Category Archives: Inspired Message

In his second inspired letter the Apostle Peter tells the followers of Christ that they will receive grace and peace through having a full knowledge of Jesus. If we want peace we must know who Jesus is. Who is Jesus? Peter identifies him as God, Savior, Christ, Lord and Master. But the knowledge Peter writes about is far more than a mental acknowledgment of who Jesus is. For example, if we truly know that Jesus is the Christ, then we will also know that God anointed Him to be our high priest and will present our petitions to God in Jesus’ name. If we truly know that Jesus is the Master, then we will also know that we are his servants and will obey him.

A true knowledge of Jesus not only places us under obligation to obey, but grants us unparalleled blessings. In chapter 1, verses 3 through 4 Peter writes. “seeing that his divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and virtue; by which he has granted to us his precious and exceedingly great promises; that through these you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.”

Jesus possesses divine power because, as Peter had already said in verse 2, he is Lord. It is because of this power that He is able to grant everything that pertains to life and godliness. It is not entirely clear whether Peter means that Jesus will provide everything that we need for living as well as godliness, or whether he means that Jesus will provide everything we need in order live a godly life. In either case Peter says that Jesus provides all things. This means that His provision is complete. We do not need to look elsewhere, or to someone else, to meet our needs. But the fact is that we often feel that we have not been given everything that pertains to life and godliness. We often feel that we lack the things we need. Not all of our desires are fulfilled. Since this is so, how can Peter say that Jesus provides all things? The answer to this is found when we look at how Jesus provides. Peter writes that Jesus provides through our knowledge of Him. Jesus provides in proportion to our knowledge of Him. If we feel that we are lacking the things that are needed in our lives then we do not yet know Jesus as we ought to know Him. The more we rely on Jesus, the more He will enable us to face any situation. In view of this the Apostle Paul wrote, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

It is important to understand that God never promises that the followers of Jesus will have a life free of trouble. That is not His purpose. Peter writes that his purpose is that we “…may become partakers of the divine nature…” The more we know Jesus, the more we will want to be like Him. And it is to fulfill this purpose that Jesus provides all things. The Apostle Paul wrote, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose. For whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…” (Romans 8:28-29) No matter whether we have little or much, whether we face adversity or not, God provides exactly what we need to make us more like Jesus. And it is in this sense that Jesus provides everything we need pertaining to life and godliness.

Peter writes that the followers of Jesus are called. But why are they called? Is it because of their goodness? No. Peter makes it very clear that Jesus calls us not because we are good, but because He is. There are many who think that they can earn their salvation by the good deeds that they do. But this is not the case. None of us can meet the standards that God requires. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “…all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God;” (Romans 3:23) We do not earn our salvation. It is Jesus’ gift to us which he grants as a result of His goodness.

But Jesus is not the only one who calls. Peter contrasts the call of Jesus to that of the world. In using the word ‘world’ Peter is not merely speaking of the earth on which we live. He is using the word in a spiritual sense as well because he speaks of the lusts that is, evil desires, which are in the world. Peter’s meaning becomes even more clear when we look at how the Apostle John used these words. He wrote, “Don’t love the world, neither the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love isn’t in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, isn’t the Father’s, but is the world’s.” (I John 2:15-16)

Both the call of Jesus and the call of the world are accompanied by promises. Peter points out in chapter 2 of this letter that one of the enticements of the world’s call is pleasure. And, at least to a certain degree, the world can fulfill this promise. But Peter also points out that this pleasure is temporary and carries a heavy price. The world’s call also makes the false promise of providing freedom. In chapter 2, verse 19 Peter writes concerning false prophets, they entice by, “promising them liberty, while they themselves are bondservants of corruption; for a man is brought into bondage by whoever overcomes him.”

In contrast to the promises of the world, Peter says that the promises of Jesus are “precious and exceedingly great.” In chapter 3, verse 13 he tells us what these promises are. He writes, “But, according to his promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.”

What are the consequences of obeying the two calls? Peter says that listening to the call of the world leads to slavery and corruption. On the other hand, putting our trust in the promises of Jesus allows us to escape from the world’s corruption and to participate in the divine nature.

Each one of us must decide which call to obey. Will we respond to the call of Jesus, or will we respond to the call of the world? But Peter is writing to those who are followers of Jesus. Why is it necessary for Peter to say these things to them? Haven’t they already obeyed Jesus’ call by becoming his followers? The answer is that it is possible for us to be ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of Jesus.

The Apostle Peter wrote his inspired letters so that those who read them might be able to reason in a pure way. The basic premise of Peter’s second inspired letter is that uncorrupted thought depends upon having a correct view of who Jesus is. If we have a proper understanding of Jesus and accept His authority over us, then our eternal destiny is secure. If, on the other hand we reject Jesus’ position we will fall into error. We will fall prey to false teaching and will misunderstand God’s promises. This in turn, will lead to our destruction. In view of this, who is Jesus? What does Peter say about Him? In chapter 1, verses 1 and 2 Peter writes, “Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have obtained a like precious faith with us in the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,” In this brief greeting Peter says a great deal about who Jesus is.

Peter calls himself a servant of Jesus. If Peter is a slave then Jesus is the master. How did Jesus become the master? In chapter 2 verse 1 Peter indicates that Jesus has become the master of those who follow Him by purchasing them. But from whom or what did Jesus purchase them? Peter provides the answer when he writes in chapter 2, verse 19, “…for a man is brought into bondage by whoever overcomes him.” We have all allowed sin to master us and therefore we became slaves to sin. But Jesus paid the price to purchase us from sin. He gives us the freedom to choose whether we will remain slaves of sin or will enter His service. In writing to the followers of Christ the Apostle Paul explains it this way, “…whereas you were bondservants of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching whereunto you were delivered. Being made free from sin, you became bondservants of righteousness.” (Romans 6:17-18) What was the purchase price for our freedom from sin? Scripture says about Jesus, “…you were killed, and bought us for God with your blood, out of every tribe, language, people, and nation,” (Revelation 5:9)

It is because Jesus frees from the bondage of sin that Peter also calls him the Savior. Paul writes about God, “who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of his love; in whom we have our redemption, the forgiveness of our sins.” (Colossians 1:13-14)

Another title that Peter uses for Jesus is Christ, that is, the Anointed One. The Jewish national and spiritual leaders were appointed by anointing them with oil. Also, the Jewish prophets had predicted that one day God would anoint a great leader. For example it says in Psalms, “The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers take counsel together, against Yahweh, [that is, the Lord] and against his Anointed.” (Psalm 2:2) The promise of the coming Messiah was fulfilled in Jesus. God Himself anointed Jesus. The Scripture says, “…God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power…” (Acts 10:38) But what position did God’s anointing give Jesus? The first position Jesus received as a result of his anointing is that of prophet. The work of a prophet is to deliver God’s message. Jesus said, “…I do nothing of myself, but as my Father taught me, I say these things.” (John 8:28) Jesus was also anointed to be high priest. The priest’s role is to offer sacrifices on behalf of sinners and to present the people’s requests before God. Jesus does both of these things. He sacrificed His own sinless life on our behalf and He presents our petitions before God. Scripture says, “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all; the testimony in its own times;” (1 Timothy 2:5-6) A third position which Jesus has been given is that of king. Jesus said, “…All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.” (Matthew 28:18) To summarize, when we give Jesus the title “Christ” we are acknowledging that he is prophet, priest and king.

It is because of the authority that Jesus has as king, both on earth and in heaven, that Peter also calls him Lord. But this raises a question. The word that Peter uses means ‘divine ruler.’ How can any man, even the sinless Jesus, be divine? Peter answers this question, and at the same time presents us with a greater difficulty, when he writes, “…in the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ…” (1:1) In this phrase Peter very clearly calls Jesus ‘God.’ Scripture also says, “For in him all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily…” (Colossians 2:9) In another place it says about Jesus, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.” (John 1:1-2) From this we see that according to Scripture, Jesus is not a created being as are other men, but is eternally coexistent with God. Jesus Himself said, “…He who has seen me has seen the Father…” (John 14:9) and “I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30) Since Jesus refers to God as the ‘Father’ in these passages, it is appropriate to mention that Jesus is called the ‘Son’ in verse 17 of Peter’s second letter. It is important to understand that the title ‘Son’ describes a spiritual relationship rather than a physical one. To say that Jesus is God’s son in a physical sense is blasphemy. Scripture calls Jesus the Son of God for three reasons: 1) He did not have an earthly father. 2) His life was a perfect demonstration of God’s character. 3) Jesus’ own testimony. For example he said to the Jews, “It is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say that he is our God.” (John 8:54) If we are going to accept Jesus as a prophet then we must also accept His testimony about Himself.

Though Peter calls Jesus ‘God’ in verse 1, he makes a distinction between them in verse 2. He says, “Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord,” Does this means that the followers of Christ believe in two gods? No! Absolutely not. Let us be very clear about this. From the very beginning to the very end the Holy Scriptures make it plain that there is only one God. Nor do the followers of Christ try to divide God, or to place someone else alongside of him. God is, and will always remain, One. But if God is One, then how can Jesus and the Father both be considered God? When asked about this, the followers of Christ will freely admit that this is something they do not fully understand. How can the creature fully comprehend the One who created him? It is not our place to argue with God, but to humbly accept what He has revealed about Himself through His word. The Scriptures say that God came down to earth in the form of Jesus in order to save the creatures He had made from the consequences of their own sin.

As people get older they begin to think about what kind of heritage they will leave for the generations that will follow. As death draws near there is time only to pass on those things which are of most importance. Things of lessor significance are set aside so that what is most important will not be left undone. The Apostle Peter wrote his second inspired letter very near the end of his life. In order to understand what he wrote we should keep this fact in mind. The message contained in this letter to the followers of Christ is what Peter considered the most important of all.

But why was it necessary for Peter to write this letter? One reason is that the followers of Jesus would be able to remember Peter’s teaching. In chapter 1, verse 14 he says that Christ had revealed to him that his death was near. He would no longer be able to teach the people in person. It is for this reason he says in verse 15, “…I will make every effort that you may always be able to remember these things even after my departure.”

Another reason for writing down this message was so that it would reach a wider audience. There is a limit to how much one man can do in person. But his ministry can continue and spread through the written word. In his first inspired letter Peter had written specifically to Jesus’ followers in the area which is now in the country of Turkey. But his second inspired letter is addressed to all who believe in Christ.

Peter tells us the primary reason for writing this letter in chapter 3, verse 1. He says, “This is now, beloved, the second letter that I have written to you; and in both of them I stir up your sincere mind…” Perhaps a better translation would be, “to stimulate you to wholesome thinking.” (NIV) In other words Peter desires the reasoning of the readers of his letters to be pure and wholesome. How can our thoughts be wholesome? Peter bases the entire argument of his second inspired letter on how we view the person of Jesus Christ. Are we willing to accept Jesus for who He is, or will we deny His position and authority?

But before going forward we need to remind ourselves of who Peter is. He begins his letter with these words: “Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ…” Peter’s birth name was Simon. This was a very common name. Several people with the name of Simon are mentioned in Scripture. In fact one of the other Apostles was also named Simon. But there can be no confusion about who wrote this letter because the author introduces himself as Simon Peter. Peter is the name which was given to him by Christ. It is this name which distinguishes him from every other Simon. He is writing as one whose life has been changed by Jesus. Peter also calls himself an Apostle of Jesus Christ. This title establishes Peter’s authority to write this letter. Jesus chose certain of his disciples as his Apostles for a very special task. He told them, “…You will be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) While reading this letter it is very important to remember that though the words are Peter’s, the message is in reality from Christ.

In his first inspired letter Peter had also written as an Apostle, but in this second letter he calls himself the slave of Christ as well. In chapter 2 Peter says that false teachers deny the Master, that is Jesus, who bought them. Peter is saying that his message is trustworthy not only because he is an Apostle, but because he is a slave of Christ. He is not writing on his own authority but that of his Master. On the other hand, a teacher who denies that Jesus is his Master is proclaiming a false message.

Peter writes, “to those who have obtained a like precious faith with us in the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” (1:1-2)

We can learn several things from this greeting. One is that Peter is writing to the followers of Christ. If we are not willing to submit ourselves to Christ then the assurance and encouragement Peter gives to the readers of this letter are not for us.

Another thing we can learn is that all of the followers of Christ are equal before God. People classify one another according to such things as ethnic background, social class, economic status and amount of education. But Peter does not look at any of these things. Nor does he make any distinction between those who knew Jesus personally and those who only heard about Him through the preaching of others. Only one thing is of importance: Have we received faith through Jesus Christ? Or have we not? The Apostle Paul puts it this way, “For you are all children of God, through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:26-28)

Peter says that faith is precious. It is precious in at least two ways. The first is that Jesus gave up His life for us so that through faith in Him we might have eternal life. What could be more precious than eternal life? Secondly, faith in Christ is the only means by which we can stand before God. We should be willing to give up everything else in order to retain our faith. It is worth noting that Peter says that we obtain this faith through the righteousness of Christ. There are many people who think that their own righteousness will make them acceptable to God. But this is not so. As the prophet Isaiah wrote “…all our righteousness is as a polluted garment…” (Isaiah 64:6) If we want to be pleasing to God we must depend on the righteousness of Christ.

Peter closes his greeting by praying that his readers enjoy grace and peace in abundance. But Peter says that grace and peace come in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. What Peter is saying is that the more we know Jesus, the more grace and peace we will enjoy. In light of this it is important for each one of us to ask ourselves, “Do I know who Jesus is?”

The Apostle Peter closes his first inspired letter with the following words, “Through Silvanus, our faithful brother, as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand [NIV “Stand fast in it”]. She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, greets you; and so does Mark, my son. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace be to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.” (5:12-14)

Peter mentions the name of Silvanus. This is another name for Silas. He was a man of prominence in the Jerusalem church before being sent to Antioch in order to encourage and strengthen the brothers there. Later he accompanied Paul on one of his evangelistic journeys. He is also named as one of the authors of two inspired letters to the church in Thessalonica which was in Greece. Another measure of this mans’ high standing in the church is that Peter calls him a faithful brother.

But when Peter says that he obtained the help of Silas in writing this letter it raises a question. If Silas’ help was needed to write this letter, then how can it be inspired? To answer this question we must understand the nature of inspiration. In chapter one, verse 11 Peter said that it was through the Spirit of Christ that the prophets of old spoke. This is fitting because one of Jesus’ names is the Word of God. So when we say that a particular book or letter is inspired, we are saying that it contains God’s message given through the Spirit of Christ. But Christ did not merely dictate the message as though the prophets and Apostles were secretaries. He has elevated those to whom he gave God’s message to a much higher level than that. While speaking to the Apostles he said, “No longer do I call you servants, for the servant doesn’t know what his lord does. But I have called you friends, for everything that I heard from my Father, I have made known to you.” (John 15:15) The Apostle Paul writes, “We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us…” (2 Corinthians 5:20) So we see that Christ used the talents and abilities of His chosen messengers to express God’s words. The message of this letter was entrusted to Peter. But though Peter undoubtedly spoke Greek, it was not his mother tongue. And so he enlisted Silas to help him with the language. No one should make the mistake however, of thinking that because Christ chose to work through men in delivering God’s message that the words written in the Bible are only the words of men or the interpretation of men. No – the Bible is truly the word of God. The Apostle Peter writes, “knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of private interpretation. For no prophecy ever came by the will of man: but holy men of God spoke, being moved by the Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)

When Peter says that “this is the true grace of God” and instructs his readers to “stand fast in it” he is referring to what he has already said throughout his letter. In particular, he has reminded the followers of Jesus that God will, “…after you have suffered a little while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.” (5:10) It is only by holding on to God’s grace that the followers of Christ will be able to endure suffering. Those who let go of it will be overcome by their suffering.

Peter sends greetings from “she who is in Babylon” and his ‘son’ Mark. This Mark is probably the cousin of Barnabas. (See Colossians 4:10) He accompanied Paul and Barnabas on one of their evangelistic journeys. Later he served in Rome while Paul was a prisoner there. He was also a companion of Peter and because he was such a close associate of one of the principle eyewitnesses of Jesus’ ministry was inspired to write the Gospel of Mark which is thought to be the earliest of the four gospels. Peter calls him his son. It is thought that Peter means this in a spiritual sense rather than physically.

It is most likely that Peter extends greetings from the church in Babylon rather than a particular person. But it is a matter of controversy which Babylon Peter was writing from. Some think that he uses the name Babylon as a hidden reference to Rome as the Apostle John does in the book of Revelation. The problem with this view is that nowhere else in his letter does Peter use allegorical or figurative names for geographical locations. Also, though it is very probable that Peter died in the city of Rome, there is no indication in the Bible that Peter had any part in establishing the church at Rome or that he served there. Others think that Peter was writing from a Roman fort called Babylon which was located in Egypt very near the present city of Cairo. This view is based on the tradition that Mark, whom Peter mentions, was instrumental in founding the church in Egypt. There can be little doubt that Mark evangelized Egypt, but it seems likely that most, if not all, of his ministry there took place after Peter’s death. If this is so, then it is unlikely that Peter could have written his letter from Egypt. Also, if Peter was an elder in the church in Egypt, it seems strange that Mark should be remembered as the one who founded the church there rather than Peter. When these facts are taken into consideration, it seems most likely that Peter wrote his letter from the ancient city of Babylon which is located on the Euphrates River. The tradition of the Eastern Churches also places him there at the time his letter was written.

Peter writes that the followers of Christ should greet one another with a kiss of love. It seems that a kiss was a common way of greeting among the people to whom Peter was writing. Even today in several places in the world people greet one another with a kiss. But whatever our method of greeting may be the attitude of our hearts should be consistent with the expression of our greeting. There are many who express great warmth by their greetings but harbor hatred in their hearts. But for the follower of Christ, the outward greeting should be an expression of the love one has in his heart.

Peter closes his letter with a prayer that the followers of Christ will have peace. This peace is not the absence of trouble or suffering, but rather an inner calm that enables one to face difficulty with in the full assurance that God loves him. This type of peace is something that only the followers of Christ can experience. Throughout his letter Peter has written of the many blessings and the glorious future that God grants to Jesus’ followers. The question is whether we have given our lives to Christ so that these blessings can be ours. If you do not yet follow Jesus, we invite you to do so, so that you too may experience peace and a living hope.

Vigor and enthusiasm are some of the outstanding characteristics of youth. But these positive qualities can also be their downfall. In their enthusiasm the young are often tempted to dismiss the wisdom of those who are older and to defy the authority of those who are over them. Perhaps it is for this reason that Peter address the young in chapter 5, verse 5 of his first inspired letter. He writes, “Likewise, you younger ones, be subject to the elder…” By “the elder” Peter is not merely speaking of those who are more advanced in years. He is specifically referring to those who hold the leadership position of elder or pastor in the church. In the first 4 verses of chapter five Peter had given instructions to the elders to not lord it over the people in their care. If it is important for leaders to deal gently with those under them, it is also essential that those who are young be obedient to those who have been given the responsibility of spiritual oversight.

But it is not only youth who need to show humility. Both the old and the young, both leader and led, all need it. Peter continues his message by saying, “…Yes, all of you clothe yourselves with humility, to subject yourselves to one another; for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”” (5:5) Pride boasts that it is self-sufficient. Humility, on the other hand, gives up self-reliance for reliance on God. God can give his blessings only to those who recognize that they need them and are therefore willing to receive them. Peter says that the followers of Christ should clothe themselves with humility. When we look at each other we take note of what kind of clothes the other person is wearing. When someone looks at a follower of Christ, they should see humility.

Humility on the part of a Christian makes it possible for God to bless him. But humility also has a cost. In verse 6 Peter writes, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time;” We want the solution to our problems right now. We want to take things into our hands. But if we are humble we will acknowledge that we don’t always know what is best. We cannot see all of God’s plan and therefore humility will cause us to wait on His timing. We can rest assured that if we humbly submit then, when the timing is right, God will lift us up. This confidence in God’s promise will allow us to do what Peter says in verse 7: “casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.” Anxiety is actually a form of pride. Pride holds on. Anxiety is saying that we want to be in control of the situation. Humility lets go. It acknowledges that it is God who is in control and that He will bring good out of whatever happens. We all need to ask ourselves whether we are giving our troubles to God or whether we are holding on to them.

Every follower of Christ needs to understand that the difficulties he faces are not merely the result of bad luck. They have an enemy that is actively seeking their destruction. In verses 8 through 11 Peter writes, “Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Withstand him steadfast in your faith, knowing that your brothers who are in the world are undergoing the same sufferings. But may the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”

Peter identifies the enemy of Christ’s people as the devil, not people. It is essential that we realize what this means. Though the devil often does his evil work through people, the Christian’s fight is not against them but rather against their master. The follower of Christ should not try to destroy those who cause them trouble, but should try to win them over. The Apostle Paul explains it this way, “For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world’s rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

It is also important to understand that the enemy is deadly. The only thing that will satisfy him is the destruction of Christ’s followers. Peter compares the devil to a roaring lion. But what lion would announce his presence to his intended prey by roaring? It appears that the devil seeks to deceive his victims into thinking that he does not intend to devour them. Or perhaps he is so powerful, swift and cunning that he feels no need to conceal himself. It is because their enemy is so deadly that Peter instructs Christ’s followers to be sober and self-controlled. This is the third time he has told them to be sober. The actual meaning of the word Peter uses is “free from intoxicating substances.” From chapter 1, verse 13 we see that this is part of what is meant when the followers of Christ are instructed to be holy. In chapter 4, verse 7 we see that sobriety is necessary in order to pray, and here we see that it is necessary in order to combat the devil.

How can such a foe as the devil be resisted? It is clear that if we attempt to do so by relying on our own strength we will surely fail. How then can it be done? Peter says by standing firm in the faith. It is our confidence in God and Jesus Christ which will bring victory. And we do not have to fight the battle by ourselves. Peter reminds his readers that followers of Christ all over the world are facing the same kind of suffering. This helps us in two ways. First, we can be encouraged and draw strength from the example of our brothers in other places who are gaining the victory. Secondly, it encourages us to set a good example for those brothers who are in danger of giving up.

As a further encouragement Peter reminds Christ’s followers that their suffering will only last a “little while” while the glory that Christ is giving them is eternal. As in says in Scripture, “Therefore don’t throw away your boldness, which has a great reward. For you need endurance so that, having done the will of God, you may receive the promise.” (Hebrews 10:35-36) On the surface it would seem that suffering would destroy Christ’s people, but Peter points out that after they have suffered a little while God will establish them and make them strong, firm and steadfast. Are we allowing suffering to overwhelm us, or are we allowing God to work through suffering to establish us?

Good leadership will often make the difference whether a group will survive or not during times of crisis. The followers of Christ to whom the Apostle Peter was writing in his first inspired letter were facing persecution. After encouraging the people and giving instructions about how they should conduct themselves in these circumstances, Peter specifically addresses their spiritual leaders. In chapter 5, verses 1 through 4 he writes, “I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and who will also share in the glory that will be revealed. Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion, but voluntarily, not for dishonest gain, but willingly; neither as lording it over those entrusted to you, but making yourselves examples to the flock. When the chief Shepherd is revealed, you will receive the crown of glory that doesn’t fade away.”

When Peter uses the word ‘elder’ to describe the ones to whom he is writing, he is not merely speaking about their physical age. He is referring specifically to an office in the church leadership. It should be noted that several different terms are used to describe these leaders. In addition to the title which is translated as ‘presbyter’ or ‘elder,’ Peter says that they are also to act as a ‘shepherd’ or ‘pastor.’ He also says that they exercise ‘oversight.’ The word ‘overseer’ is sometimes translated ‘bishop.’ From this we can see that in the Holy Scriptures these titles are not used to describe different ranks of leaders in the church, but rather to describe different aspects of an elder’s role. It was only after the time of the Apostles that men began to wrongly divide the leadership of the church into higher and lower positions and to apply these different titles to the positions that they had created.

Peter bases his appeal to the church leadership on three things. The first is that he is a fellow elder. He does not command them using his authority as an Apostle, but appeals to them as one who shares the same burdens and responsibilities as they do. On the basis of what is written in chapter 5, verse 13 it would seem that in addition to being an Apostle Peter served as an elder in the church at Babylon. What he is saying is that he is not asking the other leaders of the church to do anything that he is not willing to do himself. The second basis for making his appeal is that he was an eyewitness of Christ’s suffering. He is able to instruct the church leaders about how they should conduct themselves in the face of persecution because he has personal knowledge of how Christ conducted Himself. The third basis for making his appeal is that he will share in the glory that will be revealed. In his second inspired letter Peter writes, “For we did not follow cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter1:16) It is because Peter has seen a glimpse of Christ’s glory that he urges his fellow leaders to act in such a way that they too may share in it.

Peter says that a leader in the church should serve voluntarily and not because they feel compelled to do so. Christ wants a person’s heart, not just his actions. The man who regards the role of pastoring God’s flock as an irksome duty will do as little as he can to get by. On the other hand, the man who serves from the heart will have the interests of the flock in mind instead of his own.

In addition to willingness, another qualification for leadership in the church is to have the right motives. There are many who seek leadership in the church because they imagine that they will receive a good salary or that they will be able to use their position to their own financial advantage. But Peter says an elder must not be like this. The apostle Paul also gives two different lists of the qualifications of elders. (See I Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9) In both of these lists he says that an elder must not be motivated by the desire to get money. In another place, Paul describes some of the characteristics of false teachers as those, “…who suppose that godliness is a means of gain… those who are determined to be rich fall into a temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful lusts, such as drown men in ruin and destruction… Some have been led astray from the faith in their greed, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (1 Timothy 6:5-10) Both Peter and Paul are saying that those who serve with the motive to get money have no business being in the leadership of the church.

Every position of authority also carries with it the potential for abuse. One temptation that elders face is to “lord it over” the people entrusted to their care. Those who do lord it over the flock have forgotten what it means to be a leader in Christ’s church. The people are not there to serve the leader, instead a leader is there to serve the people. Jesus told his disciples, “…The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those who have authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ But not so with you. But one who is the greater among you, let him become as the younger, and one who is governing, as one who serves. …I am in the midst of you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:25-27) Every elder should set an example to the flock under him, just as Jesus set the example for the Apostles. The leaders of the church should not seek glory or honor in this life, but should await the glory that the Chief Shepherd will give them when He appears. It is very important to notice that Peter calls Jesus the ‘Chief Shepherd.’ There are many who try to put Peter in this role as the archbishop of the church. But Peter himself refutes this. Both here and in chapter 2, verse 25 he makes it clear that Jesus is the Shepherd who has authority over the church. Peter does not command, but appeals to his fellow elders as his equals.

All leaders in the church should examine their reasons for being in leadership. Do they truly wish to serve, or do they look upon their position as a job or an unpleasant duty? Do they really wish to help people, or do they consider their position a good way to acquire money? Do they give orders to those in their authority, or do they motivate people to do what is right by their own good example? If a person cannot meet these criteria that Peter has given, and is not willing to change, then he should not be a leader in the church.

Jesus plainly told His disciples that they would be persecuted. He said, “Then they will deliver you up to oppression, and will kill you. You will be hated by all of the nations for my name’s sake.” (Matthew 24:9) In view of this clear warning, what should the attitude of the followers of Christ be towards persecution? The Apostle Peter addresses himself to this question in chapter 4, verses 12 through 19 of his first inspired letter. He writes, “Beloved, don’t be astonished at the fiery trial which has come upon you, to test you, as though a strange thing happened to you. But because you are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, rejoice; that at the revelation of his glory you also may rejoice with exceeding joy. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed; because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. On their part he is blasphemed, but on your part he is glorified. For let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or an evil doer, or a meddler in other men’s matters. But if one of you suffers for being a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God in this matter. For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. If it begins first with us, what will happen to those who don’t obey the Good News of God? “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will happen to the ungodly and the sinner?” Therefore let them also who suffer according to the will of God in doing good entrust their souls to him, as to a faithful Creator.”

The first thing that Peter emphasizes is that the followers of Christ should not be surprised that they are persecuted. It is not something strange. Jesus said, “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you… Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his lord.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you…” (John 15:18-20)

Peter says that the followers of Jesus should rejoice in the face of persecution. How can this be? One reason is that to share in Christ’s sufferings in this life will enable those who believe in Him to share in His joy when His glory will be revealed. In chapter 1, verse 7 and again in chapter 5, verse 4, Peter says that Christ’s followers will also share in His glory. The more we suffer for Christ in this life, the greater our glory will be in the end.

Another reason for the followers of Christ to rejoice when persecuted is “…because the Spirit of glory and of God rests…” on them. The Apostle Paul explains the nature of this blessing when he writes, “But if the Spirit of him who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised up Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11) It is this hope in the resurrection that allows the followers of Christ to rejoice even though their persecutors may kill them.

But the followers of Christ must examine their own actions to make sure that the persecution they suffer is not a result of their own wrong doing. Peter makes it very clear that God’s blessing is only on those who are insulted because of the name of Christ. If we suffer because of evil actions, or even because we have meddled in other peoples affairs, then our suffering is on our own heads. Just as the accusations against Jesus were proven false, so too the accusations made against his followers should also prove to be false.

Peter says that no one should be ashamed of suffering for being a Christian. To us this might seem a strange thing to say to the followers of Jesus. We can understand why Peter would say this however, when we take a closer look at the word he uses. Notice first of all, that in this passage from Peter’s letter which we are studying, in the eyes of a persecutor to be a Christian is as dishonorable as being a thief or murderer. The word ‘Christian’ is used only two other times in the New Testament. One mention of this word is in king Arippa’s remark to Paul, “With a little persuasion are you trying to make me a Christian?” (Acts 26:28) We do not know in what tone of voice the king said this, but it is quite possible that he said it contemptuously. We are also told that, “…The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.” (Acts 11:26) The word translated ‘called’ refers to a person’s occupation. So the name ‘Christian’ means those who make following Christ their occupation. It is also interesting to note that the name is not something the followers of Christ originally applied to themselves, but was given to them by those outside the faith. In fact, history records that Christ’s followers did not use this name for themselves until about the second century. In view of these facts, and that Peter tells his readers not to be ashamed of this name, it seems reasonable to say that those who gave this name to Jesus’ followers probably meant it as a taunt or abuse.

But there is another side to this. The prophet Isaiah had prophesied that God would give His people a new name. (See Isaiah 62:2) There are many names used for Jesus’ followers, such as disciples (Acts 6:7), saints (Ephesians 1:1), brothers (Acts 15:1, 23) and followers of the way (Acts 9:2). The only name, however, that can be applied exclusively to Jesus’ followers is ‘Christian.’ Peter says that a Christian should praise God that he bears that name. He is bearing the name of Christ, and as scripture says, “… God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name…” (Philippians 2:9). God has taken a name that man intended for insult and ridicule and turned it into something that is a privilege and honor to bear.

Though the followers of Christ may have to suffer persecution, Peter points out that their persecutors will also have to face judgment. Peter calls persecution a judgment. Though it is difficult to face, the persecutors will have to face a far worse one when they stand before God. Peter quotes Proverbs 11:31 from the Septuagint, which is a Greek translation of the Old Testament, to establish that the righteous, that is Christians, will be saved. But if their salvation is difficult, then it is impossible for those who do not follow Christ. In view of this, Peter assures his readers that God, their Creator, is faithful and urges those who are suffering as a result of being a Christian to fully commit their lives to him, and to continue to do good.

How should we act when threatened with hardship or persecution? When trouble comes some people think only of themselves. Others try to escape it with alcohol or some other intoxicating substance. But the Apostle Peter says that the followers of Christ should respond to trouble by rendering loving service. In chapter 4 of his first inspired letter, verses 7 through 11 he writes, “But the end of all things is near. Therefore be of sound mind, self-controlled, and sober in prayer. And above all things be earnest in your love among yourselves, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, employ it in serving one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms. If anyone speaks, let it be as it were the very words of God. If anyone serves, let it be as of the strength which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

It is not entirely clear what Peter means when he says, “the end of all thing is near.” It is possible that he is referring to the end of the world and the time when Jesus will return. If this is so, then it is important to keep in mind that Peter is not promising that Christ’s return will happen in the next few days or even years. God’s timing is very different from that of man. In his second letter Peter himself says, “But don’t forget this one thing, beloved, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” (2 Peter 3:8) Though it has been almost 2,000 years since Peter wrote that “the end of all things is near,” his inspired words are still true. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “…salvation is now nearer to us than when we first believed.” (Romans 13:11)

When Peter says that the end of all things is near he may mean that the conditions which have brought about persecution are nearing an end. It is also possible that Peter means that the end of all things is near in the sense that some of those reading his letter will be killed in the persecution they are facing. But regardless of Peter’s meaning, how should the followers of Christ act when facing the end? There are four things Peter says Christians should do. The first is to pray. The word in this verse which is translated ‘sober’ actually means to be free from intoxicating substances. So we see that in order for someone to be able to pray they must be both clear minded and temperate. If we find it difficult to pray it may be that we are indulging in things that dull or befuddle our minds. If we wish God’s help, then we must refrain from those things that make it impossible for us to ask for his help.

In addition to praying, Peter says that the most important thing the followers of Christ should do is to love one another deeply. The reason he gives is that love covers a multitude of sins. It is important to understand that Peter is not saying that God will excuse sin because of His love for us. God never excuses sin. Instead He paid the penalty for sin on our behalf through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Peter is not speaking here about the relationship between mankind and God but about the relationship that there should be between the followers of Jesus. But how does love cover sin? One way is that love does not try to find evil in another Christian. The Apostle Paul wrote that love, “… takes no account of evil; doesn’t rejoice in unrighteousness…” (1 Corinthians 13:5-6) When love does discover sin, it forgives and refrains from spreading the matter. Proverbs 17:9 says, “He who covers an offense promotes love; but he who repeats a matter separates best friends.” Love also tries to reclaim the one who has sinned. The Apostle John writes, “If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life for those who sin not leading to death…” (1 John 5:16) The Apostle Paul says, “Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren’t tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:1-2) Are we following Peter’s instruction to love one another? Do we try to restore those who have fallen into sin? Or are we trying to find fault?

The third thing that Peter instructs the followers of Christ to do is to “Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.” (4:9) One of the benefits of extending hospitality is that it helps us take our minds off of our own troubles and to think of the needs of other people. When the followers of Christ share in this way with one another, the burdens of each become less. But hospitality should not be restricted to those we know. Sometimes God sends his blessings by means of strangers. Scripture says, “Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2) We should all examine our lives in this area. Do we show hospitality to others?

A fourth response when facing the end of all things is that the followers of Christ should use what time they have to serve others. Peter says that God has given each follower of Christ a gift which is to be used to benefit others. He mentions only two of them, that is speaking and service, but the Apostle Paul mentions several more. He writes, “Having gifts differing according to the grace that was given to us, if prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of our faith; or service, let us give ourselves to service; or he who teaches, to his teaching; or he who exhorts, to his exhorting: he who gives, let him do it with liberality; he who rules, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.” (Romans 12:6-8) Several things should be noted about these gifts: 1) They are from God, not self-generated. 2) God has given each of Christ’s followers at least one of these gifts. 3) Everyone is gifted differently. 4) No one has all the gifts. 5) They are to be used in God’s strength. 6) The gifts are to be used in such a way that God’s glory is displayed. Each one of us who follows Christ should ask ourselves how we are using the gift God has given us. Are we using it for his glory? Are we serving others through God’s power? Or are we trying to do everything in our own strength?

The Apostle Peter follows his own instruction by closing this section of his letter with an expression of praise to God an Christ: “…to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (4:11)

It is a fact of life that people suffer. The question is, Why? In chapter 3 of his first inspired letter, the Apostle Peter reminds the followers of Christ that suffering may result from their own wrong actions. But suffering may also have meaning and purpose. Peter gives the example of Jesus to illustrate that suffering may be necessary in order to reconcile someone else to God. It is only because the innocent Jesus died on behalf of sinners that their sins can be forgiven.

From this we can learn another important truth. God often uses the very thing that brings destruction to also bring deliverance. Christ laid down His life in order to give life to others. Peter also gives the illustrations of Noah and of baptism. Water destroyed the earth, but that same water also lifted the ark above the destruction. Our old self is destroyed when we are baptized into Christ’s death, and it is in that same baptism that we are saved through the power of Christ’s resurrection.

In the same way, Peter points out that suffering by the follower of Christ can be the very thing that ensures his salvation. In the first 6 verses of chapter 4 he writes, “Forasmuch then as Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind; for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin; that you no longer should live the rest of your time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For we have spent enough of our past time doing the desire of the Gentiles, and having walked in lewdness, lusts, drunken binges, orgies, carousings, and abominable idolatries. They think it is strange that you don’t run with them into the same excess of riot, blaspheming: [NIV, “and they heap abuse on you.”] who will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For to this end the Good News was preached even to the dead, that they might be judged indeed as men in the flesh, but live as to God in the spirit.”

Peter says that the followers of Christ are to arm themselves with Christ’s mind or attitude. What was His attitude? It was one that made Him willing to die on our behalf. The Apostle Paul describes it this way, “Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, didn’t consider equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, yes, the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:5-8) When we have the same attitude as Christ, we too will be willing to suffer in order to do God’s will even if it means our death.

But why is it necessary to go through this kind of suffering? Peter’s answer to this question is that, “he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.” But what does “ceased with sin” mean? There are two meanings. The Apostle Paul explains the first in this way: “We who died to sin, how could we live in it any longer? …Thus consider yourselves also to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Therefore don’t let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts.” (Romans 6:2, 11-12) From this we can see that just as the body of a dead person can no longer respond to anything, the person who has submitted his life to Christ should no longer respond to the allure of sin. He is dead to it. It no longer has a hold on him. And this is something that the non-Christian cannot understand. Peter says that they think it is strange when the follower of Christ does not join them in doing evil things, and heap abuse upon him.

To avoid this abuse the follower of Christ might be tempted to give in and join the non-Christian in his evil practices. But Peter gives two reasons for not doing so. The first is that no matter how much or little time we have spent doing these things in the past, it is enough! It was this behavior which made Christ’s death necessary. How can the follower of Christ involve himself again in the very things that caused his Lord to sacrifice His life? Scripture says, “For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which will devour the adversaries.” (Hebrews 10:26-27)

The second reason that a follower of Christ should not be intimidated into committing sin is that those who are abusing him will have to give account to the one who will judge both the living and the dead. Who is this judge? Peter himself provided the answer to this question when he preached to the household of Cornelius. He said, “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth… he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.” (Acts 10:38, 42 NIV) In chapter 3, verse 15 of his first letter Peter had pointed out that Jesus is the defender of His people. Here we see that Jesus is also the judge of their persecutors.

How far will Jesus allow persecution to go? Peter says that it is possible that Christ may even allow his followers to be killed. When Peter writes, “…that they might be judged indeed as men in the flesh, but live as to God in the spirit.” (4:6) he is drawing a direct parallel to what he had already said about Jesus in chapter 3, verse 18. That verse says He was, “…put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” Just as men put Jesus to death, they may kill His followers as well. But just as God’s Spirit raised Jesus from the dead, so too God will keep alive the spirits of those who are put to death for following Him. As the message which was given to the church in Smyrna says, “…Be faithful to death, and I will give you the crown of life… He who overcomes won’t be harmed by the second death.” (Revelation 2:10-11) The term ‘second death’ refers to eternal punishment in hell.

And this brings us to the second meaning of the phrase ‘ceased from sin’. A person who has died can no longer sin or be tempted by it. One reason God allows Christians to suffer, even to be killed, is that it is better for a follower of Christ to die than to throw his salvation away by returning to a life of sin.

Why do we suffer? The Apostle Peter gives at least three reasons. The first is that suffering may be a result of our own wrongdoing. In chapter 3, verse 17 of his first letter Peter writes, “For it is better, if it is God’s will, that you suffer for doing well than for doing evil.” From this we can see that not all suffering is God’s will. All too often we do what is wrong and then blame God for the consequences. Each one of us needs to ask the question, “Is my suffering a result of my own choice to do what is wrong?”

But there is another reason or cause for suffering. It may be necessary for us to suffer so that someone else may be reconciled to God. To illustrate this point Peter gives the example of Christ. In verse 18 he writes, “Because Christ also suffered for sins once, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring you to God…” Just as Christ had to suffer in order to bring salvation to those who believe in Him, it may be necessary for the followers of Jesus to suffer in order to take the message of salvation to those who do not yet believe. The Apostle Paul puts it this way, “But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation; namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not reckoning to them their trespasses, and having committed to us the word of reconciliation. We are therefore ambassadors on behalf of Christ, as though God were entreating by us: we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-20)

Before Peter discusses a third purpose in suffering he describes the process of salvation. In verses 18 through 21 he writes of Christ, “…being put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; in which he also went and preached to the spirits in prison, who before were disobedient, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, while the ship was being built. In it, few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water. This is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you—not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,”

It is important to note that both in the days of Noah and today the need for salvation results from man’s disobedience. In describing Noah’s era Scripture says, “Yahweh [that is, “The Lord”] saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Genesis 6:5) In regard to the days in which we are living God’s word says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness…” (Romans 1:18) Man’s disobedience not only makes salvation necessary, disobedience also prevents man from obtaining the salvation which is offered to him. Only eight people, including Noah, obeyed by entering the ark and so were saved from the flood. Today, it is only those who obey Christ who will be saved from the judgment that God is bringing on mankind. Peter writes that “…God waited patiently in the days of Noah…” Scripture tells us that God waited 120 years before sending the flood. God is patiently waiting today as well for people to accept the forgiveness He offers. In his second inspired letter Peter writes The Lord, “…is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) Each one of us needs to ask ourselves whether we are presuming upon God’s patience or whether we are being obedient to Christ.

What does Peter mean when he says that Christ “…also went and preached to the spirits in prison, who before were disobedient…”? Some think that after Jesus died on the cross He descended into hell and until His resurrection preached to the condemned spirits there. But there is a more reasonable explanation. In chapter 1, verses 10 through 12 Peter pointed out that the Spirit of Christ was in the prophets and it was He that motivated them to speak. When Noah spoke to the people of his generation, his words were actually the words of Christ. They were condemned because they rejected Christ’s message which Noah revealed to them. We too will be condemned if we reject Christ’s message.

From Peter’s account we can learn the following about salvation: 1) Before salvation can be granted, there must be a means of salvation. Noah could not be saved from the flood until the ark had been built. In the same way, it is Jesus’ death and resurrection that prepared the way for our salvation from sin. 2) Those that are saved must have a faith that causes them to obey. Only those who believed Noah’s message that the flood was coming obeyed the command to enter the ark. Only those who believe Christ’s message obey Him. 3) There must be an agent of salvation. In Noah’s time water not only destroyed the earth but lifted the ark above the flood. In the same way the waters of baptism are the agent by which God grants new spiritual life to the sinner. The apostle Paul writes, “Or don’t you know that all we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him through baptism to death, that just like Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:3-4) There are many who disagree with this concept. They say that baptism is not necessary for our salvation. But who are we to argue with the Apostles Peter and Paul? Who are we to argue with the method our savior chooses to save us? It is not our place to argue with Christ, but to humbly obey and accept the salvation He offers. 4) Salvation not only looks to the future but also has immediate benefits. The meaning of Peter’s phrase that is translated “…the answer of a good conscience toward God…” is somewhat obscure. One thing that seems clear, however, is that God grants those who are baptized into Christ a clear conscience. 5) Salvation from sin is impossible apart from Christ’s resurrection from the dead. The Apostle Paul writes, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is vain; you are still in your sins.” (1 Corinthians 15:17)

Christ’s suffering made our salvation possible. But it also brought a reward. In verse 22 Peter writes, “…who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, angels and authorities and powers being made subject to him.”