Chapter 1
-Peter is writing to those dispersed in the various Mediterranean
regions as he addresses them with multiplied grace and peace during their time
of struggle and persecution (1Peter 1:1-2). He discusses the foreknowledge of
God from the beginning to assure them that the Sovereign has His plan for a
living hope to: 1) sanctify, 2) produce obedience, and 3) cleanse with His
blood (1 Peter 1:2-3). This hope is produced by the resurrection of Jesus
Christ from the dead, and He alone ensures an inheritance that is imperishable,
undefiled, and unfading (1 Peter 1:3-5). His power guards us through faith for
an awesome salvation in the last time, which gives everyone who trusts in Him
reason for rejoicing even though for a temporary time, in the now, there will
be necessary grief caused by various trials (1 Peter 1:5-6). These tests reveal
the genuineness (or proof) of one’s faith. Faith is defined as being more
precious than gold that perishes, although it is tested by fire, it will result
in the believer salvation, honor, and glory in praise at the revelation of
Jesus Christ when He comes (1 Peter 1:7-9). *Application* This section echoes
James’ initial plea in the book before in the Cannon of Scripture. We will
inevitably face trials and tribulations, and we are to count all of these times
of testing with complete joy and endurance (James 1:2-4). Without Christ we are
nothing and most to be pitied in this life, but with Him we are everything for
His eternal Kingdom (1 Corinthians 15:19-20)!
-Salvation continues to be a dominant theme now as the
chapter progresses. The prophets made careful inquiry into this matter being diligent
to search out every intricate detail of Christ’s passion (suffering) and the
subsequent glories. It was their service to these ancient believers and now to
us in modern times (1 Peter 1:10-12). *Application* We miss much if we do not
go through the Old Testament with a fine tooth comb of study and observation.
The message of Christ is revealed from the earliest of times and is exciting to
ponder. The Lord had His plans for mankind’s salvation all along!
-A preparation for ACTION is encouraged along with being
sober-minded as we set our hope fully on God’s grace revealed in Jesus Christ
(1 Peter 1:13). As obedient children we are not to be conformed to the passions
of our former ignorance because He who called us is holy; therefore, we are to
be holy in imitating Him (1 Peter 1:14-16). Because we have been purchased by
Christ’s blood in His impartial perfection known from the foundation of the
world, we are instructed to conduct ourselves with fear (reverence, awe)
throughout the time of our exile on this earth (1 Peter 1:17-20). Our faith and
hope is in God (1 Peter 1:21). This initiates love in our obedience to the
truth from a pure heart as we are “born again” of imperishable seed through the
living and abiding Word of God (1 Peter 1:3, 22-23). The Word of the Lord that
remains forever is the good news that is preached to us (1 Peter 1:25)!
*Application* We can take comfort in these words and apply them to our fullness
of joy in the great anticipation of our redemption in Christ Jesus. While there
may be intense times of suffering and trial in this life, our eyes are continually
focused on the future God has for us in His grace, mercy, and love. The Lord is
our joy set before us (Hebrews 12:2)!
Verses to Memorize: 1
Peter 1:6-7
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