Digging into Peter - Part 8: 2 Peter 3 Judgement Day is Coming

 

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.

2 Peter chapter 3 - ESV (the verses from 2 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)

Dear Readers
2 Peter 3 is the last chapter of the two letters (1 and 2 Peter) that Peter wrote to the Church of the day and sadly these were the last and only letters he wrote to the Church before he was crucified on the orders or the Roman Emperor Nero in about 64 CE. And consequently, this is the last article in my series ‘Digging into Peter.’

I hope you have enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them – the Holy Spirit has taught me much in writing them and I sincerely hope that He has done the same for you in reading them! All glory to Jesus!

God bless you!

Ray

The Purpose of Peter’s Two Letters

1 This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, 2 that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles,

In these first two verses Peter reminds us that he has written his two letters (1 and 2 Peter) to encourage us in our faith and to remind us that the coming of Jesus (The Messiah) was prophesied from days long ago through the Old Testament prophets and also through the teachings of our Lord himself and the Apostles. Jesus came to fulfil all prophecy for His testimony is the Spirit of prophecy, and He is the fulfilment of the Law which man is unable to keep.

Revelation 19:10b (AMP)

For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy [His life and teaching are the heart of prophecy].”

Matthew 5:17 (NIV)

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.

In the last days many scoffers of the things of God will come

3 knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. 4 They will say, “Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation.” 5 For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, 6 and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. 7 But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.

The Greek word for ‘scoffers’ in verse three is ‘empaiktés’ (pronounced emp-aheek-tace – Strong’s 1703) and means a scoffer or a mocker, and by implication a false prophet or teacher.

In verses 3 -7 above Peter points out five things that he wants the Church to remember at all times. These are:

• In the last days scoffers and mockers will come, following their own evil desires

• They will say, “Where is this Lord who you say is coming? You’ve been saying this for centuries!

• They deliberately overlook that the heavens existed long ago and that the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God (Jesus)!

Genesis 1:1-3 (AMP)

1 In the beginning God (Elohim) created [by forming from nothing] the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was formless and void or a waste and emptiness, and darkness was upon the face of the deep [primeval ocean that covered the unformed earth]. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. 3 And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.

John 1:1-3 (AMP)

1 In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. 2 He was [continually existing] in the beginning [co-eternally] with God. 3 All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him not even one thing was made that has come into being.

• They overlook that in the days of Noah the earth was destroyed by water – deluged!

• They overlook that on judgement day today’s world will be destroyed by fire and the ungodly cast into Hell.

Peter wants us to particularly remember these five things so that we will not be led astray by false prophets and teachers, especially in these last days!

God is spirit and lives outside of time in the realm of eternity

8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.

In verses 8 – 10 Peter reminds us that God lives outside of our earthly time constraints and one day for Him could be a thousand years to us and vice versa. So, He is not slow to keep His promise as we know it! Jesus will return to judge mankind (this is not the rapture return this is Judgement Day) in God’s ‘soon’ not ours! God has infinite patience and does not wish anyone to perish but there is going to come a time when He will bring judgement upon the earth and all mankind! Only the Father knows this time!

Jesus will come to judge mankind like a thief comes, without warning!

Matthew 24:36 (NIV)

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Matthew 24:44 (NIV)

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

What sort of people must we be in readiness for our judgement day. What must the Church look like for the rapture?

11 Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, 12 waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn! 13 But according to his promise we are waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.

In verse 11 above Peter asks the Church, “What sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness (Firstly being rapture ready), (and secondly) waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God –Judgement Day?”

(For more information on what holiness and godliness is please read my blog ‘What is Holiness?’ published on 18 July 2022. Click on this link: https://rayskilton.blogspot.com/2022/07/what-is-holiness.html).

Peter tells us we should be ‘hastening’ Judgement Day – the day of God. We should be praying for this day to come having an earnest desire for it to arrive as also we should be praying for the rapture of the Church!

When this day arrives, the passing of the old forever, we, the Church, will receive the promise of a new heavens and a new earth! On this day the whole (new) earth will be filled with God’s glory and His righteousness! What a day this will be for us Church – living in the midst of our God!

Revelation 21:1-4 (NIV)

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

14 Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. 15 And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, 16 as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. 17 You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

In verses 14 – 18 above Peter continues in telling us what sort of people we should be in our lives of holiness and godliness – being rapture ready.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 AMP)

16 For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! 18 Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words [concerning our reunion with believers who have died].

Peter goes on to say that we should be diligent to be found by the Lord, when He comes for His Church at the rapture, to be without spot or blemish and at peace. Now what does this mean for us in real terms?

Without spot or blemish:
The Greek word for this is ‘aspilos’ (pronounced as'-pee-los – Strong’s 784) and its expanded meaning is unstained, undefiled, spotless, pure, untainted, morally unblemished and fully acceptable to God.

In other words, without sin and not steeped in the sins or in the likeness of the world. Remember that Peter is addressing the saved not the unsaved so we, the Church, must not be in willful sin in any way and obedient to the Word in all ways! We mustn’t still be swearing, getting drunk and other things that many of today’s Christians are still doing even though they have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. We must be working out our salvation with fear and trembling! Let’s not act offensively towards God or discredit the name of Jesus! God is our Father in Heaven!

Philippians 2:12 (AMP)

So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].

And at peace:
The Greek word for peace here is eiréné (pronounced i-ray'-nay – Strong’s 1515) and its expanded meaning is to be as one with others (believers), to be at peace with oneself (having peace of mind), quietness, rest.

In its Hebrew sense, peace or ‘shalom’ was used as a common farewell blessing to others with the connotation of God's blessing of good health and welfare being bestowed on the individual you were departing from.

It is the peace that comes to us from the Lord that passes all understanding and the peace that comes from our salvation in Christ Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit to remain in Him as we look to Jesus to see us through the trials, tribulations and temptations of life – to be overcomers and conquerors to the end!

Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV)

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:37 (AMP)

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors and gain an overwhelming victory through Him who loved us [so much that He died for us].

In verses 15 and 16 Peter gives a glowing endorsement to the teachings and writings of the Apostle Paul and encourages us to also take to heart Paul’s teachings to the glory of Jesus. Let’s do it Church!

And in the final two verses of this chapter and of the entire letter as well, Peter reiterates that we must not let ourselves be drawn away from the truth of Jesus and His Word, especially in the last days, by the lies and deceit of false prophets and teachers. And to grow in the love, grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! Amen!

2 Corinthians 13:14 (NIV)

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to live and grow in holiness and godliness. Help me to be quick to repent of my sinful actions and let no unconfessed sin lie hidden within me. Help me to remain steadfast and true in the teachings of the Bible in the power of your Holy Spirit that I may bring glory to the name of Jesus. 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!

Digging into Peter - Part 7: 2 Peter 2 The Fate of False Prophets and Teachers

 

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.

2 Peter chapter 2 - ESV (the verses from 2 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)

False Prophets and Teachers

1 But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. 2 And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3 And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.

At the start of this chapter, Peter continues from where he left off in Chapter 1 where he is talking about the Old Testament prophets.

In verses 1-3 above He warns the Church (us today as well) that just as false prophets arose in those times, so they will continue to arise even to today and beyond until judgement day. 

He even tells us how we will recognise them!

They will sneak in ‘destructive heresies’. The word heresies here comes from the Greek word ‘hairesis’, pronounced ‘hah-ee-res-is’ (Strong’s 139) and means: self-opinions, a false belief, a philosophical opinion, discord and divisive contention. In other word they will distort the Bible teachings for personal gain and self-prestige.

Galatians 1:7b-8 (NIV)

Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!

1 Corinthians 1:1-2 (NIV)

And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. 2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

Jesus himself in Matthew 7:15 and Acts 20:29-30 describes these false prophets and teachers as savage and ravenous wolves!

• They will deny Jesus who redeemed them with His own blood! Thus, they bring on themselves a swift destruction!

• They will lead many astray as their teachings and actions will appeal to the flesh – our senses and fleshly passions – and not to our Spirit!

• And because of them the way of truth – the way of Jesus, the way of the Spirit – will be blasphemed! They will slander, malign and profane the sacred things of God!

• Their greed and lies will exploit the Church for personal wealth and prestige!

Matthew 7:15 (NIV)

 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.

Acts 20:29-30 (NIV)

29 I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. 30 Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.

Their destruction is assured!

From verse four onwards to the end of the chapter, Peter lets us know just how harshly false prophets and teachers and every unrepentant sinner will be punished.

Our God is a God of justice, and he will not tolerate the unrepentant sinner for much longer.

Luke 13:3 (AMP)

I tell you, no; but unless you repent [change your old way of thinking, turn from your sinful ways and live changed lives], you will all likewise perish.

John 3:36 (AMP)

He who believes and trusts in the Son and accepts Him [as Savior] has eternal life [that is, already possesses it]; but he who does not believe the Son and chooses to reject Him, [disobeying Him and denying Him as Savior] will not see [eternal] life, but [instead] the wrath of God hangs over him continually.”

Revelation 21:8 (AMP)

But as for the cowards and unbelieving and abominable [who are devoid of character and personal integrity and practice or tolerate immorality], and murderers, and sorcerers [with intoxicating drugs], and idolaters and occultists [who practice and teach false religions], and all the liars [who knowingly deceive and twist truth], their part will be in the lake that blazes with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; 5 if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly; 6 if by turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to ashes he condemned them to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;

In verses 4 -6 above Peter reminds us that the judgement that God brought in the past is going to be meted out on all false prophets and teachers, past and present as it will on all the ungodly, those that do not know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Those that will not bow their knee to Jesus! There is only one way back to God and salvation, and that is through the Son Jesus.

John 14:6 (NIV)

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

Angels were not spared, the ancient world at the flood was not spared and Sodom and Gomorrah were not spared. All these are examples of what is going to happen to the ungodly since those times who were not/are not born again!

John 3:3 (AMP)

Jesus answered him, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of God.”

7 and if he rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked 8 (for as that righteous man lived among them day after day, he was tormenting his righteous soul over their lawless deeds that he saw and heard); 9 then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, 10 and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority. Bold and willful, they do not tremble as they blaspheme the glorious ones, 11 whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not pronounce a blasphemous judgment against them before the Lord.

In verses 7 – 11 above Pater assures us that God knows who are His, those who are born again and know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour and have repented from their sin and He knows how to rescue us from life’s trials.

He also knows those that don’t belong to him, those who are not born again, the unrighteous and he keeps them under punishment until judgement day, especially those who wilfully lust after sin, self-pleasure and slander and profane the sacred things of God and when they think nothing of Christ’s lordship and sacrifice! They have no fear in blaspheming the Holy Spirit and angelic beings!

The frightening fate of false prophets and teachers and those with unrepentant hearts

12 But these, like irrational animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed, blaspheming about matters of which they are ignorant, will also be destroyed in their destruction, 13 suffering wrong as the wage for their wrongdoing. They count it pleasure to revel in the daytime. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their deceptions, while they feast with you. 14 They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin. They entice unsteady souls. They have hearts trained in greed. Accursed children! 15 Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray. They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, 16 but was rebuked for his own transgression; a speechless donkey spoke with human voice and restrained the prophet's madness. 17 These are waterless springs and mists driven by a storm. For them the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved.

In verses 12 – 17 above Peter pulls no punches in his explanation of the fate of false prophets and teachers! As the Word says they will face a harsh judgement for their sin!

Teachers! Preach only the Word of God not the fancies of fleshly man! Preach only Jesus Christ and Him crucified!

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.

1 Corinthians 2:1-2 (AMP)

And when I came to you, brothers and sisters, proclaiming to you the testimony of God [concerning salvation through Christ], I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom [no lofty words of eloquence or of philosophy as a Greek orator might do]; 2 for I made the decision to know nothing [that is, to forego philosophical or theological discussions regarding inconsequential things and opinions while] among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified [and the meaning of His redemptive, substitutionary death and His resurrection].

We all know that scripture was written by men under the power of the Holy Spirit – God breathed.

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.

So, from verse 12 -17, this is how God describes the nature, characteristics, and actions of the wicked and what their fate will be!

18 For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.

In verses 18 and 19 above Peter goes on to say that the false prophets and teachers lead those whose faith is weak into sin by tempting them with the passions of the flesh, they promise them freedom through ‘things and works’ instead of freedom in Christ Jesus.

John 8:34 (NIV)

Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.

John 8:36 (NIV)

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

When the Son sets your free you are no longer a slave to sin but a slave of righteousness!

Romans 6:17-18 (NIV)

17 But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. 18 You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

20 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. 21 For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. 22 What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.”(Proverbs 26:11)

In verse 20 – 22 above, Peter tells us that the false prophets and teachers once knew Jesus as Lord and Saviour but have departed from the way of righteousness and have once again embraced sin and the passions of the flesh. 

They were once born-again but have now returned to their old sinful ways like a dog that returns to its vomit and have become worse than they ever were before. Peter says for people like this it would have been better for them never to have known Jesus as Lord and Saviour than to have returned to their old, evil ways! Their destruction is assured!

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father
In the name of Jesus, I pray that you would fill me with your Holy Spirit and help me to discern truth from error and to avoid being led astray by false prophets and teachers. Help me Lord to continue on the path of righteousness in Christ Jesus and never to return to my old, evil ways. 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!

Digging into Peter - Part 6: 2 Peter 1

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.

2 Peter chapter 1 - ESV (the verses from 2 Peter 1 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)

Greeting
1 Simeon (Simon) Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours by the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ:
2 May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

Peter’s opening address and greeting to the Church in these first two verses is one of incredible humility and love towards his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. His attitude towards others so emulates that of Jesus! He doesn’t consider himself to be greater than anyone else. This is something we all need to remember and do when we are interacting with each other!

He considers himself to be a servant before being an apostle and he considers us, the Church, to be equal to himself in faith and standing and in righteousness before God because of Jesus our Saviour! It’s all about Jesus not Peter! His example perfectly reflects the attitude of Jesus. Let each of us do the same Church!

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!

Digging into Peter - Part 5: 1 Peter 5

 

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 5 - ESV (the verses from 2 Peter 1 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)

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!

Digging into Peter - Part 4: 1 Peter 4

 

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 4 - ESV (the verses from 1 Peter 4 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)

Living for the will of God

1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.

In verses 1 and 2 above Peter tells us that because Jesus suffered and died for us, we should be like-minded and have the same way of thinking that He did, not living for ourselves but living for the will of God to be done in and through us. Let us ‘arm’ ourselves with Christ’s way of thinking!

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!