1Pet. 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Peter is an apostle, a man on a mission from the Savior, Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In fact, he was one of the inner circle of the twelve disciples Jesus chose and empowered to spread His teachings and oversee the spread of the gospel and the establishment of the church.
After looking at the Greek, I realized that the term “strangers” is just referring to those in foreign lands. The word stranger also referenced pilgrims, or resident foreigners; makes me think of someone out of place. The next verse indicates that they are believers; they are out of place, away from home while here on planet earth. When I looked at my Bible map, these people lived in the area from Turkey westward, indicating that they were predominantly Gentiles.
1Pet. 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
“Elect” – That controversial word to so many. Simply means chosen. How? “According to the foreknowledge of God the Father.” When I checked the Greek, it means what it says—foreknowledge, knowing in advance. God’s foreknowledge is complete. ALL was known to Him before creation ever took place. When understood in its simplest terms, it gives the perfect balance to being chosen and having a choice.
Excerpt from my journal on Romans 8:29: “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” To foreknow means to know beforehand. Predestinate is to “limit in advance, determine before.” Because He is God, He knew everything that ever would happen before He ever created one thing. (That truth alone poses many questions that I can’t begin to discuss.) The fact is that He knew in advance every person’s response to Him—whether it would be in faith and obedience or rejection and disobedience. Those who fell into the category of faith and obedience were predestined to be likened to His Son Jesus. [end excerpt]
Sanctification is the process of being made pure and holy. We can’t get there on our own efforts. It’s only through the working of the Holy Spirit in our lives that we can become more holy—more like Jesus. If left to our own efforts, any progress we make in any area becomes a source of pride in our lives—not holiness.
What is the intended purpose of sanctification? To produce obedience—not excuses, not inconsistency, not just in part……but complete obedience.
What made all this possible? The shed blood of Jesus Christ, the spotless Lamb of God, the sacrifice for my sin.
Peter sends wishes for their GRACE and PEACE to be multiplied. Again, the order is important; you can’t have the peace of God without first experiencing the grace of God. I’ve always heard grace defined as unmerited favor. There is a definition given in good ole Webster’s that I like: “Divine influence acting in man to make him pure and morally strong.” This is affirmed by the Greek: “…the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life….” Seems to go hand in hand with sanctification, doesn’t it? I usually think of peace as more of a state of mind or emotion (serene, quiet, resting); but it also designates a relationship between parties—be it countries or individuals. In keeping with the thoughts on sanctification and grace, I think you could also apply this to our relationship with God as a believer “sprinkled by the blood of Christ.” That relationship has been reconciled and is in harmony, not conflict, with the Father.
1Pet. 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Peter is expressing praise and adoration for “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Peter’s emphasis is on the Father, which is as it should be according to the hierarchy established by God for the family. The Father is in the “highest” position; the Son is subservient to the Father. This gets hard for my simple mind, so I just accept it.
Isaiah 55:8–9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
We know that the Father and Son are one—yet They are different. Jesus came to do the will of the Father—to be obedient. There is a defining difference in their position in the Godhead.
John 6:35–39 “And Jesus said unto them….For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing….”
The Greek uses the word compassion in defining mercy. Back to Webster’s—Kindness in excess of what may be expected or demanded by fairness; a disposition to forgive, pity or be kind. It’s the Father’s mercy that is being praised here since He is the one that raised Jesus from the dead. Without the resurrection there is no salvation.
1 Corinthians 15:14–17 “And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins.”
Peter emphasizes that His mercy is abundant, plentiful, more than needed. We had no reason or right to expect this gift of sacrifice on our behalf. (There are so many examples of His mercy towards Israel in particular in the scripture. Then again, there are so many examples in my own life.)
“begotten us again” – given us new life, a new beginning, made us born again. The word begat or begotten is used in showing parental lineage. We are “begotten again” by Him as His children.
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
The “lively hope” is the confident expectation of eternal life with Him based on our acceptance of the provision that Jesus made by means of His death, burial and resurrection as stated in the next verse.
1Pet. 1:4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,
“heaven” = God’s presence
Because we are His children, we are His heirs. We have a right to inherit His riches and wealth and blessings. This inheritance is incorruptible (contains no errors or alterations; without decay), undefiled (pure, not contaminated or polluted), and doesn’t fade away (it is sure, the same as when it was first established). Not only that, it is “reserved in heaven.” God is guarding, protecting and watching over this inheritance—for all believers, children of the King.
Romans 8:16–17 “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”
1Pet. 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
We are kept (guarded and protected). How? By the power of God (unlimited, without equal) through faith (belief and assurance) unto salvation (deliverance from the consequences of sin). If this faith is given to us by the Father, and He is the one guarding and protecting us, it stands to reason (in my mind anyway) that the believer’s faith is secure; it can’t be altered. (See Topical Study – Predestination, Salvation and Security.)
Many people don’t feel that we can be secure in our salvation, but I think this verse is a very strong argument for that security. Philippians 1:6 is another powerful verse for security: “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Salvation is God’s good work in us; He will finish what He starts. We get our thinking messed up because people claim to know the truth and even participate as part of the family for awhile—and then walk away from it. John makes it very clear, that those who are part of God’s family will remain a part of the family.
1 John 2:19 “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
Those who prove themselves to have been true believers, those with a sincere faith in God, will be revealed when Jesus returns to establish His kingdom.
Wiersbe: “The word translated ‘kept’ is a military word that means ‘guarded, shielded.’ The tense of the verb reveals that we are constantly being guarded by God, assuring us that we shall safely arrive in heaven.”
1Pet. 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
Why are they rejoicing? Because of the inheritance that is being reserved in heaven for them—their eternal salvation, dwelling with the Savior forever. Does this mean life will be without sorrow or trouble or hurt as we wait to receive our inheritance? No. Sometimes we are faced with times that brings us great sorrow, “for a season.”
It was interesting to check out the Greek for “temptations.” The words used were putting to proof through trial or testing or temptation—an experiment. What is the purpose of an experiment? To test a theory or prove an accepted truth. These manifold (various types) temptations are necessary to reveal who we are and what we actually believe. They reveal our strengths and/or areas of weakness. This revelation is for the benefit of the believer; God already knows everything there is to know about us.
1Pet. 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Our faith is in continual need of purification; it’s on trial; it needs proved. We think of gold as very precious. The more it is refined by fire, the purer it is; the more valuable it becomes. When our faith is purified through “manifold temptations,” it is strengthened and purified in order to be more glorifying to God. It will carry us through to provide praise, honor and glory to Jesus Christ when He returns.
Wiersbe: “A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted! Too many professing Christians have a ‘false faith,’ and this will be revealed in the trials of life.”
1Pet. 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
Peter is talking to “foreign” believers who had never seen Jesus, yet they loved Him and believed Him. Their only revelation of Jesus was through the teaching of His word and the testimony of other believers, especially those who knew Him and walked with Him, His disciples. That is a truth that needs to permeate our every word and action. Our lives are the first Bible most people read. We need to be so careful to portray an accurate picture of the love of Jesus in our lives. The only way we can hope to be successful in this endeavor is to know Him as intimately as possible (be in the Word and in prayer) and walk with Him (live in obedience to His Word).
Their joy in the Savior was “joy unspeakable and full of glory.” They had a hard time putting into words the delight and joy in their heart. The desire of their heart was to praise and magnify Jesus.
1Pet. 1:9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
What will be the result of their purified faith? Their salvation. Faith is personal. Faith will have an end when we are in the presence of the Savior. We will be able to see Him and touch Him and commune with Him face to face. Oh that it were today!!!!
1Pet. 1:10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
1Pet. 1:11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
These verses are a bit hard for me. I think the “grace that should come to you” is referring to the provision of our salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus. The prophets didn’t seem to be able to connect that the Messiah who would come would be the one who would suffer for our sins. They more readily connected to the coming of the Messiah with his glorious kingdom.
Again, it’s the same dilemma for me as I study the scripture. I know that God never changes and His word is true. So, when I go to study the truths in the scripture that are difficult, I am enquiring and searching diligently—but there is something I am missing. It’s certainly not missing in His word. Just like the prophets of old, I am always eager to focus on the truth that is more promising and uplifting. I am so eager for the day when I finally understand all the connections. I always want to know more of the details. Even the prophets wanted to know what and when. They were well aware that it was the Holy Spirit that gave them their prophetic revelations.
1Pet. 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
It was revealed to the prophets that they were speaking of things that would apply to a future generation. Peter is talking to believers of that generation. The “things” of which they spoke referenced the gospel that was preached to them (Peter’s audience) through the power of the Holy Ghost. The same Holy Ghost who was sent from heaven to be our Comforter, Guide and Teacher until Jesus returns.
The angels are interested in this amazing process by which Jesus provided for redemption of His creation. I think they are trying to figure out how He could love us so much and why we would ever choose to reject this most precious gift.
1Pet. 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
“gird” – fasten, secure, equip, prepare
Webster equated the loins with “reins” in humans, which equates with the kidney, which is where my thoughts first went. In my study of the Bible, I’ve learned that those terms refer to our deepest thoughts and desires—which makes sense to me in context for this verse. Peter is telling the believers to secure, equip and prepare their innermost thoughts and feelings to be sober (clear of mind, not under outside influence) and to hope (anticipate with pleasure, expect) to the end (completion of the process of God’s program) for the grace (the wonderful, undeserved, unimaginable existence) that will be ours when Christ returns to claim His kingdom.
Wiersbe: “Outlook determines outcome; attitude determines actions. A Christian who is looking for the glory of God has a greater motivation for present obedience than a Christian who ignores the Lord’s return….Looking for Christ to return strengthens our faith and hope in difficult days, and this imparts to us more of the grace of God.”
Titus 2:11–13 “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ….”
1Pet. 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:
We are to wait as obedient (attentive, compliant and submissive) children (aware of our position). We are new creations, and shouldn’t give in to the desires of the flesh, as we did in the past in our ignorance of the truth.
It was interesting to note when I checked the Greek for “lust” that one definition was “a longing, especially for what is forbidden.” I think it is true that we have a built-in sense of right and wrong; and left to our sin nature, we will always want the forbidden. Paul references both truths in his letter to the Romans.
Romans 1:18–19 “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.”
Romans 7:14–15 “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.”
1Pet. 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;
1Pet. 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
God, Who is holy, is the One Who has called us. He never gives us a command that He will not equip us to obey. He has given us the Holy Spirit for just that purpose. There goes the old saying, “The devil made me do it.” We have no valid excuse. We are to be holy—physically pure and morally blameless. Jesus set the example.
Leviticus 20:7 “Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.”
1Pet. 1:17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:
I had to remind myself that Peter is talking to believers here. He is making the statement that we are all on level ground at the feet of the Father. Each man and woman will be judged according to his/her work. Thankfully, as a believer, I can rest on the finished work of Jesus on the cross and can stand before God clothed in His righteousness. As believers, our judgment will be for rewards.
2 Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
1 Corinthians 3:13–14 “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.”
I have always thought of fearing the LORD as referencing an attitude of awe and reverence; but the Greek for “fear” used here is the word for “dread, terror, alarm, and fright.” Sojourning indicates that we are just passing through; we are resident foreigners. But why should we sojourn in “fear” as believers? It cannot be fear for our own future. It can be fear of the awesome power of God and His righteousness in judgment of our nation, our unbelieving loved ones, and the unbelieving world in general. It should motivate us to spread the gospel and teachings of the Word to as many as possible. When God passes judgment during our sojourn here, we will be affected just as those around us are affected—just as they are recipients of good things that come because of His love for His children on this earth (e.g., the rain and sunshine, the harvest, prosperity, etc.) As the balance in America shifts more and more to mocking God’s Word and doing what is right in our own eyes—we should fear, but not as those without hope and a sure salvation. We should also keep in mind that anything that touches the lives of those who love the LORD, He will work for good.
Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
1Pet. 1:18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
1Pet. 1:19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
We have been redeemed—bought with a price—but not with material things that will eventually decay. From what were we redeemed? From sin rooted in the empty way of life that was handed down to us through the traditions of our fathers. The empty way of life that had been handed down to these believers included:
idolatry
adherence to a set of laws that made life a chore and not a joy
belief in a religious system rather than the God who created them and loved them and wanted to provide for them as His children.
How were we redeemed? At what price? By the precious blood of Christ, the perfect, spotless Son of God who became our sacrificial Lamb—because He loves us. It’s hard enough to understand now, but I’m sure it will be even more amazing to us when we actually experience for ourselves what Jesus willingly gave up to redeem us. The angels are already aware of that; no wonder they are “looking into these things.”
Titus 2:14 “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”
Galatians 4:4-5 “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.”
Revelation 5:9 “And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.”
In talking about verse 18 with a friend, it hit me that the traditions we pass on to our family are important. Those traditions should promote a way of life that honors God—the complete opposite of a “vain conversation” that promotes rebellion and/or rejection of God.
1Pet. 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
“foreordained” – from the Greek to know beforehand
“manifest” – became clear, revealed, made visible
My paraphrase – Christ was known as The Sacrificial Lamb without spot and blemish, the Messiah, before the world was even created.
I’ve often wondered why God created the world since He knew we would rebel against Him and most would never accept Him as LORD even after He sacrificed His only Son to redeem us and clothe us in His own righteousness. The only reason I can come up with is His unexplainable love and desire for fellowship with us.
His position as the Messiah was made clear when He came in the flesh as the Son of God to become the sacrifice for our sins. It’s always easy to read the gospel and apply it broadly to men in general or the body of believers as a whole. I was struck again when reading through these verses this time that it was “for you”—me, the individual.
These last times (I believe) is a term that refers to time on earth in general from the ascension of the LORD after His resurrection until He returns as King of kings.
1Pet. 1:21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
“by him” – through Jesus Christ
God the Father brought Jesus back to life after His death on the cross. The resurrection is God’s public affirmation of the acceptance of His Son’s willing sacrifice of Himself in payment for my sin.
Because of this wonderful miracle, these people had come to believe, to trust in God. They recognized that Jesus had been raised to a position in glory, and they had been persuaded and convinced and had confident expectation that God would fulfill His promises. He would provide their salvation for eternity if they would just accept the sacrifice of His Son for their sins.
1Pet. 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:
“purify” – make clean, cleanse from defilement
“unfeigned” – without hypocrisy, genuine, sincere
“unfeigned love”- the Greek for love is not specified; “see that ye love” – the word for love is agapao
How do we purify our souls? By obedience to the truth through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit at work in us. This will produce in us a sincere unconditional love of ALL our brothers and sisters in the faith. It sounds so simple, but is oh so hard. Just to be obedient to the truth is a constant struggle. Part of that obedience is to “love others as ourselves.” That is a desire of my heart; but when the rubber hits the road regarding choices in that direction, I often fail. I’m so selfish. I truly feel like the LORD has given me a servant spirit, yet selfish choices win out over and over again. What’s even worse is that I’ll often make the best choice in serving someone else in His name, but I’ll make the poor choice when it comes to my time of personal interaction with Him. You would think it would be just the opposite. I’m just so glad that the LORD doesn’t give up on me and that He loves me in spite of me. I truly want to be total clay in His hands, but I’m not sure that time will ever come until He takes me home.
I just realized this verse is worded as a compliment for what they have accomplished, yet a warning to continue in that love fervently, intently, with a purposeful mindset. (Maybe there is hope for me yet on this earth.)
Another thought just hit me—The decision to love one another is just that—a decision, a choice, a mindset. It’s not to be based on someone’s looks, position in society, or whatever. We are supposed to love ALL the brethren—and that is the emphasis here, love of fellow believers.
1Pet. 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
“corruptible” – perishable, decayed
Those who believe in Christ have been born again, given a new life, a new beginning. When we sinned in Adam, the spiritual fellowship that we had with God was broken; we suffered spiritual death. Not only that, our body began to decay, to die. I’ve heard our being defined this way:
Spirit = God consciousness
Soul = self consciousness
Body = world consciousness through the senses
Through faith in Jesus, our spiritual fellowship with the Creator is restored. How is that possible? By declaration of God, through the Word, His Son, and the loving sacrifice He made to make that life possible.
John 1:1-3 “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. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
1Pet. 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
“glory” – good opinion, praise, honor, approval
Peter is comparing our bodies to the grass and any status we achieve in the flesh to the flower of the grass. They are both temporary. Peter is referencing the words of Isaiah in this verse and the next.
Isaiah 40:7-8 “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.”
1Pet. 1:25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.
“preach” – announce good news, glad tidings
God’s Word, on the other hand, will endure forever, ad infinitum, without end. It is by the authority of God’s enduring, unchanging word that the gospel (good news of Jesus’ provision on the cross—His death, burial and resurrection) is preached to any of us. We tend to put a negative connotation on being “preached to.” Actually it is just a term that means to share the good news.
1Pet. 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,
“malice” – “kakia” - evil, wickedness, badness, depravity, naughtiness
“guile” – “dolos” – bait, deceit, decoy, trick, subtilty
“hypocrisy” – “hupokrisis” – playacting, deceit, condemnation
“envies” – “phthonos” – ill will, jealousy, spite
“evil speakings” – “katalalia” – slander, defamation, backbiting
The interesting thing to me is that Peter is writing to believers, and he feels it necessary to remind them to put away, to get rid of these sins in their lives. It is a reminder that salvation doesn’t automatically produce perfection in the “new creation.” We still struggle with sin. His statement also indicates that the matter of laying these things aside involves a choice that we are capable of making and sticking to through the power of the Holy Spirit that indwells us.
Galatians 5:16 “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
1Pet. 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
Newborn babies are very demanding concerning their feeding. They demand it on a regular, consistent schedule. In fact, they demand it every few hours—not just every day. They cannot be satisfied without their milk (food). That should be our attitude toward the Word. We should desire, yearn for, crave to know its truth and to make it a part of our being. It should be a priority in our lives. We should not be able to be satisfied without understanding it more and more and making it more and more a part of our being. Why? That is how we grow. Growth indicates a steady process that results in maturity.
1Pet. 2:3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
1Pet. 2:4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,
“If so be” – I think the better wording from the Greek would be “since, seeing that.”
The “living stone” - The word for stone indicates a millstone or stumbling stone. The next statement enforces that since it refers to the fact that men in general rejected Him. He became a stone of stumbling because the truth He taught exposed their false beliefs and didn’t adhere to their sacred traditions.
The word for chosen indicates favorite.
“precious” = valued, of high regard, dear, more honorable.
So (my paraphrase)—Since you have experienced the goodness and kindness of the LORD, Whom you came to as to the living stone of stumbling Who was rejected by men, the One Who was chosen of God because He was valued dearly and given a place of great honor……
1Pet. 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
“Ye” = believers, stones
“spiritual” = divinely supernatural. Stones are used for making strong buildings.
So I think we get a double meaning—We are meant to be the same type of “stumbling stone” that Jesus was by teaching His truth; and in the process we are to form a supernaturally strong structure or unit. Our purpose is also to function as a “holy priesthood.” The priest was the representative of the people before the LORD. As believers, we can now approach God personally on our own behalf or on the behalf of others. We are to offer up “spiritual sacrifices” that are inspired by the Divine at work in us. To me that involves anything we do that shows the selfless, unconditional love of Jesus toward others.
1Pet. 2:6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
The first phrase of this verse refers to the fact that Jesus’ coming to establish the foundation of the church was a fulfillment of scripture.
Isaiah 28:16 “Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.”
The place for the beginning of the church was identified—Zion (Jerusalem). Jesus, the stone of stumbling, was also the chief “corner stone,” the foundation stone upon which God would build a supernatural structure, the church (the body of believers).
Ephesians 2:20-22 “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.”
“elect” and “precious” – These words are used to emphasize the truth presented in verse 4. Jesus was God’s very best sent to provide a way of salvation for each one of us. He also provided the Holy Spirit to give us the necessary strength and power for serving Him while we are on this earth. Every person that believes on Jesus will occupy a position of honor; they will never be put to shame or disgrace in the eyes of God.
Ephesians 3:16 “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man….”
1Pet. 2:7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,
1Pet. 2:8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
Naturally, in the eyes of all believers Jesus is regarded as precious; He is given the highest honor and praise. Those who do not accept Him, the disobedient, reject this same Jesus. This was foretold by the psalmist.
Psalms 118:21–23 “I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD’S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.”
Their rejection doesn’t change the truth or His position one bit. He was made the chief cornerstone, a stone of stumbling (because they wanted to follow their own lusts and desires rather than His truth), and a rock of offence (“skandalon” – a stick for bait, a snare, a stumbling block), again because they didn’t like the “truth” He taught. They chose to ignore the truth, to do their own thing, to be disobedient.
The last phrase is a bit harder. The Strong’s entry for the word appointed is: 5087. ti÷qhmi tithemi, tith´-ay-mee…advise, appoint, bow, commit, conceive, give, x kneel down, lay (aside, down, up), make, ordain, purpose, put, set (forth), settle, sink down.
It seems to me that the last phrase is referring to the fact that they have prostrated and purposed themselves in a commitment to serve what is false as opposed to the truth.
In reading through this section again, it hit me that the last phrase of verse 8 was basically saying that the disobedient, which in context is in contrast to the believer, which means he is an unbeliever, was conceived with the purpose of his being a believer—a person in relationship with God as part of His family. That is hard to understand in light of the fact that God knew that more would reject Him than not. It was not His will for any to perish.
Matthew 18:14 “Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.”
2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
It was also His sovereign choice not to limit creation to those who would accept Him by faith. After that I claim Isaiah 55:9—“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my [God’s] ways higher than your ways.”
1Pet. 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
Meanings from Greek; additional from Webster’s in parenthesis:
chosen – elect, favorite (adopt)
generation - kin, family, offspring, kind (The body of those who are of the same genealogical rank or remove from an ancestor)
royal – royal, kingly (under the patronage of royalty)
priesthood – (order of men set apart for sacred offices)
holy – religious awe, sacred, an awful thing (set apart to the service or worship of God; spiritually whole, pure in heart, guiltless)
nation – a race, as of the same habit; a tribe (A part, or division, of the people of the earth, distinguished from the rest by common descent, language, or institutions)
peculiar – an acquisition, purchased, possession, saving (One’s own; belonging solely or especially to an individual; not possessed by others; of private, personal, or characteristic possession and use; not owned in common or in participation.)
people – (an aggregate of individuals forming a whole)
I just felt the need to look up all these words to try to get the full impact of why Peter was inspired to describe the believers in a variety of composite wholes.
At first glance it seems that the first unit describes our position in Jesus as adopted into the family. We are all adopted at the same level, as brothers and sisters—not some as cousins, aunts, uncles, or grandchildren, etc.—we are brothers and sisters in Jesus.
Our Father just happens to be the King of kings, and we are set apart to hold sacred offices, to act in special relationship to the King on behalf of ourselves and others—as priests.
We are bound together as a nation through a common belief system, faith in God. We are set apart to serve and worship God. This service and worship will draw us together as a spiritual whole when performed from a pure (genuine, sincere, clean) heart. We can worship and serve guiltlessbecause our sins are covered by the shed blood of Jesus.
We are a group of individuals purchased through the blood of Jesus for His possession. He is a jealous God and expects our undivided commitment to Him.
Exodus 34:14 “For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God….”
It seems that we all enjoy the part of being a child of The King, and we often live as though we have no other responsibilities. To whom much is given, much is required—and we have been given the greatest Gift and gifts. Our hearts should be so overflowing with love and gratitude that we are ready to do whatever will please and bring glory to The King—Our Father. We are to “shew forth” this love and gratitude and praise through how we live and what we say. Because of His love for us, He provided for our salvation through His only Son, and called us out of the darkness (bondage to sin) and into His marvelous, wonderful light (freedom to live in love and joy in victory over sin).
Wiersbe: “Each of these four pictures emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony. We belong to one family of God and share the same divine nature. We are living stones in one building and priests serving in one temple. We are citizens of the same heavenly homeland. It is Jesus Christ who is the source and center of this unity. If we center our attention and affection on Him, we will walk and work together; if we focus on ourselves, we will only cause division."
1Pet. 2:10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Peter is reminding the believers that they are part of a unique whole, a new creation (the church). They are now identified as “the people of God”--His unique possession. They were living in condemnation, sure judgment with no mercy; but as believers, sons of God, children of faith, they are recipients of His mercy and do not have to fear condemnation or judgment.
1Pet. 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
Peter loves these believers. Why? They are part of his spiritual family. He wants them to know that what he has to say is very important; so important that he is willing to humble himself and beg them to listen. It was interesting to look up the word for stranger and see “having a home nearby; an alien resident.” Pilgrims were identified as those “sojourning in a strange place; a resident alien.” They are both very close in meaning.
It might not be exactly how the theologians would look at it, but I thought of the fact that my real home is “nearby.” If my home is with Jesus, and He is dwelling in me in the person of the Holy Spirit, it can’t be far away. In light of that, I must remember that I am just a sojourner, a traveler, on the earth who is temporarily residing here among those who are not of my family. Unbelievers should be able to see a marked difference between my life and theirs. How? I should abstain from fleshly lusts, desires that result from my sin nature, desires that make me want to have or do what is forbidden according to God’s word. This is a result of the inner battle that goes on in our heart and mind because of our sinful nature and the attack of principalities and powers and rulers of the darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places.
Romans 7:22-23 “For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.”
Ephesians 6:12 “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
The instruction was to abstain—not try to abstain. Jesus has equipped us through the Holy Spirit to be victorious over the flesh if we are just willing to surrender our wills to Him.
1Corinthians 10:13 “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
1Pet. 2:12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
“honest” – “Kalos” - Beautiful, good, valuable, virtuous
Sometimes I am really surprised when I see the choices of words for definitions in the Greek. I think of honest as having to do with truth telling and lack of deceit. The Greek certainly adds to that thought. Our conversation, or way of life, should be regarded as a beautiful, valuable thing as compared to the Gentiles (nonbelievers, pagans). The Greek for the word Gentiles in this verse is the same as the word for nations in verse 9 – ethnos. The manner of life of a believer should be in direct contrast to the way that evildoers live. They may call you evil and non-tolerant and narrow minded etc., but your good works among them will not be able to be denied. They will bring glory to God “in the day of visitation.”
I’ve always assumed that “the day of visitation” refers to the great white throne judgment. The only other place this phrase is used in the King James is Isaiah 10:3 “And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation which shall come from far? to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your glory?”
The context in Isaiah is talking about God’s judgment on Israel. The Greek for the word “visitation” indicates “inspection (for relief), a visiting, an overseeing.” So I think it more likely that it refers to the time of tribulation. This may be reaching a bit, but when we are taken out at the rapture it will certainly usher in a time of reflective inspection in light of the judgment coming on earth. Hopefully, our lives before others will cause them to recognize the truth of our faith and the basis for how we lived our lives that will bring glory to God and result in many turning to God at that time.
We don’t know when that time will be, but the truth remains. Our lives are to be set apart from the world and should glorify God with the hope that the lost will see the difference and want what we have.
Romans 12:2 “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
1Pet. 2:13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
1Pet. 2:14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
The believers are told to submit, be subordinate to, obey the institutions of man—heads of government, appointees of the government, elected officials. Why? For the LORD’s sake. He has ordained these institutions for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do right—good doers. These verses go hand-in-hand with the first few verses of Romans 13: “ Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God……”
When we submit to those in power here on earth, we are showing our submission to God.
It’s important to note that this instruction is given without qualification. The application is to whatever governmental authority is in control—not just those that believe in God. Whether they know it or believe it, God will hold them accountable for how they treat those that are part of His family of faith. The only time we are to disobey the ruling authorities is if they command us to go against God’s law or dishonor His temple (our bodies).
Acts 5:29 “We ought to obey God rather than men.”
1 Corinthians 3:16–17 “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”
1Pet. 2:15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:
Peter states unequivocally that it is the will of God for us to be involved in “well doing.” We are to live as examples of righteousness, love, service, and obedience. Why? To render speechless or muzzle those who speak with lack of knowledge, those who are foolish, rash, unwise and unbelieving. Our lives are to be lived in submission before the LORD, which includes submission to those in God-appointed authority over us.
1Pet. 2:16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
This life of obedience and submission is to be lived as the choice of a free man, a decision made from the heart to honor the Savior. We as believers are living under grace, not under the law. Our lives should show forth God’s grace in the way we act toward others.
I thought the entry in Strong’s for “cloke” was interesting: “1942. ejpika¿luma epikaluma, ep-ee-kal´-oo-mah; from 1943; a covering, i.e. (figuratively) pretext:—cloke.”
Our ability to choose freely and to do what is right and good should be done in a spirit of servanthood before the LORD, not as a cloak or pretext for accomplishing our own “wicked” purposes. I can’t help but think of so many in the public eye who seem to do just that. I get such a check in my spirit regarding many of the popular TV evangelists. It’s not just those with high visibility though. Bottom line is that there are many in our churches that use their “Christianity” for personal promotion and/or profit.
We are to serve, love, and submit from a pure heart as unto the LORD.
1Pet. 2:17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
Peter gives four short directives as he continues the subject of living a life that glorifies and pleases God.
Honor all men—The word for honor means to value. The directive is that all men have value. Throughout history man has been notorious for the lack of value placed on the lives of others—especially those different from him. In this day and age, more and more “experts” are coming out with statements and actions that place little value on human life—especially regarding the unborn, old, infirm, and the mentally and physically disabled. Peter emphasizes that ALL men (persons) have value.
Love the brotherhood—The word for love is agapao. We tend to think that kind of love is reserved only for our biological or adoptive family and maybe a few close friends. Peter is reminding the believers that they are family and should love each other with the love of Christ.
Fear God—The word for fear implies just that as well as reverence and awe. I think we need to remember that Almighty God is a Person to fear when we choose to disobey Him. As believers, we don’t have to fear losing His love—but we should fear consequences for our sin. Sin has consequences. Because God loves us, He doesn’t protect us from those consequences. He is consistent—not “wishy washy” like most earthly parents. This should be a motivating factor to keep us on the right track. Fear promotes an awe and reverence for the One who will always respond with righteous judgment and chastisement because of His love for us. This brings to mind Revelation 3:19, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.”
Honor the king—Again, we are to value and respect the one in authority over us (as stated in verses 13 and 14 above).
The part that is causing me to think awhile is why Peter listed the directives in the order given. My thought would have been to start with fearing God for sure. I feel like I am missing something.
1Pet. 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
It was interesting to look up the main words in this verse in the Greek. The word for servant implied co-resident or menial servant; the word for master also included the possibility of reference to the husband as well as the normal understanding of lord or master. Basically, this verse is talking to everyone in the household—from wife to servant. The husband or man has been given the position of authority by God. All in the household are to submit to the “master” with all fear (the Greek for this word implied true fear—to be put to flight, dread, terror—as well as respect). Submission and obedience are to be given to the froward (crooked, perverse, unreasonable) as well as to the good master. This is a hard truth—especially in today’s society. As we go on into the next verses the reasoning becomes clearer.
1Pet. 2:19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
The Greek for the word “thankworthy” is charis—grace, kindness, blessing, benefit, gift, joy. This verse acknowledges that there will be people, including Christians, who suffer unjustly in this world. Again, our society doesn’t want to accept a God Who will allow that. As a society, we refuse to accept the fact that it is often our sin or the sins of others that cause such suffering. But Peter is writing to believers who are supposed to have higher understanding through the ministry of the Spirit. He is saying that you exhibit the grace of God when you endure unjust circumstances through obedience to His teaching. In this case, it is being obedient to an unjust or unreasonable master or husband because that is what God has directed us to do. He is the one who establishes authority and power.
There are some verses in Luke that apply here:
Luke 6:32-36 “For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”
1Pet. 2:20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
Wow—the word for “acceptable” in this verse is charis—grace, kindness, blessing, benefit, gift, joy. The word for “buffeted” is kolaphizo—to strike with the fist, to treat harshly. The word for “faults” indicates to “miss the mark, to sin.”
Peter is saying that when you are subject to harsh treatment for your sin and you endure it, knowing that you were deserving of punishment, it is no reason to think you deserve any special recognition. Sin brings consequences. BUT—when you are treated harshly and have done nothing to deserve that treatment, and you endure and continue to obey and show respect to the “master,” then you are showing the grace of God at work in your life. That is a powerful statement to your commitment to obedience to the LORD and a powerful testimony to those who behold your actions and attitude.
Even as I write this I am having trouble digesting some of the thoughts running through my head. I think the key here is the fact that you are submitting to God instead of to a person. When our faith is placed in God and we are obedient to Him, He will work out His precious will in our life and be glorified in the process. Nothing can touch us outside of His permission.
Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
That is an easy statement to make for one who lives with a wonderful Christian husband, but how much harder that truth must be for a believer who might not enjoy that blessing. (I can’t help but put this truth more in connection with husband/wife, since that is the scenario that most impacted me as I processed the truth I believe God is teaching in these verses.)
I think the key truth in this verse reveals a real lack of faith in the lives of many Christians today. We are so quick to look for the “easy” way out, or the way that avoids any pain or suffering. The key is that we are looking to solve the problems ourselves instead of really trusting God to work out His will in and through the situation. I wonder how many blessings have been missed because of this lack of faith. I wonder how many times we have deprived God of the opportunity for great glory and testimony.
1Pet. 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
Why were we called? To follow in the steps of Jesus. What did those steps include? Suffering unjustly in submission to the Father’s will. He set the example we are to follow.
1Pet. 2:22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
Whose example are we to follow? That of the Christ who NEVER sinned; He never missed the mark in any way. There was no deceit in His words or actions. He always spoke the truth.
1Pet. 2:23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
When Jesus was reviled (abused), He didn’t feel compelled to “give as good as He got.“ When He was suffering unjustly, He didn’t offer up any threats to those in the position of power and authority. What did He do? He gave Himself up; He submitted Himself—to whom? To “Him that judgeth righteously.” He was placing all His faith in the Father to accomplish His purpose throughout the whole terrible time of abuse and suffering.
Matthew 26:39 “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”
It should be noted that Peter is basically testifying as an eyewitness to the abusive treatment Jesus suffered after He was arrested.
1Pet. 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.
“dead” – to be removed from, absent
My paraphrase—Jesus assumed the burden and judgment of our sins in His physical body on the cross. He was the unblemished sacrifice required by God’s
righteousness. Why did He do this? To separate ME from the burden and judgment of MY sin. To free ME to live a righteous (holy, just, innocent) life before the Father.
2Corinthians 5:21 “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”
Isaiah 53:5 “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”
1Pet. 2:25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
Again, Peter is talking to believers; so he could use the past tense. They were like sheep that had wandered off from the fold. They had already recognized their sinful condition and had repented (turned back) to the Shepherd (the one who tends, feeds and guards the flock) and Bishop (guardian, overseer) of our souls (our eternal being). They had embraced Jesus as their Savior.