Introduction
Apostle Peter wrote his first letter to Christians who were scattered in the Roman provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia. It was a time of persecution and suffering. Peter wrote this letter to encourage Christians to remain faithful in spite of their suffering. Their character and conduct must be above reproach. Peter wants them to know that holiness and suffering are vitally connected. He wants them to know that those who desire to live holy will suffer (1 Pet 1:7; 2 Tim 3:12). So it is not some strange thing happened to them (1 Pet 4:12). Christians are not exempted from suffering in this fallen world. Believers are called to become partakers of the suffering of Christ. This letter also encourages them to rejoice in suffering. Peter also exhorts Christians about the importance of humility and unity among them. Christ has set an example for us to follow his steps (1 Pet 2:21). In Chapter one Peter exhorts Christians that God’s grace is sufficient in their salvation. In chapter two we see that grace leads them to sanctification. In Chapter three Peter explains how God’s grace should motivate them to submission. Chapters four and five explain the importance of God’s grace in suffering. Scholars suggest that this letter was written from Rome around A.D 64, when Christians were going through severe persecution under Nero (1 Pet 5:13).
Chapter 1
Greetings: 1 Peter 1:1, 2.
Peter begins his letter by calling himself an apostle of Jesus Christ. He is called and commissioned by Christ. Peter knew that he was chosen to be an apostle by the grace of God. He calls himself a bond slave of Jesus Christ (2 Pet 1:1). Peter was totally committed to serve Christ. His Jewish name was Simon. Cephas was his Aramaic name. His Greek name, Peter was given by Jesus Christ which means a stone (John 1:42). Peter did not become a disciple of Christ in his first meeting with Jesus (John 1:42). Later when Jesus invited, Peter left everything and followed Him (Luke 5:11). He was a slow learner of faith (Matt 14:31). At times he acted impulsively and was fearful (John 18:10, 25). Peter was privileged to see the glory of Christ on the mount of transfiguration (Matt 17). Also Peter was enlightened to testify Jesus as the "Son of the living God "(John 6:69). Jesus knew how weak Peter was and prayed for him that his faith may not fail (Luke 22:31, 32). Being a Jew it was difficult for Peter to believe that Christ should suffer and enter into His glory (Matt 16:23). It took Peter many years to understand this truth (1 Peter 4:12, 13). Peter failed many times yet he was restored by Christ (John 21:15-17). He understood that love will cover a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Failure does not disqualify anyone from serving the Lord, if he is willing to repent of his sin. Our God is the God of second chance. Christian life is a series of new beginnings (Phil 3:13, 14). Peter refers to Trinity in his greeting (1:2). The believers are included in the foreknowledge of God when it comes to their salvation (Acts 2:23; Rom 8:29). They are are sanctified by the Holy Spirit or set apart for God's use. They are also cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. In our salvations all three persons in the Godhead are involved. Holiness and suffering are vitally connected (Rom 5:3-4). Christians are blessed with grace and peace.
Our Heavenly Inheritance: 1 Peter 1:3-5.
Peter desires that Christians should be thankful for their salvation. Salvation is entirely of God’s initiative. He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is the only Savior. We have been begotten by the Holy Spirit. Mercy is the compassion shown to the miserable. We were dead in sin and trespasses. God saved us not because of the good works we have done but of His mercy (Eph 2:4; Titus 3: 4, 5). We are born again to a living hope (1:3). Our inheritance is in heaven. We live in a world where people have no hope (1 Thess 4:13). Our hope is the confident expectation built upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Rom 8:18). It is not a wishful thinking (1:3). Christians look beyond present circumstances with a living hope in Christ. This is a spiritual inheritance which we have not earned but received. This inheritance is in the person of Jesus Christ and to be like Him. This is reserved in heaven and kept by the power of God. It is imperishable, without pollution and unfading. Being born again, we are kept by the power of God through faith for the salvation ready to be revealed on the last day. It is a military term for garrison that provides protection. This also speaks of the finished work of Christ on Calvary. The last day corresponds to the second coming of Christ. Christians are saved from the penalty of sin, they are being saved from the power of sin and one day they will be saved from the presence of sin. The blessings we experience in our salvation today are only a foretaste of the glories blessings we will enjoy in heaven (1 Cor 2:9). Peter reminds believers of their future hope so that they may not be discouraged in their suffering. They may find strength knowing that they are forgiven and eternally secured in Christ. Our eternal security gives us strength to face suffering in this world.
Why God permits Trials and Sufferings: 1 Peter 1:6-9.
God wants Christians to rejoice in their salvation even though they have to endure many trials. God has never promised us an easy life rather promised to make us like his Son. Christians can rejoice in suffering because our suffering is momentary and it is the steppingstone to lasting glory (2 Cor 4:17). Suffering is designed to prove the true nature of our faith. Trials should not be wasted though it is painful. But later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness (Heb 12:11). When we suffer for Christ and his righteousness, we become partakers of Christ’s suffering. Someone has said "A faith that is not tested cannot be trusted". We love Christ and rejoice with inexpressible joy because we are kept by the power of God for the future glory. One day we will be with Christ and be like Him in glory (Rom 8:28-29). No one is exempted from suffering and it is a fact of life in this fallen world. In our sufferings, God has promised us His presence and grace (2 Cor 12:9). Though believers do not see Christ, we love and rejoice in Him. Trials are inevitable and useful in Christian life (John 16:33; Phil 1:29). It helps us to humble ourselves before God and develop intimacy with Him (2 Cor 12:7, 8). Sufferings help us to life from God's view point. It reveals that our faith in Christ is precious than gold that perishes. It will bring much praise and glory when Christ returns. Love and joy, characterize Christian life. The believers find strength in their suffering knowing that they are forgiven and their salvation is secured for ever.
Salvation Revealed: 1 Peter 1:10-12.
Peter explains the wonder of salvation we posses. Salvation is a gift of God and it cannot be earned but only be received by faith (Eph 2:8, 9). It is more than the deliverance from sin and its consequences. The Old Testament prophets knew a great deal about the coming Savior. They searched and inquired in whom the Messianic prophecies will be fulfilled and when it would happen. These prophecies are found in every pages of the Bible (Luke 24:25-27). The whole Bible is the unfolding story of Jesus Christ and the gospel (2 Tim 2:8). Someone has said “Christ is predicated in the Old Testament, revealed in the Gospels, preached in the book of Acts, explained in the Letters and anticipated in the book of Revelation”. They did prophecy about Christ’s suffering and the glory to come. In Christ all these prophecies are fulfilled. This is the good news proclaimed to us by the apostles. What a privilege to live is such a time which angels desired to look into (1:12). Although the Old Testament prophets and angels did not understand the details of this great salvation, by grace we have entered into salvation through faith. The Old Testament prophecies about Christ also proves the unity of the Scriptures (2 Tim 3:15). The ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament was to point forward to Jesus Christ. And the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament is to proclaim Christ to the end of the earth through Christians. Old Testament was sufficient to lead a sinner into salvation (Acts 8:26- 39). How thankful we must be for the whole Bible! The salvation was not an afterthought but a divine plan of God made before the world began.
A Call to Holy Living: 1 Peter 1:13-17.
Peter now calls to holy living. Being saved by grace we should live with our hope fixed upon the coming of Christ. Salvation is in Christ alone, by grace alone and through faith alone. We cannot add anything to salvation. It is a life transforming work of God (Rom 12:1, 2). Peter exhorts us to be sober minded and look forward to the salvation that will come to us when Christ is revealed to the world (1:13). This grace will be revealed before the world at the second coming of Christ. Meanwhile we must live like obedient children of God and do not slip back to our old ways of living to satisfy our own desires. Without holiness no one can see God. Holiness is not something we earn but what God has already done for us in Christ Jesus (1 Cor 1:30; Heb 10:14). Christ’s atoning death is the basis of all our spiritual blessings. Our greatest joy is that our sins have been fully paid on the cross and we have been saved from sin. Believers should meditate on Christ’s suffering to stir their hearts to love Christ and live a holy life. Since we are the children of God, we should be holy in all our conduct. Holiness has both positive side and negative side. We must not follow our former sinful lust but imitate Christ in our daily lives.
Basis for Holy Living: 1 Peter 1:18-25.
Christians must live in reverential fear towards God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Pro 1:7). This is the healthy and wholesome fear that respects God as our heavenly Father. It is the most essential aspect in Christian living. There is a negative kind of fear that causes people to live in fear. It is difficult to imagine anything worse than to live every day in fear. Only when we take God at His Word with confidence we can live in peace. Christ is our peace and He alone is our security. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid” (John 14:1). We are redeemed by the blood of Christ from sin to live a holy life. We cannot earn redemption but only receive it by faith in the finished work of Christ (Eph 1:7). We are ransomed by the imperishable blood of Christ (1:18). God the Father planned our redemption before the foundation of the world. Christ has revealed and procured it in these last days through His death on the cross (1 Pet 1:20). His blood is far greater in value than silver and gold. The wonder of redemption is that God pursued us with this salvation which He planned in eternity past. Christ purchased it by His death and the Holy Spirit applies it to all those who truth in Christ. It is our privilege to trust and obey the risen Savior who loved us and gave Himself for us (Gal 2:20). Hearing the gospel will not save anyone but believing in Christ. Obeying Christ is the proof of our salvation. The born again believers will love each other intensely with pure heart. The living Word is the instrument, the Holy Spirit uses to impart the new life in us. Only God’s Word endures forever and everything else is temporary. Grass withers and flower fades but God’s Word last forever (Isaiah 40:8). Our emotions and feelings will change but God’s Word never changes (Matt 5:18). So the key to the Christian living is the obedience of the written Word of God. The gospel has no expiration date! This is the Word that was preached to us (1 Pet 1:25).
Peter begins his letter by calling himself an apostle of Jesus Christ. He is called and commissioned by Christ. Peter knew that he was chosen to be an apostle by the grace of God. He calls himself a bond slave of Jesus Christ (2 Pet 1:1). Peter was totally committed to serve Christ. His Jewish name was Simon. Cephas was his Aramaic name. His Greek name, Peter was given by Jesus Christ which means a stone (John 1:42). Peter did not become a disciple of Christ in his first meeting with Jesus (John 1:42). Later when Jesus invited, Peter left everything and followed Him (Luke 5:11). He was a slow learner of faith (Matt 14:31). At times he acted impulsively and was fearful (John 18:10, 25). Peter was privileged to see the glory of Christ on the mount of transfiguration (Matt 17). Also Peter was enlightened to testify Jesus as the "Son of the living God "(John 6:69). Jesus knew how weak Peter was and prayed for him that his faith may not fail (Luke 22:31, 32). Being a Jew it was difficult for Peter to believe that Christ should suffer and enter into His glory (Matt 16:23). It took Peter many years to understand this truth (1 Peter 4:12, 13). Peter failed many times yet he was restored by Christ (John 21:15-17). He understood that love will cover a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Failure does not disqualify anyone from serving the Lord, if he is willing to repent of his sin. Our God is the God of second chance. Christian life is a series of new beginnings (Phil 3:13, 14). Peter refers to Trinity in his greeting (1:2). The believers are included in the foreknowledge of God when it comes to their salvation (Acts 2:23; Rom 8:29). They are are sanctified by the Holy Spirit or set apart for God's use. They are also cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. In our salvations all three persons in the Godhead are involved. Holiness and suffering are vitally connected (Rom 5:3-4). Christians are blessed with grace and peace.
Our Heavenly Inheritance: 1 Peter 1:3-5.
Peter desires that Christians should be thankful for their salvation. Salvation is entirely of God’s initiative. He is the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus is the only Savior. We have been begotten by the Holy Spirit. Mercy is the compassion shown to the miserable. We were dead in sin and trespasses. God saved us not because of the good works we have done but of His mercy (Eph 2:4; Titus 3: 4, 5). We are born again to a living hope (1:3). Our inheritance is in heaven. We live in a world where people have no hope (1 Thess 4:13). Our hope is the confident expectation built upon the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Rom 8:18). It is not a wishful thinking (1:3). Christians look beyond present circumstances with a living hope in Christ. This is a spiritual inheritance which we have not earned but received. This inheritance is in the person of Jesus Christ and to be like Him. This is reserved in heaven and kept by the power of God. It is imperishable, without pollution and unfading. Being born again, we are kept by the power of God through faith for the salvation ready to be revealed on the last day. It is a military term for garrison that provides protection. This also speaks of the finished work of Christ on Calvary. The last day corresponds to the second coming of Christ. Christians are saved from the penalty of sin, they are being saved from the power of sin and one day they will be saved from the presence of sin. The blessings we experience in our salvation today are only a foretaste of the glories blessings we will enjoy in heaven (1 Cor 2:9). Peter reminds believers of their future hope so that they may not be discouraged in their suffering. They may find strength knowing that they are forgiven and eternally secured in Christ. Our eternal security gives us strength to face suffering in this world.
Why God permits Trials and Sufferings: 1 Peter 1:6-9.
God wants Christians to rejoice in their salvation even though they have to endure many trials. God has never promised us an easy life rather promised to make us like his Son. Christians can rejoice in suffering because our suffering is momentary and it is the steppingstone to lasting glory (2 Cor 4:17). Suffering is designed to prove the true nature of our faith. Trials should not be wasted though it is painful. But later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness (Heb 12:11). When we suffer for Christ and his righteousness, we become partakers of Christ’s suffering. Someone has said "A faith that is not tested cannot be trusted". We love Christ and rejoice with inexpressible joy because we are kept by the power of God for the future glory. One day we will be with Christ and be like Him in glory (Rom 8:28-29). No one is exempted from suffering and it is a fact of life in this fallen world. In our sufferings, God has promised us His presence and grace (2 Cor 12:9). Though believers do not see Christ, we love and rejoice in Him. Trials are inevitable and useful in Christian life (John 16:33; Phil 1:29). It helps us to humble ourselves before God and develop intimacy with Him (2 Cor 12:7, 8). Sufferings help us to life from God's view point. It reveals that our faith in Christ is precious than gold that perishes. It will bring much praise and glory when Christ returns. Love and joy, characterize Christian life. The believers find strength in their suffering knowing that they are forgiven and their salvation is secured for ever.
Salvation Revealed: 1 Peter 1:10-12.
Peter explains the wonder of salvation we posses. Salvation is a gift of God and it cannot be earned but only be received by faith (Eph 2:8, 9). It is more than the deliverance from sin and its consequences. The Old Testament prophets knew a great deal about the coming Savior. They searched and inquired in whom the Messianic prophecies will be fulfilled and when it would happen. These prophecies are found in every pages of the Bible (Luke 24:25-27). The whole Bible is the unfolding story of Jesus Christ and the gospel (2 Tim 2:8). Someone has said “Christ is predicated in the Old Testament, revealed in the Gospels, preached in the book of Acts, explained in the Letters and anticipated in the book of Revelation”. They did prophecy about Christ’s suffering and the glory to come. In Christ all these prophecies are fulfilled. This is the good news proclaimed to us by the apostles. What a privilege to live is such a time which angels desired to look into (1:12). Although the Old Testament prophets and angels did not understand the details of this great salvation, by grace we have entered into salvation through faith. The Old Testament prophecies about Christ also proves the unity of the Scriptures (2 Tim 3:15). The ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament was to point forward to Jesus Christ. And the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament is to proclaim Christ to the end of the earth through Christians. Old Testament was sufficient to lead a sinner into salvation (Acts 8:26- 39). How thankful we must be for the whole Bible! The salvation was not an afterthought but a divine plan of God made before the world began.
A Call to Holy Living: 1 Peter 1:13-17.
Peter now calls to holy living. Being saved by grace we should live with our hope fixed upon the coming of Christ. Salvation is in Christ alone, by grace alone and through faith alone. We cannot add anything to salvation. It is a life transforming work of God (Rom 12:1, 2). Peter exhorts us to be sober minded and look forward to the salvation that will come to us when Christ is revealed to the world (1:13). This grace will be revealed before the world at the second coming of Christ. Meanwhile we must live like obedient children of God and do not slip back to our old ways of living to satisfy our own desires. Without holiness no one can see God. Holiness is not something we earn but what God has already done for us in Christ Jesus (1 Cor 1:30; Heb 10:14). Christ’s atoning death is the basis of all our spiritual blessings. Our greatest joy is that our sins have been fully paid on the cross and we have been saved from sin. Believers should meditate on Christ’s suffering to stir their hearts to love Christ and live a holy life. Since we are the children of God, we should be holy in all our conduct. Holiness has both positive side and negative side. We must not follow our former sinful lust but imitate Christ in our daily lives.
Basis for Holy Living: 1 Peter 1:18-25.
Christians must live in reverential fear towards God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Pro 1:7). This is the healthy and wholesome fear that respects God as our heavenly Father. It is the most essential aspect in Christian living. There is a negative kind of fear that causes people to live in fear. It is difficult to imagine anything worse than to live every day in fear. Only when we take God at His Word with confidence we can live in peace. Christ is our peace and He alone is our security. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid” (John 14:1). We are redeemed by the blood of Christ from sin to live a holy life. We cannot earn redemption but only receive it by faith in the finished work of Christ (Eph 1:7). We are ransomed by the imperishable blood of Christ (1:18). God the Father planned our redemption before the foundation of the world. Christ has revealed and procured it in these last days through His death on the cross (1 Pet 1:20). His blood is far greater in value than silver and gold. The wonder of redemption is that God pursued us with this salvation which He planned in eternity past. Christ purchased it by His death and the Holy Spirit applies it to all those who truth in Christ. It is our privilege to trust and obey the risen Savior who loved us and gave Himself for us (Gal 2:20). Hearing the gospel will not save anyone but believing in Christ. Obeying Christ is the proof of our salvation. The born again believers will love each other intensely with pure heart. The living Word is the instrument, the Holy Spirit uses to impart the new life in us. Only God’s Word endures forever and everything else is temporary. Grass withers and flower fades but God’s Word last forever (Isaiah 40:8). Our emotions and feelings will change but God’s Word never changes (Matt 5:18). So the key to the Christian living is the obedience of the written Word of God. The gospel has no expiration date! This is the Word that was preached to us (1 Pet 1:25).
Chapter 2
The Exhortation to Grow: 1 Peter 2:1-3
Peter uses a metaphor here to exhort Christians to grow spiritually. They should desire the milk of the word of God. Christians are those who tasted the goodness of the Lord in salvation. They have been born again through the living word of God (1 Pet 1:23). It is a life giving word of grace (John 6:33). It is also a life transforming Word of salvation (Gal 2:20; John 10:10). Since we have tasted the grace of the Lord we should grow to maturity. Christians should put off their old nature and put on the new nature daily by growing in the grace (Eph 4:22-24). We must get rid of the sin of malice, hypocrisy, deceit, envy and slander daily. These sins can destroy the fellowship among believers and hinder our spiritual growth. Christ and sin cannot both look beautiful simultaneously. Christ will not taste sweet to us until sin taste bitter. As one rises, the other falls. Healthy babies long to be fed with milk. Here milk is a reference to the Word of God. Where there is no desire for milk, there is no growth. Only the pure Word of God gives proper nourishment. Adding water to the Word of God is destructive. Born again believers will have a passion for the Word of God (Psalms 42:1; 119:103). By God's grace we are born again and the same grace leads us to godliness. Godliness is the transformed life produced by the Holy Spirit as we grow in the knowledge of Christ.
The Spiritual House: 1 Peter 2:4-8:
Peter uses the metaphor of a building to show our position in Christ. He refers to the church in the same way the Old Testament referred to Israel. Christians are "a royal priesthood and a holy nation" (1 Pet 2:9). This indicates that, Jews and non-Jews find their identity in Christ and become part of the church. They are redeemed to live a holy life. Christians are a spiritual house. Christ is referred as living stone in the Old Testament (Isaiah 28:16). Jesus made a reference to it when he was rejected by the Jewish leaders (Matt 21:42). Though the world rejected Christ he became the corner stone by his resurrection. Christ is referred in the bible as the "the living stone, the corner stone, the sure foundation and the precious stone" (Isaiah 28:16; 51:1; 1 Pet 2:4, 6 7; Rom 9:33; 1 Cor 10:4). Those who have come to Jesus Christ have received life through Him and become the living stones by which the the church is built. Church is not a building but the gathering of the called out people of God (1 Cor 3:16). It is built upon the Jesus Christ (Matt 16:18). Those who reject Jesus, He is a stone of stumbling and offense (Isaiah 8:14; 1 Pet 2:8). But to those who believe Christ, He is precious.
The Holy Priesthood: 1 Peter 2:9-10.
Christians are those who find their identity in Christ. They are a separated or holy people. Their behavior flows from their belief and relationship with Christ. Christians are chosen people to function as holy and royal priesthood. They are a holy nation and God’s own people (2:9). There is much misunderstanding about holiness and sainthood among Christians. In the scripture saint is the designation of every believer in Christ. They are saints because they are in Christ. He has cleansed their sin and are clothed them with His righteousness. Christians are set apart for God’s use like the Tabernacle and Temple in the Old Testament. Also holiness speaks of our practice and attitude in our living. Scholars suggest that noun “Saint” speaks of our relationship with Christ. They are set apart for God’s use and the verb sanctify, speaks of our practice. The function of priesthood in the Old Testament was to offer animal sacrifices. They were chosen from the tribe of Levi. The New Testament Church is the holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices unto God (Heb 13:15). It is the privilege of all believers and not some selected few. The Old Testament also speaks about spiritual sacrifices such as sacrifice of praise, sacrifice of righteousness and the sacrifice of prayer (Psalms 50:23; 51:19; 141:2). Peter urges believers to live such a way to show the excellence of the God to others. They are set apart for the glory of God.
Christians should live in a Honorable life: 1 Peter 2:10-11.
In the New Testament we read about many sacrifices. We are exhorted to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Rom 12:1). Our faith is referred as a sacrifice in Philippians 2:17. Our material gifts to the Lord is also referred as a fragrant sacrifice (Phil 4:18). Our praise and sharing with others are acceptable sacrifices unto God (Heb 13: 15, 16). Preaching the gospel is a priestly sacrifice (Rom 15:15). We are the chosen people of God. God saved us and made us part of his family (Deut 7:7-8). Christians are the royal priesthood because they are chosen to serve Christ. They should fear the Lord and obey His word. If we remain faithful, we shall reign with Him (2 Tim 2:12). Christians are a holy nation and God’s own people. They are born of God (John 1:13). That is how we become the holy people. Our true identity is weather we belong to Christ of not. He saved us to become zealous for good works (Titus 2:14). Once we were not God’s people but we obtained mercy. When we experience God's mercy, it will always lead to live a new kind of life. Peter sums up here that we should declare the praise of God who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. God in His mercy has saved us to proclaim His praises. Do we proclaim God’s wonderful works in our lives? They are too numerous to be numbered (Psalm 40:5). What a merciful Savior! Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Christians should live Godly Life: 1 Peter 2:12-20.
Peter encourages believers to live a godly life. They should be example to others by loving one another. We live in a fallen world and battle against the flesh (Gal 5:24). So Peter encourages them to keep away from evil desires of the flesh. Paul also exhorts Christians to put on Christ that they make to provision for the flesh to satisfy its carnal desires (Rom 13:14). When we are satisfied with Christ we will not sin. Secondly believers are exhorted to have honorable conduct among gentiles so that they may observe our good conduct and come to Christ. Christians must submit to authority for the Lord’s sake because they are appointed by God (Rom 13:1). The Apostles refused to submit to religious leaders because their order was contrary to the will of God (Act 4:18-20; 5: 29). Peter also exhorts servants to be subject to their masters even if they are not kind and reasonable. This suffering is temporary and God will reward if we endure it patiently. In the end, God will ensure that justice is done. Our good life will silence those who slander us. God rewards them for being faithful to their masters. Christian freedom should not be an excuse to practice evil but to serve others in love. we should show respect for everyone and love fellow believers. Christians are identified by their love for one another (John 13:35). They should fear God and show respect to authority (Matt 10:28).
Follow Christ’s Example: 1 Peter 2:21-25.
Peter exhorts believers that they should be humble and submissive. God's gracious purpose in suffering is that they do not get despair over suffering as if it were God's punishment. Christ himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we do not have to (1 Pet 2:24). It is comforting to know that our suffering is not a sign of God's anger (Rom 8:1). Christ suffered for us, leaving an example for us to follow His steps (1 Pet 2:21). The main purpose of Christ’s suffering was to save us. Even in that suffering He set an example to follow His humility and submission. Christ never sinned and never deceived anyone yet He suffered (Mark 3:21, 22; Matt 26:67). He did not retaliate but patiently endured the unfair treatment of the enemies. Verses 22-24 are quotation from Isaiah 53:4-9. Christ was obedient to His heavenly Father. Christ died on the cross for us so that we might dies to our self and live for righteousness. We have been healed from the sickness of sin by His wounds. This is a picture of our redemption from sin and not our physical healing. We will be ultimately healed and made perfect when Christ returns. Once we all were willfully wandering away from God like lost sheep. Christ the good shepherd has gathered us to Himself. He is our great shepherd and the guardian of our soul. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Are you willing to take up your cross and follow Him? (Matt 10:38).
Peter uses a metaphor here to exhort Christians to grow spiritually. They should desire the milk of the word of God. Christians are those who tasted the goodness of the Lord in salvation. They have been born again through the living word of God (1 Pet 1:23). It is a life giving word of grace (John 6:33). It is also a life transforming Word of salvation (Gal 2:20; John 10:10). Since we have tasted the grace of the Lord we should grow to maturity. Christians should put off their old nature and put on the new nature daily by growing in the grace (Eph 4:22-24). We must get rid of the sin of malice, hypocrisy, deceit, envy and slander daily. These sins can destroy the fellowship among believers and hinder our spiritual growth. Christ and sin cannot both look beautiful simultaneously. Christ will not taste sweet to us until sin taste bitter. As one rises, the other falls. Healthy babies long to be fed with milk. Here milk is a reference to the Word of God. Where there is no desire for milk, there is no growth. Only the pure Word of God gives proper nourishment. Adding water to the Word of God is destructive. Born again believers will have a passion for the Word of God (Psalms 42:1; 119:103). By God's grace we are born again and the same grace leads us to godliness. Godliness is the transformed life produced by the Holy Spirit as we grow in the knowledge of Christ.
The Spiritual House: 1 Peter 2:4-8:
Peter uses the metaphor of a building to show our position in Christ. He refers to the church in the same way the Old Testament referred to Israel. Christians are "a royal priesthood and a holy nation" (1 Pet 2:9). This indicates that, Jews and non-Jews find their identity in Christ and become part of the church. They are redeemed to live a holy life. Christians are a spiritual house. Christ is referred as living stone in the Old Testament (Isaiah 28:16). Jesus made a reference to it when he was rejected by the Jewish leaders (Matt 21:42). Though the world rejected Christ he became the corner stone by his resurrection. Christ is referred in the bible as the "the living stone, the corner stone, the sure foundation and the precious stone" (Isaiah 28:16; 51:1; 1 Pet 2:4, 6 7; Rom 9:33; 1 Cor 10:4). Those who have come to Jesus Christ have received life through Him and become the living stones by which the the church is built. Church is not a building but the gathering of the called out people of God (1 Cor 3:16). It is built upon the Jesus Christ (Matt 16:18). Those who reject Jesus, He is a stone of stumbling and offense (Isaiah 8:14; 1 Pet 2:8). But to those who believe Christ, He is precious.
The Holy Priesthood: 1 Peter 2:9-10.
Christians are those who find their identity in Christ. They are a separated or holy people. Their behavior flows from their belief and relationship with Christ. Christians are chosen people to function as holy and royal priesthood. They are a holy nation and God’s own people (2:9). There is much misunderstanding about holiness and sainthood among Christians. In the scripture saint is the designation of every believer in Christ. They are saints because they are in Christ. He has cleansed their sin and are clothed them with His righteousness. Christians are set apart for God’s use like the Tabernacle and Temple in the Old Testament. Also holiness speaks of our practice and attitude in our living. Scholars suggest that noun “Saint” speaks of our relationship with Christ. They are set apart for God’s use and the verb sanctify, speaks of our practice. The function of priesthood in the Old Testament was to offer animal sacrifices. They were chosen from the tribe of Levi. The New Testament Church is the holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices unto God (Heb 13:15). It is the privilege of all believers and not some selected few. The Old Testament also speaks about spiritual sacrifices such as sacrifice of praise, sacrifice of righteousness and the sacrifice of prayer (Psalms 50:23; 51:19; 141:2). Peter urges believers to live such a way to show the excellence of the God to others. They are set apart for the glory of God.
Christians should live in a Honorable life: 1 Peter 2:10-11.
In the New Testament we read about many sacrifices. We are exhorted to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God (Rom 12:1). Our faith is referred as a sacrifice in Philippians 2:17. Our material gifts to the Lord is also referred as a fragrant sacrifice (Phil 4:18). Our praise and sharing with others are acceptable sacrifices unto God (Heb 13: 15, 16). Preaching the gospel is a priestly sacrifice (Rom 15:15). We are the chosen people of God. God saved us and made us part of his family (Deut 7:7-8). Christians are the royal priesthood because they are chosen to serve Christ. They should fear the Lord and obey His word. If we remain faithful, we shall reign with Him (2 Tim 2:12). Christians are a holy nation and God’s own people. They are born of God (John 1:13). That is how we become the holy people. Our true identity is weather we belong to Christ of not. He saved us to become zealous for good works (Titus 2:14). Once we were not God’s people but we obtained mercy. When we experience God's mercy, it will always lead to live a new kind of life. Peter sums up here that we should declare the praise of God who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. God in His mercy has saved us to proclaim His praises. Do we proclaim God’s wonderful works in our lives? They are too numerous to be numbered (Psalm 40:5). What a merciful Savior! Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Christians should live Godly Life: 1 Peter 2:12-20.
Peter encourages believers to live a godly life. They should be example to others by loving one another. We live in a fallen world and battle against the flesh (Gal 5:24). So Peter encourages them to keep away from evil desires of the flesh. Paul also exhorts Christians to put on Christ that they make to provision for the flesh to satisfy its carnal desires (Rom 13:14). When we are satisfied with Christ we will not sin. Secondly believers are exhorted to have honorable conduct among gentiles so that they may observe our good conduct and come to Christ. Christians must submit to authority for the Lord’s sake because they are appointed by God (Rom 13:1). The Apostles refused to submit to religious leaders because their order was contrary to the will of God (Act 4:18-20; 5: 29). Peter also exhorts servants to be subject to their masters even if they are not kind and reasonable. This suffering is temporary and God will reward if we endure it patiently. In the end, God will ensure that justice is done. Our good life will silence those who slander us. God rewards them for being faithful to their masters. Christian freedom should not be an excuse to practice evil but to serve others in love. we should show respect for everyone and love fellow believers. Christians are identified by their love for one another (John 13:35). They should fear God and show respect to authority (Matt 10:28).
Follow Christ’s Example: 1 Peter 2:21-25.
Peter exhorts believers that they should be humble and submissive. God's gracious purpose in suffering is that they do not get despair over suffering as if it were God's punishment. Christ himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we do not have to (1 Pet 2:24). It is comforting to know that our suffering is not a sign of God's anger (Rom 8:1). Christ suffered for us, leaving an example for us to follow His steps (1 Pet 2:21). The main purpose of Christ’s suffering was to save us. Even in that suffering He set an example to follow His humility and submission. Christ never sinned and never deceived anyone yet He suffered (Mark 3:21, 22; Matt 26:67). He did not retaliate but patiently endured the unfair treatment of the enemies. Verses 22-24 are quotation from Isaiah 53:4-9. Christ was obedient to His heavenly Father. Christ died on the cross for us so that we might dies to our self and live for righteousness. We have been healed from the sickness of sin by His wounds. This is a picture of our redemption from sin and not our physical healing. We will be ultimately healed and made perfect when Christ returns. Once we all were willfully wandering away from God like lost sheep. Christ the good shepherd has gathered us to Himself. He is our great shepherd and the guardian of our soul. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Are you willing to take up your cross and follow Him? (Matt 10:38).
Chapter 3
Christian’s Life at Home: 1 Peter 3:1-7.
Peter gives instruction about Christians behavior in their immediate society including their home (2:11-3:12). Peter emphases the importance of humility and submission at home. Christian wives should trust God and accept the authority of their husbands. Peter does not say that women are inferior to obey their husbands. In Creation, God has given to man the place of headship. It is a divine order. Also the relationship between husband and wife is a picture of the relationship between Christ and the church (Eph 5:24). A born again person has already submitted to God through Christ. Likewise a wife who submits to the authority of husband will be a living testimony to her husband and society. The unsaved husband will be impressed by her godly conduct and be drawn to Christ’s saving grace. Her beauty is primarily is not in her outward beauty such as clothes and jewelry, but in her gentle and quiet spirit (1 Pet 3:3, 4). Women are constantly drawn to their appearances and beauty. God is interested in the quality of their hearts. She should let God to work from her inside out, resulting humility, modesty and submission. They are precious virtues in God’s sight. Peter turns to the Old Testament women to support his teaching. Sarah was submissive to her own husband. She respected her husband and called Abraham lord. As Abraham was the father of faithful, so Sarah is the mother of the faithful women. When wives live in submission they become daughters of Sarah and do not have to afraid of their husbands. Husbands must give honor to their wives and understand that women are weaker vessel. Husband is the head of the family. He should treat his wife with understanding and respect. Wife may be weak physically and dependent on husband. But in most cases they are more devoted to Christ than husband. Wife is also the heir of the grace of eternal life with her husband. When husband does not give honor to wife, their prayers will be hindered. Being head of the family, husbands have much greater responsibility than wives. When wives submit to husbands and husbands honor the wives, homes are blessed. The godly womanhood must flow from the heart.
Christian Virtues: 1 Peter 3:8-12.
This is the end and summery of the section that deals with Christian behavior in humility and submission (2:11-3:12). Many people think that having enough money, freedom and good relationship, every thing will be fine. But Christian life begins with a personal relationship with Christ and it is practical. Believers must have unity of mind. It is the unity produced and maintained by the Holy Spirit. It is not an organizational unity (Eph 4:3). When we live in unity, God is glorified (Rom 15:5, 6). Sympathy or compassion for one another is another virtue. The idea here is when one suffers all suffer (1 Cor 12:26). It will fortify Christians to face suffering together. We are called to maintain brotherly love among us. Christians are identified by their love for one another. We belong to God’s family, so we love one another. This love is lacking among God’s people today. Love covers multitude of sins (1 Pet 4:8). Sympathy feels the pain of others and tenderhearted people help each other. God is tenderhearted and merciful (Rom 12:1). Also Christians must have a humble attitude. We are exhorted to put on this virtue of Christ (Col 3:12). Humble people are teachable (Matt 11:28-30). If we have these virtues we will not retaliate when people hurt us. Instead we must bless them that we may be blessed. Verses 10-12 are a poem quoted from Psalm 34:13-17. Those who want to be blessed of God turn away from evil and pursue peace. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.
Christian’s Attitude towards Suffering: 1 Peter 3:13-17.
Christians are saved by the grace of God. They are also sanctified by God’s grace. Grace enables them to summit to authority. Peter also explains that God gives them grace in suffering. In fact it is a privilege to suffer for Christ's sake (Phil 1:29; 1 Pet 2:20). Blessed are those who are persecuted for the righteousness sake (Matt 5:10). Lord will watch over them and His ears are opened to their prayers. He will judge those who do evil (1 Pet 3:12). If God is for us who can be against us? (Rom 8:31). We must honor Christ as Lord in our hearts and always prepared to give a defense to anyone who asks us a reason for the hope that is in us with respect and gentleness (3:15). This must be our attitude towards people and God. There is more heat in argument than light. Here Peter suggests that suffering may be an opportunity to testify the saving grace of God. We should not return evil for evil because we have a living hope. Christian hope is not a wishful thinking but the confident expectation in the return of Christ. That was the theme of the apostolic preaching. Paul was not ashamed to defend his faith in Christ (Acts 23, 24, 25, 26). It is better to suffer for doing good than to retaliate (3:17). If we have a clear conscience and do what is good, those who speak against us will be put to shame. Conscience is a gracious gift from God to convicts us of our sin and to helps us in our walk with God (Rom 2:15; John 8:9). Good conscience is the result of confessing our sins and forsaking them (Psalms 24:3-4; 1 John 1:9)). When we have a clear conscience toward God, we will have a dynamic testimony and our ministry would be fruitful.
Christ’s Sufferings for us: 1 Peter 3:18-22.
Peter gives the summary of the work of Christ on our behalf. When Christ died on the cross, He paid the atonement for our sin. Christ the righteous suffered for the unrighteous. So Christians must suffer for doing what is good. Christ sets an example for us to follow. The one who was righteous and sinless suffered for our sins. His suffering was the redemptive act of love and grace. It was necessary to reconcile us to God. His blood was the atonement for our sins. Jesus paid the penalty for sins as a substitute in our place. Christ suffered at the hands of the wicked men. He died in the flesh and made alive in Spirit. His resurrection is the proof that the Father has accepted his sacrifice (1 Pet 1:3, 21). All our blessings flow from Christ's death on the cross. The same Holy Spirit who raised Christ from the dead had enabled Him to preach the good news to the men of Noah’s day through Noah himself. Only eight people who believed were saved. Some scholars suggest that in some point the risen Christ proclaimed His victory and the coming judgment to the spirits in prison. Water baptism is a picture of what Christ has done for our salvation and our identification with Him (3:21). The baptism will not save us. It is a pledge that demonstrates we are saved. It also gives us a good conscience of obeying the Lord’s command (Matt 28:19). Christ’s resurrection and ascension declare His glory and power over everything. Angels and authorities are subjected to Him (Col 2:15). Glorified Christ is now seated at the right of God. This is the place of honor next to the Father as our King and High Priest. He is our victorious Savior. So we do not have to fear the terrors of the enemy. Pray that God would help you to have a greater appreciation of what Christ has done for you.
Peter gives instruction about Christians behavior in their immediate society including their home (2:11-3:12). Peter emphases the importance of humility and submission at home. Christian wives should trust God and accept the authority of their husbands. Peter does not say that women are inferior to obey their husbands. In Creation, God has given to man the place of headship. It is a divine order. Also the relationship between husband and wife is a picture of the relationship between Christ and the church (Eph 5:24). A born again person has already submitted to God through Christ. Likewise a wife who submits to the authority of husband will be a living testimony to her husband and society. The unsaved husband will be impressed by her godly conduct and be drawn to Christ’s saving grace. Her beauty is primarily is not in her outward beauty such as clothes and jewelry, but in her gentle and quiet spirit (1 Pet 3:3, 4). Women are constantly drawn to their appearances and beauty. God is interested in the quality of their hearts. She should let God to work from her inside out, resulting humility, modesty and submission. They are precious virtues in God’s sight. Peter turns to the Old Testament women to support his teaching. Sarah was submissive to her own husband. She respected her husband and called Abraham lord. As Abraham was the father of faithful, so Sarah is the mother of the faithful women. When wives live in submission they become daughters of Sarah and do not have to afraid of their husbands. Husbands must give honor to their wives and understand that women are weaker vessel. Husband is the head of the family. He should treat his wife with understanding and respect. Wife may be weak physically and dependent on husband. But in most cases they are more devoted to Christ than husband. Wife is also the heir of the grace of eternal life with her husband. When husband does not give honor to wife, their prayers will be hindered. Being head of the family, husbands have much greater responsibility than wives. When wives submit to husbands and husbands honor the wives, homes are blessed. The godly womanhood must flow from the heart.
Christian Virtues: 1 Peter 3:8-12.
This is the end and summery of the section that deals with Christian behavior in humility and submission (2:11-3:12). Many people think that having enough money, freedom and good relationship, every thing will be fine. But Christian life begins with a personal relationship with Christ and it is practical. Believers must have unity of mind. It is the unity produced and maintained by the Holy Spirit. It is not an organizational unity (Eph 4:3). When we live in unity, God is glorified (Rom 15:5, 6). Sympathy or compassion for one another is another virtue. The idea here is when one suffers all suffer (1 Cor 12:26). It will fortify Christians to face suffering together. We are called to maintain brotherly love among us. Christians are identified by their love for one another. We belong to God’s family, so we love one another. This love is lacking among God’s people today. Love covers multitude of sins (1 Pet 4:8). Sympathy feels the pain of others and tenderhearted people help each other. God is tenderhearted and merciful (Rom 12:1). Also Christians must have a humble attitude. We are exhorted to put on this virtue of Christ (Col 3:12). Humble people are teachable (Matt 11:28-30). If we have these virtues we will not retaliate when people hurt us. Instead we must bless them that we may be blessed. Verses 10-12 are a poem quoted from Psalm 34:13-17. Those who want to be blessed of God turn away from evil and pursue peace. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.
Christian’s Attitude towards Suffering: 1 Peter 3:13-17.
Christians are saved by the grace of God. They are also sanctified by God’s grace. Grace enables them to summit to authority. Peter also explains that God gives them grace in suffering. In fact it is a privilege to suffer for Christ's sake (Phil 1:29; 1 Pet 2:20). Blessed are those who are persecuted for the righteousness sake (Matt 5:10). Lord will watch over them and His ears are opened to their prayers. He will judge those who do evil (1 Pet 3:12). If God is for us who can be against us? (Rom 8:31). We must honor Christ as Lord in our hearts and always prepared to give a defense to anyone who asks us a reason for the hope that is in us with respect and gentleness (3:15). This must be our attitude towards people and God. There is more heat in argument than light. Here Peter suggests that suffering may be an opportunity to testify the saving grace of God. We should not return evil for evil because we have a living hope. Christian hope is not a wishful thinking but the confident expectation in the return of Christ. That was the theme of the apostolic preaching. Paul was not ashamed to defend his faith in Christ (Acts 23, 24, 25, 26). It is better to suffer for doing good than to retaliate (3:17). If we have a clear conscience and do what is good, those who speak against us will be put to shame. Conscience is a gracious gift from God to convicts us of our sin and to helps us in our walk with God (Rom 2:15; John 8:9). Good conscience is the result of confessing our sins and forsaking them (Psalms 24:3-4; 1 John 1:9)). When we have a clear conscience toward God, we will have a dynamic testimony and our ministry would be fruitful.
Christ’s Sufferings for us: 1 Peter 3:18-22.
Peter gives the summary of the work of Christ on our behalf. When Christ died on the cross, He paid the atonement for our sin. Christ the righteous suffered for the unrighteous. So Christians must suffer for doing what is good. Christ sets an example for us to follow. The one who was righteous and sinless suffered for our sins. His suffering was the redemptive act of love and grace. It was necessary to reconcile us to God. His blood was the atonement for our sins. Jesus paid the penalty for sins as a substitute in our place. Christ suffered at the hands of the wicked men. He died in the flesh and made alive in Spirit. His resurrection is the proof that the Father has accepted his sacrifice (1 Pet 1:3, 21). All our blessings flow from Christ's death on the cross. The same Holy Spirit who raised Christ from the dead had enabled Him to preach the good news to the men of Noah’s day through Noah himself. Only eight people who believed were saved. Some scholars suggest that in some point the risen Christ proclaimed His victory and the coming judgment to the spirits in prison. Water baptism is a picture of what Christ has done for our salvation and our identification with Him (3:21). The baptism will not save us. It is a pledge that demonstrates we are saved. It also gives us a good conscience of obeying the Lord’s command (Matt 28:19). Christ’s resurrection and ascension declare His glory and power over everything. Angels and authorities are subjected to Him (Col 2:15). Glorified Christ is now seated at the right of God. This is the place of honor next to the Father as our King and High Priest. He is our victorious Savior. So we do not have to fear the terrors of the enemy. Pray that God would help you to have a greater appreciation of what Christ has done for you.
Chapter 4
Christ’s Example in Suffering: 1 Peter 4:1-11
Peter encourages believers to have the same attitude Christ had when He suffered. To suffer for the gospel is to follow in the footsteps of the suffering of Christ. He suffered at the hand of sinful men in order to accomplish our salvation. We must think about Christ rather than on our human passion so that we may not grow weary and become fainthearted in sufferings (Heb 12:3). Christ’s suffering ended at His death and entered into glory. Likewise Christians should live no longer for their lustful passion but to do the will of God. They have been saved to live a godly life. While suffering may not eliminate every sin in our lives, godly priority can be established in life. Only in the gospel of grace we have the power to live for Christ. No wonder that their former friends are surprised when Christians no longer live in sin. Unbelievers do not understand this so they slander Christians. Christian life is a life that shuns sin and delights in Christ. One day unbelievers have to give an account of their sins before Christ who will judge the living and the dead. If we are willing to endure suffering for Christ, we shall reign with Him (2 Tim 2:12). Unbelievers are under condemnation and have judged themselves worthy of death. They need to hear the gospel to get saved. Verse 6 does not teach that men have a second chance to get saved after death. People have the opportunity to get saved while they are still alive (Heb 9:27). Unfortunately evangelism has taken a back seat among Christians today. The end of the world is at hand, opportunities will be lost and souls are at stake. So Peter encourages Christians to be earnest in self control, in prayer, fervent in love, hospitable and use their spiritual gifts to serve one another so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. If we have true love for others, their shortcomings will not be remembered but be forgiven (1 Pet 4:8). The key to loving others is to first see the love of Christ for us (Eph 4:32). Are you thankful for God's great love toward you?
Fiery Trials in Christian Life: 1 Peter 4:12-15.
Christians are the beloved people of God. Yet they face trials in their lives. Peter encourages them that they should not be surprised when they go through fiery trials. Some suffer for their own sins and there is no virtue in such suffering. Others suffer for righteousness sake. Christ’s suffering was redemptive. He willingly endured it to save us from sin. Sometime God allows fiery trial in Christian life to cleanse us from our sins and slumber. We should be glad in fiery trial because it makes us partners in Christ’s suffering and we will receive glory when He returns. Christ was not ashamed of us when He died on the cross. Christians should not consider it strange to suffer for Christ’s name sake. Suffering and curse are the result of sin (Gen 3:16, 17). Christ told His disciples that they will be persecuted for His name sake (John 15:20, 21; 16:33). Christians are not exempted from suffering (Phil 1:29). We also should rejoice when we are insulted for the name of Christ (Acts 5:41). Christ has promised His presence and protection in our trials (John 14:18, 26). He is the only Savior (Matt 1:21; Acts 4:12). There is power in His name (Acts 4:10). One day at His name every knees shall bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord (Phil 2:10).
Trust the Lord in Suffering: 1 Peter 4:16-19.
Christians have to enter into the kingdom of God through much sufferings (Acts 14:22). Suffering of our own making will not bring glory to God. It is a privilege to suffer for being Christians. The name “Christian” is mentioned only three times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pet 4:16). It means "Christ's ones". They belong to Christ. This name was used as a derogatory title for the disciples. Just being a Christian was punishable by death at that time. For the time has come for judgment to begin in the house of God (1 Pet 4:17). Here Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31. God judges His people for their sins before He judges nations for their sins (Jeremiah 25:15). God does allow suffering to refine the church and make us spiritually mature (Malachi 3:3). Someone has said “A faith that is not tested cannot be trusted”. If the righteous are refined for their sins, it is inevitable that the wicked will be judged for their sins. Christians should demonstrate their freedom from judgment by doing God's will (4:19). Peter exhorts us to face suffering with boldness in a manner that is pleasing to God. In fiery trials we are encouraged to entrust our lives to our faithful Savior.
Peter encourages believers to have the same attitude Christ had when He suffered. To suffer for the gospel is to follow in the footsteps of the suffering of Christ. He suffered at the hand of sinful men in order to accomplish our salvation. We must think about Christ rather than on our human passion so that we may not grow weary and become fainthearted in sufferings (Heb 12:3). Christ’s suffering ended at His death and entered into glory. Likewise Christians should live no longer for their lustful passion but to do the will of God. They have been saved to live a godly life. While suffering may not eliminate every sin in our lives, godly priority can be established in life. Only in the gospel of grace we have the power to live for Christ. No wonder that their former friends are surprised when Christians no longer live in sin. Unbelievers do not understand this so they slander Christians. Christian life is a life that shuns sin and delights in Christ. One day unbelievers have to give an account of their sins before Christ who will judge the living and the dead. If we are willing to endure suffering for Christ, we shall reign with Him (2 Tim 2:12). Unbelievers are under condemnation and have judged themselves worthy of death. They need to hear the gospel to get saved. Verse 6 does not teach that men have a second chance to get saved after death. People have the opportunity to get saved while they are still alive (Heb 9:27). Unfortunately evangelism has taken a back seat among Christians today. The end of the world is at hand, opportunities will be lost and souls are at stake. So Peter encourages Christians to be earnest in self control, in prayer, fervent in love, hospitable and use their spiritual gifts to serve one another so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. If we have true love for others, their shortcomings will not be remembered but be forgiven (1 Pet 4:8). The key to loving others is to first see the love of Christ for us (Eph 4:32). Are you thankful for God's great love toward you?
Fiery Trials in Christian Life: 1 Peter 4:12-15.
Christians are the beloved people of God. Yet they face trials in their lives. Peter encourages them that they should not be surprised when they go through fiery trials. Some suffer for their own sins and there is no virtue in such suffering. Others suffer for righteousness sake. Christ’s suffering was redemptive. He willingly endured it to save us from sin. Sometime God allows fiery trial in Christian life to cleanse us from our sins and slumber. We should be glad in fiery trial because it makes us partners in Christ’s suffering and we will receive glory when He returns. Christ was not ashamed of us when He died on the cross. Christians should not consider it strange to suffer for Christ’s name sake. Suffering and curse are the result of sin (Gen 3:16, 17). Christ told His disciples that they will be persecuted for His name sake (John 15:20, 21; 16:33). Christians are not exempted from suffering (Phil 1:29). We also should rejoice when we are insulted for the name of Christ (Acts 5:41). Christ has promised His presence and protection in our trials (John 14:18, 26). He is the only Savior (Matt 1:21; Acts 4:12). There is power in His name (Acts 4:10). One day at His name every knees shall bow and every tongue will confess that He is Lord (Phil 2:10).
Trust the Lord in Suffering: 1 Peter 4:16-19.
Christians have to enter into the kingdom of God through much sufferings (Acts 14:22). Suffering of our own making will not bring glory to God. It is a privilege to suffer for being Christians. The name “Christian” is mentioned only three times in the New Testament (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Pet 4:16). It means "Christ's ones". They belong to Christ. This name was used as a derogatory title for the disciples. Just being a Christian was punishable by death at that time. For the time has come for judgment to begin in the house of God (1 Pet 4:17). Here Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31. God judges His people for their sins before He judges nations for their sins (Jeremiah 25:15). God does allow suffering to refine the church and make us spiritually mature (Malachi 3:3). Someone has said “A faith that is not tested cannot be trusted”. If the righteous are refined for their sins, it is inevitable that the wicked will be judged for their sins. Christians should demonstrate their freedom from judgment by doing God's will (4:19). Peter exhorts us to face suffering with boldness in a manner that is pleasing to God. In fiery trials we are encouraged to entrust our lives to our faithful Savior.
Chapter 5
Exhortation to the Elders: 1 Peter 5:1-4.
Peter has a special exhortation for the spiritual leadership in the local churches. He identifies himself as a witness of Christ's sufferings. This gives him authority to instruct church leaders. Elders were divinely appointed by the Lord and by the apostles in the early church (Acts 14: 23; Titus 1:5). Christians were going through suffering and the church was in need of godly leadership. They are interchangeably called elders, overseers and bishops in the New Testament (Act 20:17, 28; Phil 1:2). The qualifications of the elder are given in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. Peter was a fellow elder, serving the church along with other elders. Elders are entrusted with the flock of God to watch over them by feeding, leading and protecting them from the enemy. They should serve believers not under compulsion but willingly. Do not lord over the believers but lead them being example to them (Acts 20:19, 20; Luke 22:26). Elder must do everything for the glory of God. Peter reminds Elders of their reward (5:4). The chief shepherd gives the crown of glory to those who serve with selfless leadership (5:4 ). The crowns may be the capacity of believers to enjoy God and worship him eternally in heaven. The power to obey the chief shepherd come from looking back to Jesus sacrifice and looking forward to his return. God's grace enables them to live, serve and lead God's people.
Exhortation to the Church: 1 Peter 5:5-11.
Likewise younger people should summit to elders and serve each other in humility. Elders are divinely appointed to have authority over the church and they are accountable to God. So believers must accept their authority in the church. Humility is assuming the proper role in relationship to one another in the church. It does not mean lack of confidence or low self-image. Peter quotes Proverbs 3:34 to prove his point here. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”. There is no greater blessing than receiving God’s grace (James 4:6, 7). So we are exhorted to remain humble under the mighty hand of God to receive His grace. God will exalt you at the right time. No one can snatch us away from the hand of Christ (John 10:28). Cast all our cares and worries on Christ because he cares for us. Those who are humble will receive grace for every situation from the Lord. Be sober minded and watchful because your adversary, the devil like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Satan is our enemy, deceiver and accuser of the brethren (Rev 12:11; 2 Cor 11:3). He can counterfeit himself as an angel of light (2 Cor 11:14). Satan cannot torment us without God’s permission (Job 1:12). We are no match for Satan. Resist the devil and stand firm because you are not alone. Your Christians brothers throughout the world share the same struggle with you (5:9). Summit to God and resist the Devil, he will flee from you (James 4:7; Eph 6: 11). Satan is a defeated enemy. We should not be afraid of this roaring lion. At that time Christians were enduring severe persecution throughout the world. Peter encourages them to look to God for His sustaining grace. God of all grace is able to restore, support, strengthen and establish them. His exceedingly great power that works in us is able to make us perfect in His sight (Eph 1:19; 3:20). Suffering is the steppingstone to heavenly glory.
Peter has a special exhortation for the spiritual leadership in the local churches. He identifies himself as a witness of Christ's sufferings. This gives him authority to instruct church leaders. Elders were divinely appointed by the Lord and by the apostles in the early church (Acts 14: 23; Titus 1:5). Christians were going through suffering and the church was in need of godly leadership. They are interchangeably called elders, overseers and bishops in the New Testament (Act 20:17, 28; Phil 1:2). The qualifications of the elder are given in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9. Peter was a fellow elder, serving the church along with other elders. Elders are entrusted with the flock of God to watch over them by feeding, leading and protecting them from the enemy. They should serve believers not under compulsion but willingly. Do not lord over the believers but lead them being example to them (Acts 20:19, 20; Luke 22:26). Elder must do everything for the glory of God. Peter reminds Elders of their reward (5:4). The chief shepherd gives the crown of glory to those who serve with selfless leadership (5:4 ). The crowns may be the capacity of believers to enjoy God and worship him eternally in heaven. The power to obey the chief shepherd come from looking back to Jesus sacrifice and looking forward to his return. God's grace enables them to live, serve and lead God's people.
Exhortation to the Church: 1 Peter 5:5-11.
Likewise younger people should summit to elders and serve each other in humility. Elders are divinely appointed to have authority over the church and they are accountable to God. So believers must accept their authority in the church. Humility is assuming the proper role in relationship to one another in the church. It does not mean lack of confidence or low self-image. Peter quotes Proverbs 3:34 to prove his point here. “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble”. There is no greater blessing than receiving God’s grace (James 4:6, 7). So we are exhorted to remain humble under the mighty hand of God to receive His grace. God will exalt you at the right time. No one can snatch us away from the hand of Christ (John 10:28). Cast all our cares and worries on Christ because he cares for us. Those who are humble will receive grace for every situation from the Lord. Be sober minded and watchful because your adversary, the devil like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Satan is our enemy, deceiver and accuser of the brethren (Rev 12:11; 2 Cor 11:3). He can counterfeit himself as an angel of light (2 Cor 11:14). Satan cannot torment us without God’s permission (Job 1:12). We are no match for Satan. Resist the devil and stand firm because you are not alone. Your Christians brothers throughout the world share the same struggle with you (5:9). Summit to God and resist the Devil, he will flee from you (James 4:7; Eph 6: 11). Satan is a defeated enemy. We should not be afraid of this roaring lion. At that time Christians were enduring severe persecution throughout the world. Peter encourages them to look to God for His sustaining grace. God of all grace is able to restore, support, strengthen and establish them. His exceedingly great power that works in us is able to make us perfect in His sight (Eph 1:19; 3:20). Suffering is the steppingstone to heavenly glory.
Conclusion
Final Greetings and Conclusion: 1 Peter 5:12-14.
Peter wrote this letter with the help of Silas, a faithful brother in Christ (Acts 15:22). The purpose of writing this letter was to encourage and testify believers that this is the true grace of God. Since they have received God’s grace and truth they should stand firm in the faith in the midst of suffering. The Lord is able to restore and secure us to himself by His power. Peter sends greetings from the sister church in Rome and from fellow servant Mark (Acts 12:25). Peter concludes the letter by encouraging believers to greet each other with Christian love. He wishes them peace from Christ. May God bless my readers. Amen!
Peter wrote this letter with the help of Silas, a faithful brother in Christ (Acts 15:22). The purpose of writing this letter was to encourage and testify believers that this is the true grace of God. Since they have received God’s grace and truth they should stand firm in the faith in the midst of suffering. The Lord is able to restore and secure us to himself by His power. Peter sends greetings from the sister church in Rome and from fellow servant Mark (Acts 12:25). Peter concludes the letter by encouraging believers to greet each other with Christian love. He wishes them peace from Christ. May God bless my readers. Amen!
