would come to sinners through Him. “Salvation” is the divine act of saving sinners.
The prophecies describing various aspects of the Messiah’s birth, life, death;, and resurrection revealed that everything that would happen to the Messiah had been ordained by God.
Note John 15:26 – that shows the Holy Spirit would explain the prophecies that told about Jesus.
John 15:26 (NASB77)
26 “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that isthe Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father,He will bear witness of Me,
John 16:14 (NASB77)
14 “He shall glorify Me; for He shall take of Mine, and shall disclose it to you.
We, as they, need to learn and appreciate the “GRACE” and “Mercy” that is extended to the human family. It was unmerited favor and undeserving for sinners.
Synonyms: Undeserving: unworthy, worthless, pitiful – (Contemptable – shameful – distasteful )
Noah received ‘grace’ from the Lord…
GRACE is demonstration by God’s laws – Moses records an example of a moral and property right principles:
Exodus 22:26-27 (NASB77)
26 “If you ever take your neighbor’s cloak as a pledge, you are to return it to him before the sun sets,
27 for that is his only covering; it is his cloak for his body. What else shall he sleep in? And it shall come about that when he cries out to Me, I will hear him, for I am gracious.
Recall Jonah’s struggle to accept the mercy of God as he knew god was a gracious and compassionate God. (Jonah 4:2).
REALLY – salvation has always been available to sinners:
Deuteronomy 32:15 (NASB77)
15 ” But Jeshurun grew fat and kicked– You are grown fat, thick, and sleek–Then he forsook God who made him,And scorned the Rock of his salvation.
Isaiah 55:1-2 (NASB77)
1 “Ho! Every one who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk Without money and without cost.
2 “Why do you spend money for what is not bread, And your wages for what does not satisfy? Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, And delight yourself in abundance.
Isaiah 55:13 (NASB77)
13 “Instead of the thorn bush the cypress will come up; And instead of the nettle the myrtle will come up; And it will be a memorial to the LORD, For an everlasting sign which will not be cut off.”
Salvation was always and only is by GRACE!
Interesting statement by John MacArthur:
The prophet reveals God’s provision of salvation for all the nations. Isaiah and the other prophets did not see that Gentile salvation realized (cf. Rom. 15:8–12; Eph. 3:4–7), but they knew Messiah would effect it (Isa. 53:4–5). They wrote about a salvation grace that was far more extensive than anything they had observed (cf. Deut. 32:43; 2 Sam. 22:50; Pss. 18:49; 117:1; 118:22; Isa. 8:14; 11:1–5, 10; 28:16; 65:1–2; Jer. 17:7; Hos. 1:10; 2:23), and those prophecies contained several basic facts, some of which were later quoted by New Testament writers such as the apostle Paul (e.g., Rom. 9:25–26, 33; 10:11–13, 20; 15:8–12, 20–21).
First, the prophecies declared that Messiah would suffer. Psalm 22 describes His crucifixion, and Isaiah 53 describes other details of His suffering. Second, the Old Testament writers prophesied that Messiah would triumph. The psalmist says God will set His King, Jesus Christ, on His holy hill, where Christ will then rule with a rod of iron (Ps. 2:6–9). Psalm 16:10 says God will not allow His Holy One to undergo decay—and Christ did rise from the grave and ascend to heaven forty days later (Luke 24:1–12; Acts 1:2–9). The prophet Isaiah wrote that the government would be on Messiah’s shoulders and He would be a mighty God, reigning from the throne of David (Isa. 9:6–7). Third, the prophets foresaw a Messiah who would save. Isaiah gave the Messiah’s mandate: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners; to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord” (Isa. 61:1–2). Jesus read those words to the congregation in His hometown synagogue and proclaimed Himself the fulfillment of them (Luke 4:16–21).[4]
1 Peter 1:12 (NASB77)
12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven– things into which angels long to look.
V.12 – “things into which angels long to look.” (1Pet1V12)
“Long” – (epithymeio) to crave – with strong desire…
LN 25.12 ἐπιθυμέωa; ἐπιθυμίαa, ας f: to greatly desire to do or have something—‘to long for, to desire very much.’
“To Look” (parakypto) – to examine – to stoop to look
LN 27.39 παρακύπτωc: (a figurative extension of meaning of παρακύπτωb ‘to stoop and look into,’ 24.13) to make considerable effort in order to try to find out something—‘to try to learn, to desire to learn.’ … ‘things which (even) the angels desire to learn about’ 1 Pe 1:12.[5] (Louw-Nida uses 1 Peter 1:12 as a reference for the meaning and usage of the word (parakypto) in Greek.
The mention of angels parallels the function of the prophets. The two major figures whom Peter’s readers looked up to were the prophets and the angels. Both were intensely interested in seeing the plan of salvation unfold. The angels were interested in Peter’s readers! Peter could give no stronger encouragement of the blessings of salvation.
Called to Be Holy – Peter 1:13-25
13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you 21 who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God; 24 for
“All flesh is like grass
and all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers,
and the flower falls,
25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.”
And this word is the good news that was preached to you. [6]
V.13 – 13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
The word “therefore” ties this with the previous passage. Because the prophets had foretold the great privileges of the gospel and, with even the angels, long to understand them better, believers should show the same kind of earnest and alert concern regarding the way they live.
The believers did not need to be holy in order to be saved, but they were called to holy living in order to portray God’s nature and his grace to an unbelieving world.
The price the Lord paid for our redemption ought to result in our faithful obedience to him.
“Prepare your minds for action” -The “SENSE” of the Greek words: “mind to prepare to think hard – gird up the loins of the mind” (1Pet1v13)
Prepare is: “gird up the loins” – think of the person tucking his long robes into the belt around his waist to run.
Example: 1 Kings 18:46
Prepare your minds to think hard – Gird up the loins of the mind to prepare to think hard….. (1Pet1v13b)
“Your Mind for action” – To prepare to think hard – gird up the loins of the mind – The mind to prepare to think hard.
“Be your minds for action – “to get self-control – sober up”
Get “self-control” is the same as saying: “Be self-controlled” – “Discipline yourselves”
“set your hope fully” – To hope (expectant) – Wholly
Believers’ “hope” is not a hazy desire that we wish would come true. Instead, it is a confident expectation of what God has promised; it is our sure destination. The grace that Jesus Christ will bring to believers refers to salvation.
V.14 – As obedient children, do not be conformed (syschematizo) to the passions (epithymia) of your former ignorance (Proteros en ho agnola), (1Pet1v14)
“conformed” – to assimilate – be conformed
“passions” – evil craving
“former ignorance” (old (prior)sinful ignorance)
Quote: LABC: Believers ought not to live in the same manner that they lived before they were saved. At that time, they had lived in ignorance, giving in to their evil desires, insensitive to sin or to God’s desires. But when Christ saved them, they received a new mind–set, new goals, a new sensitivity to sin, a new desire to please God, and an altogether new way of living. The word for conform (used elsewhere only in Romans 12:2) means “to pattern one’s life or actions after.” Unbelievers pattern their lives after their desires, with no power to conquer or control them. But believers’ lives are to be radically different. Believers must not be conformed to their evil desires because they have been transformed by the renewing of their minds (Romans 12:2). The evil desires still exist, but believers have a new goal for their lives. They must break with the past and depend on the power of the Holy Spirit to help them overcome evil desires and conform themselves to God’s will.[7]
V.15 – 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy (haglos) in all your conduct, (anastrophe, G391)
(1Pet1v15)
God initiated our salvation and we are called not only to be saved, but to live to please God. God sets the standard for morality and integrity. Our focus and priorities must be his. The Holy Spirit is given to help us.
The NLT interprets it differently – however, the same Greek word is used but the NLT strengthens what the sense of the Greek word is of “moral conduct” to “in everything you do”.
NLT: But now you must be holy in everything you do, (anastrophe, G391) just as God who chose you is holy. (1Pet1V15b)
NOTE: The same Greek word ((anastrophe, G391) is used only translated: in everything you do, VS in all your conduct. The Sense for the Greek Word is “Moral Conduct”- The NLT stresses the YOU in the verse.
WHO WANTS To Be HOLY? Quote: LBAC
Holiness is a tough sale for pastors, teachers, and youth leaders to make today! Who really wants to be holy? In most people’s minds, holiness stands for moral superiority, a judgmental spirit, and nonparticipation in the world’s pleasures. How can we persuade reticent readers of 1 Peter that they should be holy?
Yes, it’s a tough sale to make … if it were merely Peter or Pastor Smith who was doing the promoting. But Christ himself told us to be holy. He said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 nrsv). So we should be holy because we love our holy Lord. If that doesn’t motivate us, we must remember that our lives will be judged. Live according to God’s standards, not the world’s.
V.16 – 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” Quotes of OT: Leviticus 11:44-45
Leviticus 11:44-45 (NASB77
44 ‘For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy; for I am holy. And you shall not make yourselves unclean with any of the swarming things that swarm on the earth.
45 ‘ For I am the LORD, who brought you up from the land of Egypt, to be your God; thus you shall be holy for I am holy.'”
“Be Holy” – Holiness may be defined as “otherness,” or distinctiveness—something separate from that which is common or ordinary (see note on Lev 6:18). “Ordinance” – Leviticus 6:18 (NASB77)
18 ‘ Every male among the sons of Aaron may eat it; it is a permanent ordinance throughout your generations, from the offerings by fire to the LORD. Whoever touches them shall become consecrated.'”
V.17 – 17 And if you call (epikaleo – G1941, to invoke) on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear (phobos – G5401 LN53.59 – a Reverence fear) throughout the time of your exile,
LN53.59 φόβοςd, ου m; δέος, ους n: profound respect and awe for deity—‘reverence, awe.’ ..‘and (the church) lived in reverence for the Lord’ Ac 9:31. ‘let us worship … with reverence and awe’ He 12:28.[8]
Key: Hebrews 12:28 – Hebrews 12:28 (NASB77)
28 Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe;
But God does not overlook sin. God judges impartially, so we must remain morally alert. We should not be spoiled children, but grateful children who love to show respect for our heavenly Father.
There is no fear like that which love begets. We do not fear God with the fear of the slave or felon, but with the fear of the love that cannot endure the thought of giving pain to the one loving and loved.
- B. Meyer[9]
V.18-19 – 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.
Compare: from the futile ways – save you from the empty life
The NLT states it a meaningful way: 18 For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value.
LABC gives a note about “Breaking family Traditions” and counsels toward what behavior on your part might work best….
BREAKING FAMILY TRADITIONS
It may be very difficult for a new Christian to go against the wishes of an unbelieving family. In Peter’s day, it would be like Jews going against their ancestors. Yet the Good News is so radically different from normal, everyday religion that every Christian family, at some point, must break from the past and start anew with God. We trade in all the world’s precious goods (and all of religion’s perks and privileges) for allegiance to Christ, who died to win our salvation.
If your family resents your allegiance to Christ, that’s normal. If your mother cries over your stubborn refusal to “stay with the family,” comfort her. If your father cuts off your allowance, gives his business to loyal siblings, or grows silent in your presence, be generous to him with talk, good cheer, and respect.
You stand at the beginning of a new family tradition. Your family may not follow Christ if you badger and preach. Instead, simply show them what a difference God makes.[10]
Question: Does all advise work? What the above stated to be the way will no doubt not hurt the situation, however, it may not be the only way. Other things might need to be done in order to awaken a family’s minds toward Christ. Recommend for us might be to continue to try things – yet bold and aggressive measures most frequently is a turn-off.
V.20- ESV – 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you
NLT: 20 God chose him as your ransom long before the world began, but now in these last days he has been revealed for your sake.
NASB: For He was foreknown before the foundation of the world,
The “HE” is Christ – Shows the plan for the earth was established before it was created… Question: With God knowing that the family would sin, then His purpose of why he went ahead with the earth is not really known to us. God did it knowing he’d have to be sacrificed for the people to be redeemed – that they would have to teach the people of who He was. That they would need to LEARN about Him and in doing so “LOVE” Him and ACCEPT his being “GOD” and the supreme God in word and deed.
It is well to remember that Christ’s sacrifice unfolded as part of God’s eternal plan.
LBC as the Question: Mixed Signals
Christ was revealed for our sake, to reassure us and to stabilize our faith. In our daily life, we constantly “check out” other people to see where we stand. We worry about how others regard us.
A wife wonders whether or not her husband still loves her, or if he loves his work or something else more. A child wonders if she is loved when her father is too busy to spend time with her. A young man wonders about his date, and the wonder escalates as dating grows serious.
Do you ever wonder about God? What does he think of you?
If so, look at the evidence: God sent his Son for you and raised his Son as sure evidence that you are loved. “Checking out” this relationship gives you every reason for hope and faith.6
V.21 ESV- who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
John 14:6 (NASB77)
6 Jesus •said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.
The power that resurrected and glorified Christ is the same power that enables us to believe. Because Christ ransomed us, we must no longer fear God or his judgment.
Instead, we set our faith and hope in him, trusting in the one who planned our salvation from eternity past.
As God raised Christ from the dead, we believe and expect that he will also raise us.
V.22 – ESV – Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love (Philadelphia), love (agapao) one another earnestly from a pure heart (kardia)…
We still have a struggle between the new nature and the old sinful nature. However, we have the gift of the Holy Spirit that helps us grow toward holiness. As the text states: “your obedience to the truth”
One truth is that we love one another. “…to the truth for a sincere brother love”.. (1Pet1v22)
“philadelphia” (brotherly love) – LN25.34 ς f: affection for one’s fellow believer in Christ—‘love for one’s fellow believer, affection for a fellow believer…. ‘there is no need to write you about affection for your fellow believers’ 1 Th 4:9; ‘keep on loving one another as fellow believers’ He 13:1.
“agapao”(to love (Christian) -LN25.43 ἀγαπάωa; ἀγάπηa, ης f: to have love for someone or something, based on sincere appreciation and high regard—‘to love, to regard with affection, loving concern, love…. ‘I give you a new commandment, that you love one another’ Jn 13:34; . ‘for he will hate the one and love the other’ Lk 16:13; . ‘the Father loves the Son’ Jn 3:35; . ‘for he loved us first’ 1 Jn 4:19.
“kardia” (Self – heart)- LN26.3 καρδίαa, ας f: (a figurative extension of meaning of καρδία ‘heart,’ not occurring in the NT in its literal sense) the causative source of a person’s psychological life in its various aspects, but with special emphasis upon thoughts—‘heart, inner self, mind.’ .. ‘you shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart’ Mt 22:37
Quote LBC:
This change was not meant to be internal only; it must be acted out in their daily behavior, attitudes, and conduct. This is one of the strongest statements of brotherly love in the New Testament, for it virtually makes brotherly love the goal of our conversion. Peter expected that growth in purity and holiness would result in deeper love among Christians. Not merely outward appearance or profession, genuine mutual love for our Christian brothers and sisters comes from the heart. In order to do this, we must willingly let go of evil thoughts and feelings toward fellow believers. Peter used the word philadelphia (love of the brothers) in the phrase “genuine mutual love,” and then changed to the more intense form of the word love, agapao, to describe strong and deep love in the next phrase, love one another deeply. The Greek word for “deeply” is an athletic term meaning “with every muscle straining.” Despite our differences and disagreements, we can have genuine affection for one another, and as we grow in holiness, we can learn to love one another deeply because of the Holy Spirit within us.
Such love is not possible in the world at large, for it doesn’t understand the love that results when people’s sins are forgiven and their souls are purified. This experience brings together even very different believers on the common ground of forgiveness in Christ and requires them to love one another as Christ loved them. Peter no doubt remembered Jesus’ words to him and the other disciples at their last supper together: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34–35 nkjv).[11]
V.23 – ESV – since you have been born again, not of perishable (phathartos) seed but of imperishable (apthartos) , through the living and abiding word (meno – logos) of God…
Contrasts temporary earthly life with eternal life. The new birth is completely distinct from human birth and life; it involves supernatural birth and is secure because God handles the process.
We are sinners saved by grace! Our new birth was not of perishable seed (phathartos) that would one day wither and die, but rather the new birth was from ‘imperishable (aphthartos) seed’ from the living and true God. It is by the WORD (logos) of God and being in that WORD. (1Pet1v23)
(If you so wish to study the word “Logos” more, there are four articles on the word “LOGOS”. The 1st one’s link is: http://fbmen.info/word-logos-rhema/ )
V.24-25 – ESV – 24 for “All flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of grass. The grass withers,
and the flower falls, 25 but the word of the Lord remains forever.”
And this word is the good news that was preached to you. [12]
Quoting Isa. 40:6-8
Isaiah 40:6-8 (NASB77)
6 A voice says, “Call out.” Then he answered, “What shall I call out?” All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field.
7 The grass withers, the flower fades, When the breath of the LORD blows upon it; Surely the people are grass.
8 The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.
Possessions, accomplishments, and people will eventually fade away, but Gods Word will never fail.
The impartial power of God (Quote by Oswald Chambers)
For by one offering He hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Hebrews 10:14.
We trample the blood of the Son of God under foot if we think we are forgiven because we are sorry for our sins. The only explanation of the forgiveness of God and of the unfathomable depth of His forgetting, is the Death of Jesus Christ. Our repentance is merely the outcome of our personal realization of the Atonement which He has worked out for us. “Christ Jesus … is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” When we realize that Christ is made all this to us, the boundless joy of God begins; wherever the joy of God is not present, the death sentence is at work.
It does not matter who or what we are, there is absolute reinstatement into God by the death of Jesus Christ and by no other way, not because Jesus Christ pleads, but because He died. It is not earned, but accepted. All the pleading which deliberately refuses to recognize the Cross is of no avail; it is battering at another door than the one which Jesus has opened. ‘I don’t want to come that way, it is too humiliating to be received as a sinner.’ “There is none other Name …” The apparent heartlessness of God is the expression of His real heart, there is boundless entrance in His way. “We have forgiveness through His blood.” Identification with the death of Jesus Christ means identification with Him to the death of everything that never was in Him.
God is justified in saving bad men only as He makes them good. Our Lord does not pretend we are all right when we are all wrong. The Atonement is a propitiation whereby God through the death of Jesus makes an unholy man holy.[13]
[1] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 27). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[2] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (pp. 30–31). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[3] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 34). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[4] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (2004). 1 Peter (p. 53). Chicago: Moody Publishers.
[5] Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 330). New York: United Bible Societies.
[6] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (1 Pe 1:13–25). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
[7] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 40). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[8] Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 540). New York: United Bible Societies.
[9] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 43). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[10] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 44). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[11] Barton, B. B. (1995). 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude (p. 46). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Pub.
[12] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (1 Pe 1:24–25). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.
[13] Chambers, O. (1986). My utmost for his highest: Selections for the year. Grand Rapids, MI: Oswald Chambers Publications; Marshall Pickering.