Ray Skilton

Sunday, 9 October 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 6: 2 Peter 1

Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

Confirm Your Calling and Election

In verses 3 and 4 below Peter reveals a wealth of benefits we receive when we are born-again that are not obvious to most of us at first glance. Let’s examine these two verses separately and uncover these wonderful things God bestows upon us because we become His elect – His chosen ones – His Royal Priesthood! God has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light!

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence,

Now, looking at verse 3 above, it is a short verse that packs a mighty punch when we examine it closely!

God’s divine power has been freely given to us, through our Lord Jesus Christ, to ensure that we have everything that we need to live our lives in a godly way! God’s divine power is embedded within us by the infilling of the Holy Spirit. All we have to do is believe and receive and the Holy Spirit will lead us in all truth! Jesus reveals to us everything we need to know through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit reminds us of what God’s Word says and also brings personal and corporate revelation of His Word to His Church through the Holy Spirit – The Spirit and the Word come together – the logos (written Word) becomes rhema (revealed Word) by the power of the Holy Spirit!

John 14:26 (NIV)

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

John 16:12-15 (NIV)

12 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. 13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. 14 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. 15 All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”

Acts 1:8 (NIV)

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.

It is through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour that we receive all of God’s very great and precious promises (verse 4 above) the greatest of which is our salvation in His name and the forgiveness of our sins.

The promises of God to us are many and varied! There are so many that they are practically uncountable but there two things I know about them for sure, they are all for our benefit and yes, they are ours because they have all been filled (God’s promises) in Christ Jesus! We are God’s anointed ones, His Holy Spirit seals us and we belong to Jesus, His Spirit is in our hearts which guarantees our future hope of salvation and glory in heaven!

2 Corinthians 1:18-22 (NIV)

18 But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silas and Timothy—was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” 20 For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 21 Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, 22 set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

For these reasons we are God’s sons and daughters and inherit all things along with Christ and we become partakers in His divine nature because the blood of Jesus covers our sin. What an awesome privilege! What a mighty God we serve!

5 For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, 6 and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, 7 and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.

In verses 5 – 9 above, Peter tells us that because of our faith in God through Christ Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit, we, as individuals need to supplement or add to our faith with other Characteristics of God that are available to us as we are enabled and filled by the Holy Spirit and in this way, we bring glory to God through Christ Jesus!

Let’s examine these Godly characteristics that Peter reveals to us one by one in verses 5-7 by using the original Greek translations.

Virtue (Greek ‘areté’ – Strong’s 703) – moral goodness, graciousness, uprightness, moral excellence, acts that not only enrich one’s own life but the lives of others as well both mentally and physically.

Knowledge (Greek ‘gnósis’ – Strong’s 1108) – a spiritual knowledge gained from the Bible, knowledge of the Bible applied to action in obedience.

Self-control – a facet of the fruit of the Spirit (Greek ‘egkrateia’ – Strong’s 1466) – self-mastery, self-restraint, all in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Steadfastness – (Greek ‘huponomé’ – Strong’s 5281) – a patient endurance, not giving up, the sole reliance on God for all things.

Godliness – (Greek ‘eusebeia’ – Strong’s 2150) – devotion to God, reverent fear of God, an unswerving dedication to the things of God.

Brotherly affection – (Greek ‘philadelphia’ - Strong’s 5360) – brotherly love, the love for Christian brothers and sisters for each other, love for fellow believers, kindness towards each other.

In verses 5 – 8, Peter tells us that if we embrace these Godly qualities and make them our own, make them part of our character so that they increase in us, they will ensure that we become effective and fruitful Christians. We will show ourselves as true disciples of Christ. In this way we will bring glory to the Father.

John 15:8 (NLT)

When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.

What fruit should we be producing? The fruit of the Spirit! As born again Christians we live by the Spirit in Christ Jesus – therefore let us keep ourselves in step with the Holy Spirit at all times!

Galatians 5:22-26 (NIV)

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 11 For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Verses 10 and 11 above bring such strength and comfort to each one of us. Peter tells us to be ‘more diligent’ to confirm our calling and election. Diligent comes from the Greek word ‘spoudadzó’ (Strong’s 4704) and its expanded meaning is, be quick, eager and zealous to be diligent, fully applying ourselves to diligence and being quick to accomplish our calling and election in Christ Jesus! In this way our entrance into eternal life in the Kingdom of our Lord will be richly provided for. We will lack nothing in achieving this!

12 Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. 13 I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, 14 since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. 15 And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.

In verses 12 – 15 above Peter tells the Church of the time that he will continue to remind them of these qualities at every opportunity as he knows that he is soon going to be put to death by Nero. This was revealed to him by the Lord. So, he will remind them regularly while he is alive so that they do not forget. In though Peter was facing an horrific death, his only thought were for his flock just as Christ’s was.

Rumour has it that Peter was crucified upside down on the cross as he didn’t consider himself to be worthy to die in exactly the same way Jesus did!

Today, Church, let us take a leaf out of Peter’s book and do as he did, let us keep on reminding each other of these Godly qualities that are essential for us to clothe ourselves in at all times! Never taking them off! Let us always put the needs of others before our own!

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Christ's Glory and the Prophetic Word

16 For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” 18 we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. 19 And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, 20 knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. 21 For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

In the above six verses (16 – 21), Peter closes this chapter by reminding the Church that he and the other Apostles were eyewitnesses to the coming of Christ in his full power and majesty. They witnessed every miracle and supernatural thing that he did and spoke! The ministry of Christ was not something that they had made up it was real and was witnessed by many others too!

They had actually heard God’s voice telling them that Jesus was His son for they were with him on the mountain at the time and witnessed His transfiguration, His radiance and glory shinning in His true magnificence and power!

Matthew 17:1-3 (AMP)

Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John the brother of James, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. 2 And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light. 3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.

From verse 19 Peter goes on to tell us that the prophetic writings about the coming of Jesus were confirmed to them in full by their being eyewitnesses of His presence, His actions, His life, His death and His resurrection! Peter urges the Church, including us today, to pay attention to these facts – the fulfilling of the prophecy of the coming Messiah!

The promise for us from this is that we too will witness him in His true glory as they did on the mountain at His transfiguration. His glory will light the New Heavens and the New Earth, and we will be there! Come, Lord Jesus! Come!

Revelation 21:23 (AMP)

And the city has no need of the sun nor of the moon to give light to it, for the glory (splendor, radiance) of God has illumined it, and the Lamb is its lamp and light.

Peter goes on to reassure us that no Bible prophecy was written by man but by God through the Holy Spirit working in man to bring glory to Jesus! Amen!

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me and enable me to clothe myself in your Godly characteristics that my faith may grow and ever increase, and that my life will bring glory to Jesus and will help others to achieve their calling and election in Christ Jesus. Thank you, Lord that you have given us everything we need to live Godly lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. I pray, Lord that you will continually fill me with your Holy Spirit now and always. Amen!

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Monday, 3 October 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 5: 1 Peter 5

Elders, Shepherd the Flock of God!

How to shepherd the flock!

1 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

In verses 1-4 above Peter is teaching the Elders of the local congregation how to shepherd the flock and what their motives should be in doing this. He reminds us that he himself was an eyewitness to the sufferings of Christ who is the Chief Shepherd. In other words he obtained his example from the Lord Himself!

Peter's teachings and indeed the teachings of the entire Bible are still very relevant for us today and should be modelled in every New Testament Church.

Jesus is the Word and is the same yesterday, today and for ever!

John 1:14 (NIV)

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

The inference here is to remind Elders (both yesterday's and today's) that they should be prepared to suffer in a like manner to Christ. In this way Elders, just like Peter himself, will be partakers of Christ’s glory that will be revealed at the end of the age. Christ in you the hope of glory!

Colossians 1:27 (AMP)

God [in His eternal plan] chose to make known to them how great for the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in and among you, the hope and guarantee of [realizing the] glory.

Peter, in verses 2 – 3, goes on to tell us just how Elders are to shepherd the flock. To get a better idea of how elders are to function, let’s break down these two verses from their original Greek translation examining each descriptor thoroughly.

“exercising oversight”

Comes from the Greek word ‘episkopeó’ (Strong’s 1983, pronounced ep-ee-skop-eh-o) and its full meaning is to properly, focus on, look at with genuine caring interest. The prefix (epi) implies "looking with fitting, apt concern," a looking after that requires action and genuine caring concern for the congregation which is born out of the agapé love of God just as our Lord’s is!

“not under compulsion”
Comes from the Greek word ‘anagkastós’ (Strong’s 317, pronounced an-ang-kas-toce) and its full meaning is by way of compulsion (a compulsory obligation to), to do unwillingly, to do by force, to do out of a feeling of necessity and obligation.

“but willingly” as God would have you to
Comes from the Greek word ‘hekousiós’ (Strong’s 1596, pronounced hek-oo-see-ose) and its full meaning is, to fully commit to something willingly, to do voluntarily, to do of one's own accord, spontaneously – out of love for others as God would have you do.

“not for shameful gain”
Comes from the Greek word ‘aischrokerdós’ (Strong’s 147, pronounced ahee-skhrok-er-doce) and its full meaning is, to do something from selfish, eagerness for base gain from others, for filthy lucre (unfair monetary self-gain), out of greed for self-importance or position.

Here, let’s just pause a moment to see what we have in today’s modern Church: millionaire prosperity preachers living in lavish and luxurious homes, so called dream interpreters who charge you and sell you cards to interpret your dreams, Churches that turn themselves in to money making business machines through their music etc, preachers who pray for you if you send them money and many more such shameful blasphemies!

“but eagerly”
Comes from the Greek word ‘prothumós’ (Strong’s 4290, pronounced proth-oo-moce) and its expanded meaning is, readily, eagerly, with a ready mind, cheerfully, with passionate willingness.

“not domineering over”
From the Greek word ‘katakurieuó’ (Strong’s 2634b, pronounced kat-ah-ko-ree-yoo'-o) and its full meaning is, to look down on as superior to, to be lord of, rule over, have authority over, have dominion over.

“but being (good) examples”
Here the Greek word for ‘being examples’ is ‘tupos’ (Strong’s 5179b) and means the mark left by a stamp or a die after a heavy blow. In other words, it refers to the example of an Elder as being a permanent and exact replica of the original shape. And the example that an elder should be to the flock as an original shape is that of Jesus.

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

An elder must set an example of true Godly living before the congregation! No pressure there!

James 3:1 (NIV)

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

In verse 5 Peter tells the eldership that when they serve the congregation faithfully in this way, they will receive the crown of everlasting glory when the Lord Jesus returns!

How the congregation should submit to the Eldership.

5 (a)Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. (b)Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

In verse 5a the congregation is told to ‘be subject to the elders’ and here the word ‘subject’ comes from the Greek word ‘hupotassó’ and means to arrange yourself under their covering for spiritual guidance and protection, for your own spiritual safety. That is of course if the Eldership are setting the good example to the congregation as mentioned above!

And in verse 5b Peter makes a statement to the entire congregation, including the eldership, to clothe ourselves with humility towards one another because God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble!

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

When we look at verses 6 – 11 above we can see that what Peter tells us is not beyond our understanding, they way the Church should conduct itself is written quite plainly and clearly!

• Be humble before God and He will lift you up!

• Give all your worries to Him because He cares for you!

• Be sober-minded – be cool, calm and collected and not under the intoxicating influence of sin! This way you will easily recognise the works of evil!

• Resist the devil and he will flee – rebuke him with scripture as Jesus did, “it is written….!”

• Remember that you re not alone in your suffering – the entire Church suffers in the same way!

• God will restore us by His amazing grace!

• Always give glory, honour and praise to God in all circumstances!

Final Greetings – Peter assures us that what he has written is the true grace of God!

12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 She who is at Babylon (Note from Ray: I suspect that Babylon here is a spiritual reference to Rome where Peter wrote his letters and where the Christians were under horrific persecution from the Roman emperor Nero, much like the Old Testament persecution of the Jews by Babylon), who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of love.
Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me to endure life’s sufferings. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus as I go through the trials and tribulations of life and help me to do the good things that you have predestined me to do, that I may bring glory to your name. Heavenly Father, I entrust my life to you – please teach me true humility and help me to submit to the Eldership you have placed over me! Lord, let your will be done, not mine! Amen.

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Sunday, 25 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 4: 1 Peter 4

Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature God,

did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;

7 rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!

This way of thinking involves us dying to our flesh (our sinful desires), living in the Spirit, taking on the attitude of a servant to all and thus living to do the will of God only, just as Jesus did!

We have the Lord’s perfect example of this in Matthew 26:39 which is repeated in Mark 14:36 and Luke 22:42 when in the Garden of Gethsemane our Lord asks Father God if it is possible for him not to have to die for mankind! The Apostle John also speaks of Jesus doing the will of the Father in John 6:38.

Matthew 26:39 (NLT)

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”

Jesus the man, struggling with the flesh and overcoming by the power of the Holy Spirit – in Christ we have the victory!

John 6:38 (NLT)

For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will.

Jesus, explaining why He came down to earth from heaven!

Looking at 1 Peter 4:1 in more depth we see that Peter tells us to “arm yourselves with the same way of thinking” as Christ. The key word in this phrase is ‘arm’. Here the Greek word for ‘arm’ is ‘hoplizó’ (hop-lid-zo – Strong’s 3695) and its full meaning besides to ‘arm’ is: to make ready or to equip oneself in a military way and be ready for battle.

Now we read that Jesus armed Himself for battle in His way of thinking, but what is the battle we need to be ready for?

It is of course, as Peter goes on to tell us in verse 2, the battle we have with our flesh, our human passions, our sinful nature! The battle of the mind where the devil’s voice is heard the loudest!

“arm yourselves with the same way of ……………..thinking……as Christ!”

Jesus was human in every way so that He could identify with us in every way, even in our struggles and battles!

Hebrews 2:17-18 (NIV)

17 For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

To read more about the battle of the mind please read my article ‘Satan Wants Your Mind’, published on 23 January 2021, here’s the link:
https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2021/01/satan-wants-your-mind.html

When we become born again, not only do we receive eternal life in Christ Jesus, but we also become His soldiers – the army of God with Jesus as our captain!

2 Timothy 2:3 (ESV)

Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

Our battle is a spiritual battle, and we must clothe ourselves appropriately and arm ourselves with the correct spiritual weapons: prayer, the name of Jesus, humility, life in the Spirit, the authority given to us by Christ, cultivate an ever repentant and forgiving heart, be slow to anger and swift to bless, put on the full armour of God, be obedient to the Word and most importantly DO EVERYTHING IN LOVE!

"BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND THE STRENGTH OF HIS MIGHT"

Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,

To find out more about a Christian’s weapons of war, please read my blog published in November 2020, “Spiritual Warfare: What are a Christians weapons of war?”
https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2020/11/spiritual-warfare-part-4-what-are.html

3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

In verse 3 Peter tells us that once we are born-again our past lives are over, and we are no longer to live as the Gentiles do. For us today this means that we are no longer to live in the desires of the flesh as the unsaved do, but we are to live in the Spirit as Christ did. We are to resist the temptations of the flesh, the pull of the world, for in Christ Jesus we are new creations!

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

And when we don’t conform to the pattern of the world, Peter warns as that we will be much maligned – they (unbelievers) will criticise and abuse us and make fun of us!

Submit to God resist the devil and he will flee!

James 4:7 (NIV)

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Peter goes on to say in verse 5 that we are to ignore this maligning as the maligners will have to give an account to God for their lives and unlike the saved who were once like them, we will have an advocate who will speak for us on judgement day – our Lord and Saviour, Christ Jesus who paid the price for our sins. And because of this we are able to stand before God guiltless and forgiven!

1 John 1:2-3 (AMP)

My little children (believers, dear ones), I am writing you these things so that you will not sin and violate God’s law. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate [who will intercede for us] with the Father: Jesus Christ the righteous [the upright, the just One, who conforms to the Father’s will in every way—purpose, thought, and action]. 2 And He [that same Jesus] is the propitiation for our sins [the atoning sacrifice that holds back the wrath of God that would otherwise be directed at us because of our sinful nature—our worldliness, our lifestyle]; and not for ours alone, but also for [the sins of all believers throughout] the whole world.

The end of all things is near!

7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

In verses 7-11 Peter tells us the end times are close at hand and so we must stay calm, clear headed and focused on the things of God so that our prayers will be according to His will.

We must love each other sincerely and be quick to forgive others. He also reminds us to use the gifts that God has given us for the benefit of the body of Christ so that everything we do, will glorify God through Jesus!

Eagerly desire the Spiritual gifts and use them for the benefit of the Church, to build up and edify each other in order to bring glory to Jesus.

1 Corinthians 12:31 (AMP)

But earnestly desire and strive for the greater gifts [if acquiring them is going to be your goal].

And yet I will show you a still more excellent way [one of the choicest graces and the highest of them all: unselfish love].

Suffering as a Christian

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And

“If the righteous is scarcely saved,

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

19 Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

In verses 12 – 19 above Peter once again reverts to what seems to be one of his favourite topics, and rightly so, the Christian walk and its trials and tribulations. We are told not to be surprised when trials come to test us – it is not a strange or rare thing to the Christian walk, it is normal. He tells us to rejoice in the fact that we share in Christ’s sufferings!

James, the younger brother of Jesus, puts it this way:

James 1:2-4 (AMP)

2 Consider it nothing but joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials. 3 Be assured that the testing of your faith [through experience] produces endurance [leading to spiritual maturity, and inner peace]. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfect and completely developed [in your faith], lacking in nothing.

Our trials and temptations, the testing ground of our faith, produces endurance and leads us on the path to spiritual maturity! Endurance and good works in Christ Jesus, produces the perfect result in our faith so that we will lack for nothing! Eternal life in Christ Jesus! Amen!

Write these words of Jesus indelibly on your hearts and let them always be with you. In Christ alone we wear the victor’s crown and have His perfect peace! Jesus is the prince of peace; He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords. In Him we live and move and have our being and when God is for us no one and nothing can be against us – the Bible declares this so!

John 16:33 (AMP)

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]

Peter continues in telling us from verse 14 that if we suffer for Christ’s sake we are blessed because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon us! He assures as that we will not suffer as those that are evil do, as we receive the fulness of God’s love in eternal life in Christ Jesus whose name we glorify when we suffer for him!

In verse 17 Peter tells us that God’s judgement starts with the Church and if it starts with us then how much worse will it be for those that do not know Jesus! The true Church receives eternal life in Heaven – unbelievers receive eternal death (separation from God) in Hell!

Matthew 25:46 (AMP)

Then these [unbelieving people] will go away into eternal (unending) punishment, but those who are righteous and in right standing with God [will go, by His remarkable grace] into eternal (unending) life.”

And finally, in verse 19, Peter reminds us to entrust our lives to God while doing good even as we endure suffering for His name and in accordance with His will!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me to endure life’s sufferings and to keep my eyes on you for you are the author and perfecter of my faith. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus as I go through the trials and tribulations of life and help me to do the good things that you have predestined me to do, that I may bring glory to your name. Heavenly Father, I entrust my life to you! Lord, let your will be done, not mine! Amen.

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Monday, 19 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 3: 1 Peter 3

Background to the Books of 1 & 2 Peter

The historical indications are that these two books of the Bible were written when the Apostle Peter was in Rome. Peter was writing to the Church, both Jew and Gentile converts that had been scattered through Asia through persecution. Paul was writing to those that were exiled in what today is known as Northwest Turkey.

Both letters are written in a very warm, loving and caring way – a Pastor taking care of his congregation.

Believing the Bible and putting it into practice – allowing it to change us.

1 Peter chapter 3 - ESV (the verses from 1 Peter 3 are in light italics, the explanation of the verse/s follows in light, straight text with additional scriptures from other Bible books in bold italics)

Godly Living:

Wives and Husbands

In the first seven verses of this chapter Peter addresses the relationship between wives and husbands. He first speaks to wives and then to husbands.

1 Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, 2 when they see your respectful and pure conduct.

In these first two verses Peter tells wives to submit themselves to their husbands whether they are believers or not. He goes on to say that if wives do this, they (their husbands) ‘may’ be won to the Lord by their (wives) behaviour. Note that Peter says ‘may’ and not ‘will’, there is a good chance that they will be won to the Lord but there is no guarantee!

3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewellery, or the clothing you wear— 4 but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.

In verses 3 and 4 we are told that a wife’s beauty should not stem from her outward appearance, but her beauty should come from the condition of her heart, a heart that is totally sold out to Jesus in obedience to the Word! This submersion in Jesus and the Word produces an imperishable beauty and a soft, gentle spirit; it will not age as the flesh does – it is a spiritual beauty born of the Holy Spirit; and which is precious in God’s eyes! This kind of gentle spirit is not only precious to God but is ‘very’ precious, it touches God’s heart in a very special way.

And let my say here too, husbands (myself included) we should endeavour to be like this too if we love our wives as Christ loves the Church!

Proverbs 31:10-12

10 A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.

11 Her husband has full confidence in her

and lacks nothing of value.

12 She brings him good, not harm,

all the days of her life.

5 For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Verses 5 and 6 tell us that when wives are adorned in this way, they are following in the footsteps of the holy women of old whose hope was in God alone. This is how Sarah was with Abraham and Christian wives are likened to her as her children.

I believe that verse six is far better explained by the Amplified Bible:

1 Peter 3:6 (AMP)

just as Sarah obeyed Abraham [following him and having regard for him as head of their house], calling him lord. And you have become her daughters if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear [that is, being respectful toward your husband but not giving in to intimidation, nor allowing yourself to be led into sin, nor to be harmed].

The Amplified Bible translation gives a perfect explanation of what ‘and do not fear anything that is frightening’ really means. Wives should not live in fear of their husbands and be intimidated by them and let themselves be led into sin by him or to be physically or mentally harmed by him in any form of abuse.

Husbands

7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Here again the Amplified Bible translation of 1 Peter 3:7 gives the best explanation of how a husband should treat his wife. Husbands your wife is a co-heir with you in Jesus in everything God has for your marriage! When you love your wife in this way, your prayers will not be hindered or ineffective!

1 Peter 3:7 (AMP)

In the same way, you husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way [with great gentleness and tact, and with an intelligent regard for the marriage relationship], as with someone physically weaker, since she is a woman. Show her honor and respect as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered or ineffective.

And in the verse below from Ephesians, Paul also gives a very similar command to that of Peter of how husbands are to love their wives.

Ephesians 5:25 (AMP)

Husbands, love your wives [seek the highest good for her and surround her with a caring, unselfish love], just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her,

God made Eve from the rib of man so that she is always close to his heart, he did not make her from the bone of the foot so that she can be trampled on! Husbands love your wives as Christ loves the Church! Treat her with great respect, she is precious to you and the family. She, in Christ Jesus, is the glue that holds the family together - the wife of noble character! She was given to you by God - do not disrespect anything that God gives you!

Living in unity

8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

In verse 8 Peter commands us, the Church, to have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, and to wear a tender heart and humility as our Christian make-up and character. When we live in unity like this; when we have the same mindset as Christ and are thus in the unity of the Spirit; God blesses us!

Psalm 133:1 (NIV)

How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity!

Philippians 2:5-9 (NIV)

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,

Christian living

9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. 10 For
“Whoever desires to love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil
and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

From verses 9 – 12 Peter is telling us how we should be living and acting towards our brothers and sisters in Christ and to others if we are to call ourselves Christians.

We are not to repay evil for evil – we are called to bless instead and when we do this God will bless us.

We are to keep our tongues from evil and lying.

We are to turn from evil and do good.

We are to seek peace and pursue it.

We reap what we sow!

Galatians 6:9-7 (NIV)

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Suffering for Righteousness' Sake

In verses 13-14 below Peter reiterates what he says in 1 Peter 2:19 about suffering for righteousness. It is commendable before God and when we do suffer in this way we will be blessed! We all need to be consciously active in doing what is good without holding back because of the fear of man. For what can mortal man do to us?

Hebrews 13:6 (NIV)

So we say with confidence,
“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
What can mere mortals do to me?”[Ps 118:6,7]

13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

Honour Jesus as holy
In verses 15-17 below Peter tells us to honour Jesus as holy from the heart. It is only through Jesus that we are made holy!

But, what is holiness? We are told in the Book of Hebrews that without holiness we won’t see God!

15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, 16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.

Holiness is from the Greek word ‘hagiotes’ meaning holiness or sanctity – holiness is God’s sanctification work in us once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour, in other words once we are born again.

Sanctification is a process that we go through on our walk to Christian maturity, and it is achieved by being obedient to His Word and by being led by His Holy Spirit – living life in the Spirit (Romans 8). Hagiotes is derived from the Greek adjective ‘hagios’ which means set apart (for God) for the specific purpose of being holy and sacred.

From this we can safely conclude that God expects us, as Christians, to set ourselves apart to be holy because He is holy. In fact, Hebrews 12:14 states quite emphatically that we won’t see the Lord unless we pursue holiness.

Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.

Peter also tells us that we must always be prepared to defend the hope we have in Christ Jesus but to do it with gentleness and respect as when we do this it will silence the tongues of those who would revile and slander us for our belief in Jesus and it is they who will be put to shame!

No Bible bashing please!

Sometimes it is God’s will for us to suffer for doing good, after all Jesus did!

18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 20 because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water.

Water baptism symbolises a Christian’s appeal to God for a good conscience thorough the resurrection of Jesus our Lord and Saviour!

21 Baptism, which corresponds to this (verse 20), now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

The apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 4 warns us that if we don’t develop a good conscience our faith will become shipwrecked and non-existent!

1 Timothy 1:19 (NIV)

holding on to faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and so have suffered shipwreck with regard to the faith.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me to endure life’s sufferings and to keep my eyes on you for you are the author and perfecter of my faith. Help me Lord to develop holiness as you are holy. Help Lord, to study and apply the teachings of your Word to my life and to always be led by the Holy Spirit that I may glorify your name. Amen.

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Monday, 12 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 2: 1 Peter 2

We are living stones and a holy people!

Background to the Books of 1 & 2 Peter

The historical indications are that these two books of the Bible were written when the Apostle Peter was in Rome. Peter was writing to the Church, both Jew and Gentile converts that had been scattered through Asia through persecution. Paul was writing to those that were exiled in what today is known as Northwest Turkey.

Both letters are written in a very warm, loving and caring way.

Believing the Bible and putting it into practice – allowing it to change us.

1 Peter chapter 2 - ESV (the verses from 1 Peter 2 are in light italics, the explanation of the verse/s follows in light, straight text with additional scriptures from other Bible books in bold italics)

Christian behaviour

1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

In verses 1 - 3 above Peter goes straight into telling us all the bad things we need to stop doing and saying in order to lead a loving, biblically correct life! These are things that we ll do or have done!

He tells us to put away all:

Malice: The Greek word for malice is ‘kakia’ (kak-ee-ah, Strong’s 2549) and its expanded meaning besides malice is, wickedness, spite, evil, viciousness and spite. This requires positive action to change on our part. It’s not what happens to you but how you respond to it that tests your mettle as a Christian!

Deceit: Greek word is ‘dolos’ (dol-os, Strong’s 1388) and it’s full meaning besides deceit is, treachery, to bait (somebody), trickery, guile and exploitation.

Hypocrisy: The Greek word is ‘hupokrisis’ (hoop-ok-ree-sis, Strong’s 5272) and the full meaning is, not practicing what you preach, expecting others to do what you will not, pretending to be something you are not, wearing a mask to cover up how you really feel, living a life of pretense.

Envy: The Greek word is ‘phthonos’ (fthon-os, Strong’s 5355) and its expanded meaning is, strong jealousy, spite, begrudging, displeasure when things go well for others, ill will towards others and bitter minded towards others.

Slander: The Greek word is ‘katalalia’ (kat-al-al-ee-ah, Strong’s 2636) and its expanded meaning is, evil-speaking, backbiting and defaming talk about others.

We need to watch how we talk to others and not to talk about each in a way that breaks down and doesn’t build up. Guard the tongue at all times or it will set you on fire!

James 3:6 (NIV)

The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

We need to respond to all life's troubles events as Jesus would - in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Paul gives us a great reminder of this and tells us how it is done!

Romans 8:18 (NIV)

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

Galatians 5:19-26 (NIV)

19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Jesus, a living stone

4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, 5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

In verses 4 and 5 five Peter tells us that as Jesus is a living stone and God’s chosen one so we, His Church, are living stones too, that when built upon by Jesus becomes a spiritual ‘house’. We become a holy priesthood and that as we offer ourselves to Jesus and He becomes our Lord and Saviour, we become acceptable to God. It is through Jesus and Him alone that we are able to enter God’s presence to present ourselves to Him as a living sacrifice of worship!

Romans 12:1 (NLT)

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.

6 For it stands in Scripture:

“Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone,
a cornerstone chosen and precious,
and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe,

“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,”

8 and

“A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense.”

They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

In verses 6, 7 and 8 Peter quotes from three Old Testament scriptures. Verse 6 is from Isaiah 28:16, verse 7 is from Psalm 118:22 and verse 8 is from Isaiah 8:14.

In each of these verses the word ‘stone’ is used, and this word ‘stone’ is talking about Jesus the living stone upon which the New Testament Church is going to be built!

Verse 6 tells us that this stone is the cornerstone (Isaiah 28:16) that will hold the Church together. In modern building techniques the cornerstone is the stone upon which all the other bricks are alligned in order to make a solid and lasting building. Isaiah also describes this stone (Jesus) as chosen and precious just as Peter does in verse 4 of our text!

And to this very day this stone, Jesus, is still a stumbling block to mankind because of their unbelief. In today’s world, just as when Jesus walked the earth, people do not believe in Him or the Bible.

When we have Jesus we will never be shaken - He is a sure foundation, the cornerstone of the Church!

Today, even many who call themselves Christians are very selective in their belief, they do not believe all the Bible or consider it just allegorical or only believe what suits them. These people are not truly born again they are not true Christians!

Psalm 62:1-2 (NLT)

1 I wait quietly before God,
for my victory comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will never be shaken.

9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

In verse 9 and 10 we, the true Church of Jesus Christ, are assured of these things:

We are a chosen race – new creations

We are a royal priesthood

We are a holy nation – the Kingdom of God

We belong to God alone

We are called out of darkness into His light so thay we can proclaim His excellence

Once we were nothing, but now we are God’s people

Once we received no mercy – now we receive mercy

11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.

In verse 11 Peter urges us as foreigners in this world, we are in the world but not of the world, to stop indulging in the things of the flesh, the sinful passions of the flesh that lead our souls astray!

John 17:14-16 (NIV)

14 I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. 15 My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.

12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

In verse 12 Peter commands us, as we live in a fallen world, to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of Jesus so that unbelievers will see His goodness in us which will bring glory to God!

Philippians 1:27-28 (NIV)

27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel 28 without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God.

Submission to Authority

13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

In verses 13 – 17 Peter tells us to submit ourselves to all ruling authorities for it is the will of God, and to continue to do good in Christ Jesus so that the ignorance of the unbeliever, those that watch us and point fingers at us, will be silenced!

We are told to live as people who have freedom in Christ Jesus but to ensure that we do not use our freedom to cover up evil – no sin can be hidden from God! We are to live as true servants of God, obeying His Word and being led by the Holy Spirit so that we bring glory to Jesus! We are to honour everyone, love our brothers and sisters in Christ and fear God.

Be respectful to everyone

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.

In verses 18 and 19 Peter again urges us to be submissive to those in authority over us. Whether they be governing authorities, work-place bosses, law enforcement officers or our Church leadership. In fact, in our local congregations we are told quite clearly to submit ourselves to each other out of reverence for Christ!

Not one of us should consider ourselves greater than another as we are all equal in the eyes of God. We have different functions but we are all loved by God the same. We should be looking to serve others, putting their needs before our own, just as Jesus did when He hung on the cross for us!

Ephesians 5:21 (NIV)

Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)

3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

We have been called to suffer!

20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

In verse 20 – 25 Peter paints a picture for us that at first seems a grim tale of Christian suffering. But let’s have a look at what a Christian’s suffering means to God.

Right, verse 20, when we sin, we deserve to be disciplined by God but when we suffer for doing good, as Jesus did, it is a gracious thing in the eyes of God. This means we aren’t being punished but rather it means that God will pour out His grace and mercy upon us – what a great position to be in!

Verses 21-25, we have been called to suffer because Christ suffered for us as an example for us to follow in His steps. He too was not deserving of suffering as he committed no sin, and no deceit was found in him.

Jesus did not retaliate in any way!

No matter what was happening Jesus did not retaliate in any way, He continued to trust in God the Father even to death on the cross. This is the example that we His Church are commanded to follow for it is the path of salvation and eternal life, the highway of God’s perfect love!

Because Jesus died for our sin, we become righteous in the sight of God. Because He died for us, we are healed!

Verse 25, we had gone astray but Jesus bought us back with His own life – He paid the price for our sin – He ransomed us from the grasp of the devil, we are now under His care as He is the shepherd of our souls! Amen!

James 1:2-3 (NIV)

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

It is our responsibility to follow Jesus in every way!

The testing of our faith produces perseverance!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that by your Holy Spirit, you would strengthen me to endure life’s sufferings and to keep my eyes on you for you are the author and perfecter of my faith. Help me Lord, to put the needs of others before my own! Help me Lord to work out my salvation with fear and trembling. Amen.

To Jesus belongs all glory, honour and praise!

Jesus the Name above all names!

Remember: Reading this article is no substitute for reading and studying the Bible for yourself! I am flawed the Bible is not!

Sunday, 9 October 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 6: 2 Peter 1

Monday, 3 October 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 5: 1 Peter 5

Sunday, 25 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 4: 1 Peter 4

Monday, 19 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 3: 1 Peter 3

Monday, 12 September 2022

Digging into Peter - Part 2: 1 Peter 2

Subscribe To