Finally, now that my computer up and running and Rich has been stacking these lessons for me to publish here on our Blog, I hope to get caught up with all the 1 Peter lessons. Some of them I had already sent out but I thought I would send the whole book out as one Post on the blog as it has been so long since I posted the last lesson.. If any questions on the lessons, please let us know and always feel free to pass these on if you feel someone might benefit from them. We pray God will use this become what we could even hope or pray for.
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 1:1-12
Peter is writing a letter to people that are going through difficult times. They are not only going through difficult times, they are going through them in a place that is somewhat unfamiliar to them. They are not presently going through the atrocities that will be in the near future under the hand of Emperor Nero, but they are going through difficulties that are real and present in their day to day lives. This social and religious persecution is not just difficult things in their lives; it is a difficult life because of their allegiance to Christ. What will Peter write to them that will make a difference?
I. The Writer and the Addressees 1 Peter 1:1-2
a. While some have noted the quality of the Greek used in the letter as a possible proof that Peter didn’t write this letter, the letter itself in Verse 1 gives us the writer. His name is Peter, the apostle Peter that was an early follower amongst the apostles of the Lord Jesus. He is known to be impulsive and sometimes loud-mouthed, but here he will live up to his reputation as the Apostle of Hope. 1 and 2 Peter are the two letters that bear his name in our New Testament, and hope will be themes in both of them.
b. The addressees are a “scattered” group” of believers, both Jew and Gentile, that are away from home due to persecution and a dispersion from their homeland. They are now living somewhere between 500-800 miles from home. The five names that are mentioned are Roman provinces in modern-day Turkey.
c. But it is also interesting to note that these people are “aliens”, strangers, foreigners, and pilgrims to the places that they are living. This has the idea of geography, as well as mindset and custom. They are not only “aliens” because they are not in their home towns or country. They are also “aliens” because they are believers. Their home has now been secured in heaven. That is their home and their comfort. They are not there yet though, and times are tough.
d. The end of Verse 1 takes us right into Verse 2 where some incredible theology and affirmation is coming from the pen of Peter. Verse 1 ends with the word “chosen” or “elect”. These are salvation words, and Peter will use salvation as the first affirmation and encouragement to these that are currently suffering for their faith. While Peter is not trying to unpack the entire doctrine of foreknowledge and election, he is trying to share with his readers that God has had them in mind from eternity past. And if He has had them in mind from eternity past, He still has them in mind as they go through difficulties for their faith.
e. There are some great terms in this verse that are worth looking at:
i. The foreknowledge of God – This is not that God has known from eternity past who would choose Him. It is the fact that in eternity past, He chose them. Our salvation is not something that we merit or that we will even choose in our wisdom somewhere along our lives. His foreknowledge, which is not able to be completely understood, is the fact that He chose us because of His love and His grace. While difficult to understand, it is great news that can help sustain us in our most difficult times.
ii. The sanctifying work of the Spirit – It is great to know that the blessed Holy Spirit is helping us in our maturity and our growth towards God. The believer will spend his or her entire life relinquishing more and more of the ownership of their life to Christ through the sanctifying work of the Spirit.
iii. Obedience to Christ – This is the evidence of the Spirit’s work in the life of the believer. While obedience to Christ is not the means of our salvation, it is without question the evidence of it. The trend line of our obedience should and will go up as we understand more and more of the saving work that was accomplished for us at Calvary. The “sprinkling of His blood” is reminiscent of the Old Testament system of sacrifice, but in this context demonstrates the benefits of Christ’s redemption that are being applied to His people.
f. As this introductory section concludes, we have Peter offering “grace and peace” to those that are following Christ and being obedient to Him, even as difficulty has stricken their lives.
g. We must remember as a rule of Bible reading and understanding to consider both the beginnings and the endings of the book or letter that is under consideration. These two places are often full of helpful insights to the understanding of the entirety of the writing. This work of the entire Triune Godhead in salvation will be a major contribution made by Peter to the way to travel through difficult times in both the lives of those to whom he is currently writing and to those of us that will consider this letter and its application in our own lives.
II. A Prayer of Thanksgiving 1 Peter 1:3-5
a. As Peter continues the thoughts from above, he can do nothing more at this point in his letter than pray a prayer of thanksgiving to the One who has made this salvation possible. Verse 3 begins with blessing, glory and praise, being offered to God the Father who has made salvation possible in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ.
b. It was not and continues to not be our merit or activities and obedience that makes salvation and sanctification a possibility; it is the Father’s mercy. The verse says that it is this mercy that caused us to be born again. What are we being “born again” to? The verse tells us that it is a “living hope”. And what is it that makes it a living hope? The verse again doesn’t make us guess. It is the resurrection of Jesus Christ that offers us a living hope.
c. This living hope is the only hope that we have in times of extreme difficulty. And the only One that can provide a living hope is One who is alive! Hope is not just wishful thinking. It is something that, if it is to last and work, must be based on something bigger and better than our best efforts and positive thinking.
d. What will be the result of this salvation that provides us with a “living hope” during our most difficult days? Verse 4 tells that we will obtain an “inheritance”. This kind of talk is very family-ish and speaks to the fact that in salvation we are made heirs of the One who has adopted us. That is an incredible lesson for another day, but what are the characteristics of this inheritance?
i. It is imperishable – It won’t die. It will not decay in either its essence or its continuance.
ii. It is undefiled – It is unsoiled, that is, pure.
iii. It will not fade away – It will have clarity and quality at all times, especially the times when you might expect it to go away.
iv. It is reserved in heaven for you – It is divinely kept for us.
e. What else is available to the one that is going through difficulty? Verse 5 tells us that this inheritance is protected by the power of God. Wow!! It is not protected by our power and I’m glad, aren’t you? This verse is a two-sided coin in that our inheritance and its perseverance is protected by the power of God and through our own faith. We, in fact, can have a solidifying effect in our lives as we demonstrate faith in the One who is protecting our inheritance from corruption or loss.
f. What an incredible prayer to God and reminder for those that are suffering and being addressed with this letter. But also what a reminder of the place that our salvation and our faith in God has during times of difficulty and even outright persecution.
III. The Place and the Purpose of Trials 1 Peter 1:6-9
a. With the provision for trials and persecution noted in the above verses, Peter now moves on to discuss the place of trials in our lives. He reminds us again as Verse 6 opens of the great rejoicing that should accompany the knowledge of the truths articulated in the first paragraph of his letter.
b. Now, in Verses 6b-9, Peter will share with his readers some important truths about persecution and trials. These truths will serve us and can help us to move forward in the fact of our salvation and can even lead to joy in their midst.
i. Trials are not forever – Look at Verse 6. It says that “for a little while” trials may come upon you. In light of eternity and the considering the eternality of salvation, any trials that come our way are just temporary.
ii. Trials are sometimes necessary – Again, look at Verse 6. It says that “if necessary” trials sometimes come into our lives. Why would trials come into the lives of people that love Him? Sometimes they protect us from a trajectory of sin that we are moving on. Sometimes they remind us of our need for Him. Sometimes they are the results of the Fall and its consequences. There can be many reasons for the necessity of trials. While we do not always know the reasons why, we must trust God and His goodness in allowing them to come our way.
iii. There are lots of kinds of trials – One more look at Verse 6. It speaks of “various trials”. There are lots of different types of trials, but only one true and lasting solution to making it through them!
iv. Trials can prove our faith – Look at Verse 7. Many things are “tested” to prove their strength and their authenticity. In a similar way, difficult times can offer, like nothing else, a clear reading on our trust and our faith in Jesus Christ. This was the way that gold was purified and prepared for usage. The fire was turned up and the dross was scraped away.
v. Trials can even bring praise, glory, and honor to Christ – Again, look at Verse 7. Ultimately, trials and difficulty along with the provision and the help of our Savior will bring glory to His name!
vi. Trials help us to love and believe in Him – Look at Verse 8. Our trials can offer incredible opportunities, properly considered, to learn more about Him which will result in more love and belief in Him.
vii. Trials can produce joy – Look at Verse 8. I didn’t say happiness! Joy is that unique sense that a believer in Christ can have even during the most difficult of times. It is based not on circumstances, but on truth and provision.
viii. Trials will not have the final word – Look at Verse 9. Even with the difficulty of trials and the beating that they sometimes put on the believer, they will not win in the end! The outcome of our faith in trials is the salvation of our souls. God does this, but our faith in the finished work of Christ at the Cross and His resurrection is the ultimate road to recovery from the trials that come into our lives.
IV. Salvation Under Consideration 1 Peter 1:10-12
a. So, how did this work before the earthly ministry of Christ? Verses 10-11 tell us that the idea and the reality of salvation has been something that has been considered and longed for from the time of the prophets. They were in fact so interested and desirous of the knowledge of this incredible provision that they made “careful searches and inquiries” into it. They, through revelation and inspiration were able to consider a grace that would not be fully realized in their lifetimes.
b. The next verse, Verse 12, tells us that they even realized that they were not serving themselves with all of their searches and inquiries. They were serving us! The ones that faithfully teach us and preach to us are a reminder of the announcements and the work of the prophets before them. And this type of preaching and teaching is empowered and resourced by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven to inhabit, comfort and assist the one that faithfully trusts in God for his salvation and his help.
c. There is an interesting last few words to this section. The text says that these things related to salvation are things that even the angels long to look at. Is this true? Is it true that the angels are interested in the provision of God through Jesus Christ for the salvation of those that by faith call upon His name? Look at Luke 15:10. It says that the angels rejoice over one sinner that repents. WOW!!!
V. An Application For All Of Us
a. Those that are going through times of difficulty because of their faith have the fact of their salvation in Christ to help them through.
b. Trials can and do serve a purpose in the life of a believer.
c. The prophets of old and even the angels were and are interested in the salvation and the faith of men and women of all ages.
“Re-focused by Salvation”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 1:13-25
With the power of their salvation explained in contrast to the limitations of the trials in their lives, Peter now moves to something that at first seems very unnatural to do. And he’s right; what he will ask these believers that are under persecution to do is unnatural and even impossible in their own power. He will ask them, because of the information in the preceding paragraph, to consider and respond obediently to the Source of their salvation (God) and the means of their salvation (the word of God) instead of being overwhelmed by the troubles that are all around them.
I. The Source Of Their Salvation 1 Peter 1:13-21
a. As often occurs after a doctrinal section of Scripture, a section follows that is more application-oriented. We have that transition on display as Verse 13 begins. The “therefore” that begins the verse is a giveaway to this pattern. In light of the things that were just said, there will be an application that will demonstrate the previous truth as it is lived out.
b. The immediate appeal from Peter to these persecuted believers is to “prepare your mind for action”. I am immediately struck by this appeal in that often when people are going through difficulty, action is the last thing on their minds. Often difficulties “freeze” us from action as discouragement grows and time goes by. But Peter says that the believer that is putting the truths of the earlier verses to work will literally “gird up the loins” of his or her mind for action instead of inactivity.
c. Secondly, the verse appeals to the reader to “keep sober in spirit”. The idea is to be calm and collected in spirit. How can someone do that in the midst of trouble? The verse continues with an answer to that difficult question. It says to “fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ”. We have seen that wording in verse 7 related to the praise and glory that can be offered toward Christ during even the most difficult times in our lives. There is both a “now” and a “not yet” aspect of provision in this verse. We can praise and honor Him now and we will praise and honor Him later.
d. Romans 12:2 is directly in mind as Verse 14 unfolds. Peter continues to instruct and appeal to these “children of obedience” by telling them to not “conform” to the previous way of life that you embraced in your ignorance. Before knowing Christ, there is an ignorance of the truths that were described in verses 1-12. But now, these believers are both in difficulty and knowledgeable of all that is available to them in Christ. Verse 15 continues with an astounding call to be like “the Holy One”. Who is this? None other than God Himself. WOW!! Really? I used to compare myself to those around me in determining direction, but now the call is much higher. I am, as a believer, to “be holy in all of my behavior”. Even in tough times? Especially in tough times! The One who “called you” is also the One that will supply you during the days of difficulty and persecution.
e. This holiness that is being called for is further explained in Verse 16. The appeal and call by Peter to these believers is to be holy because He is holy. This quote is from Leviticus 11:44, 19:2, and 20:7. The idea is that of separation. God is separate from the things that are base and evil, and so should those that follow Him be. Believers should be separating themselves with the Spirit’s provision from the world’s power and appeal, and setting themselves apart to God and His ways and plans.
f. As we continue in Peter’s appeal and explanation, Verses 17-19 again offer some language that we have already heard in the letter. Verse 17 is a reminder of Matthew 6:9 in that it shares with us the correct and appropriate way to call out to God. That way is “Father”. If we are children of the One who judges impartially each man’s work as to its heavenly value, than we should conduct ourselves with “fear” while we are here on earth. Remember that believers have already been called “aliens”, “strangers”, and “pilgrims” which clearly reminds us that this earth is not our home. This “fear” is not terror, but awe and reverence for the One that changed everything in our lives.
g. The reader is reminded again in Verse 18 that his or her redemption was not made with temporary, even valued temporary things. The reader’s redemption was made from the futile ways of their forefathers with blood according to Verse 19. Who’s blood, and what kind of blood is it? John 1:29 tells us that this lamb is the Lord Jesus Christ. And so does the verse before us. This blood is also noted as “precious”. One meaning of that word is lovely and loveable. But another meaning may be the idea here. “Precious” may also have the idea of “rare”. There is no other blood like the blood of Jesus as it relates to redemption! The lamb must be “unblemished and spotless”, so only His blood will do.
h. God the Father knew before the foundation of the world and chose before the foundation of the world that Jesus Christ would need to be the Source of our redemption and salvation. Verses 20-21 remind the reader that He has appeared both in eternity past and in the present days for the sake of those that would call on Him and receive the gift of eternal life in Him. Jesus Christ deserves our praise and our glory, but God has also given Him glory according to John 17:5, and 24. Our faith and our hope are in Him! Hallelujah!!
II. The Means Of Their Salvation 1 Peter 1:22-25
a. The appeal of Peter continues in Verse 22 with a call to obedience being repeated that will live itself out in love, even fervent love, for the brethren. This kind of love comes from a heart devoted to Christ.
b. We know the Source of this salvation, the person of Jesus Christ and His finished work at Calvary and subsequent resurrection from the grave. But what is the means of this salvation?
c. The final section of this chapter is given to the answer to this question. Verses 23-25a tell the reader that the means of our salvation is the living and enduring word of God. It is not a seed that will perish; it is a seed that is imperishable. It will live through even the most ruthless attacks and persecutions. Isaiah 40:6-8 are loosely quoted here to demonstrate and illustrate the enduring nature of this word of God. It will last through what? Everything! It will last how long? Forever!!
d. This “enduring word” is the one that is being preached to all that are readers of this letter that know Him, according to Verse 25b.
III. An Application For All Of Us
a. The God that is the Source of our salvation, and the word of God which is the means of our salvation, is more permanent and powerful than any trial or persecution that will come our way. Count on it!!!
“Newborns, Stones, and a Chosen People”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 2:1-10
With the change of a chapter, we have to remind ourselves that this is a letter, an epistle, to these hurting believers in modern-day Turkey. They are struggling with local religious and social persecution for their faith and need the challenging and encouraging words of Peter. He has been faithful thus far to not “major” on the problem, but to “major” on the solution, Jesus and His enduring Word. Let’s continue to see his counsel to these that are hurting, as well as to readers like us in the days that we are living in today.
I. Remember the Setting Review
a. Thus far, we have been introduced to both the writer of the letter and its recipients. Peter, the Apostle of Hope, is writing this letter from a place referred to as “Babylon”, probably the city of Rome. He is writing to believers, both Jew and Gentile that are scattered from their homeland to what we would see as modern-day Turkey. They are saved, but they are struggling with localized religious and social persecution because of their faith in Christ.
b. Peter wastes no time in reminding them of both the permanence of their salvation and the temporary nature of their sufferings. In light of their position in Christ, Peter calls them to demonstrate a life of recognition toward who God is and obedience toward Him even during difficult times.
c. He concludes the chapter with a reminder of the “source” of their salvation, Christ Himself and the “means” of their salvation, the enduring Word of God. This word is the very same word that had been faithfully preached to them along the way.
II. A Challenge to “Put Off” and “Put On” 1 Peter 2:1-3
a. Sometimes when we make a chapter change, we are led to believe that we have changed subjects and sometimes even thoughts. But in this case, nothing could be further from the truth. With the very first word of the new chapter, we are reminded that what is going to be said is linked in an important way to that which was just written. “Therefore” is the overwhelming hint that the thought of the previous chapter will continue right into our present consideration of the text. We are going to be challenged to put something off and to put something on in the next three verses. This is important information for both the reader of the time that is under persecution and hurting and the contemporary reader that is under attack because of his or her faith.
b. What is it that Verse 1 tells us should be “put off”? The challenge from Peter is to “put aside” all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy and slander. When people are going through difficult times, they often began to get irritable and to wear their difficulties on their sleeves. Peter understands this and challenges them to not allow this to happen to them. To allow these negatives to have their effects on you or your church during difficult times is to only magnify the problems and to reduce the possibility of seeing the brethren as any part of the helpful reminders of Christ needed to move forward.
c. But Peter also understands that when something is “put off”, there is an important “putting on” that must also occur or sin and its results will be quickly having to be dealt with again. So Verse 2 offers us a word picture that is both very descriptive and helpful as we consider the help we need for going forward, especially during difficult times. The picture that is offered is one of a newborn baby that is singularly focused on only one thing, milk. While 1 Corinthians 3:2 speaks of milk as something that is the precursor to the meat of God’s Word and therefore only drank by infants, Peter offers milk as something that will never be outgrown. He says that “like” a newborn baby, not “as” a newborn baby. In the same way that a newborn longs after his or her mother’s milk, we that are believers should long after the Word of God.
i. Do you long after God’s Word in this way?
ii. Do you find difficulties and tough times helping you to draw nearer or further from God’s Word?
d. The connecting thoughts of chapters 1 and the beginning of chapter 2 are “born again” in 1:23, the enduring word” in 1:25 and the “newborn” and the “pure milk of the word” in 2:2. There is a result of longing for the milk of the Word at the end of the verse and continuing into Verse 3. It is that as we long for and partake of the pure milk of the word; growth (sanctification) is guaranteed to those that have “tasted” the kindness of the Lord in relation to salvation.
III. Connection 1: “Living Stones in a “Spiritual House” 1 Peter 2:4-8
a. Following the initial challenge of this chapter to his readers, Peter now continues by making the first of two connections to Christ for those that are His own. He tells his readers that as they come to Christ, both in salvation and in a continuing way, they are a part of a spiritual house that has Christ as its foundation and its capstone.
b. We must understand that in coming to Christ, we are coming to One that has been both rejected by men and is choice and precious in the sight of God. Verse 4 tells us this and reminds us that the world has very strong and violent reactions to the same Jesus that we love and count on during difficult times. And did you notice that the choice and precious stone is also ALIVE!
c. That will be very important as we now move to Verse 5. As we are connected to Christ, we are now considered as “living”. The Bible uses this language of “stones” in it imagery often. Matthew 16:12 speaks of the “rock” that the church will be built on. That rock is not Peter, although Peter is the one that Jesus is addressing. That rock is Jesus Christ and the truth of the Gospel. That truth will be the foundation of the church and it will endure forever and ever. But now we have Peter speaking to these hurting believers, telling them that as they come to Him they will be transformed into “living stones”. This verse also notes that when we come to Him, we become a part of a “holy priesthood”. We sometimes speak of the “priesthood of the believer” in our churches today. This term means that we have access to Him, and we are able to make sacrifices to Him that are acceptable to Him. In the Old Testament economy, this could only be done through the High Priest.
d. As Verses 6-8 unfold, we are pointed back to the Old Testament to further make the point already stated. First of all, Verse 6 points us to Isaiah 28:16. In it, Christ is referred to as a “cornerstone” and those that are in Him will not be disappointed, put to shame or disturbed. Verses 7-8 offer a contrast by noting that the value of the precious stone is for the believer. But it continues by noting that for the unbeliever this “precious stone” is a stone of stumbling, offense and ultimately even death. The reader must understand that to reject this “precious stone” is to appoint oneself and even be appointed to death and separation from God.
IV. Connection 2: “A Chosen Race, A Royal Priesthood, A Holy Nation, and A People for God’s Own Possession” 1 Peter 2:9-10
a. With the conclusion of the thought related in verse 8 to separation and death, Peter now reminds his hurting brethren that they are not in this group of separated and dead folks. He begins Verse 9 with my favorite word in the Bible: BUT. In contrast to dead and separated, these folks are a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a people for God’s own possession”. WOW!!! That sounds so much better than separated and dead.
b. In the Old Testament, Israel was called God’s chosen people. But now in the New Testament, believers are referred to as chosen. But as this thought is unfolded, we are neither to believe that the church is Israel OR that the church replaces Israel in the plans of God. The functions of Israel in the OT were to uniquely “proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called them out”. In the present time, this opportunity and duty is being done by all believers. In the future, Israel will again be used by God to bless the world.
c. As we close out this section, we note from the end of Verse 9 and the entirety of Verse 10 that there was a time when the truths of a “spiritual house” and a “chosen race” were not true. It was Him that called you out of darkness and into “His” marvelous light. At one point, they were not a people, but now they are the people of God! And they had not received mercy, but now they had received mercy! This language, taken from Hosea 2:23, offers a sober reminder of the position of all believers before coming to Christ.
d. From here, Peter is going to being offering a continuing challenge toward moving forward from this positional truth. It will push not only his readers of that day, but readers that are believers from all generations.
V. An Application For All Of Use
a. The enduring Word of God is the platform and the place of challenge related to dealing with difficulties and persecutions.
b. The believer must desire the Word of God, especially during times of difficulty and persecution.
c. When believers come to Him for salvation, they join an ever-growing “spiritual house” and a “chosen race”.
d. As believers continue coming to Him in sanctification, they are assured of growth and help for even the most difficult times in life.
“Our Behavior Makes A Difference!”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 2:11-25
As we proceed along to the next section of chapter 2, we cannot forget what we have just learned from the above verses. These persecuted believers have been challenged, in light of the permanence of both Christ and salvation, to “proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light”. So how does the reader both then and now do that? How do believers live, especially during difficult times, and how does God view this behavior? That’s the subject of this concluding section of chapter 2.
I. Our Behavior Can Have An Effect On Non-Believers 1 Peter 2:11-12
a. It is noteworthy that Peter begins this section with a wonderful reminder of who he is speaking with; a group that Peter will refer to as “the beloved”. Often we center our attention as believers on the action items that are behavior driven and impossible in our own flesh. But before we read the “what” of the verse, we have to take a look at the “who” he is speaking to.
b. Peter is speaking to people that are not only living through difficult times, but are also people that are the King’s Kids! Verse 11 tells us that these people are believers that belong to Christ and they are not only precious to God but to him as well. As someone who loves them, he appeals to them to demonstrate this connection to both Christ and Peter going forward. But he also reminds them they are “aliens and strangers” here on earth. As much as these persecuted believers are to attach themselves to God, they are to not attach themselves to this world. They are citizens of another place and will ultimately not reside in this present place.
c. In light of their citizenship in another place, they are neither to attach themselves to this earth physically, they are not to attach themselves to the behaviors that are done by those that attach themselves to this world. There are “fleshly lusts” that not only come from the outside, but also work from the inside out. Peter urges these people to abstain (“hold oneself constantly back from”) from these outward behaviors that would not only harm them but also those that don’t believe around them. There is a “war” going on against the souls of all believers, so to realize this is to remind us that we are “soldiers” involved in this war.
d. There is an ongoing situation noted as Verse 12 begins. It is the idea of “keeping” our behavior excellent among the Gentiles. This is not a one-time thing. This is a lifestyle that will demand the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in each of these precious saints. It is clear that the believer’s behavior, especially during difficult times, can and will have an effect on those around them, whether believers or unbelievers.
e. Again, this particular verse is speaking to the effect of an accurate demonstration, a proclaiming of His excellencies, of God’s provision as a powerful witness to the unbelieving community that surrounds the believer. These “Gentiles” are not to be recognized as a nationality, but a group that is not Christian. These Gentiles may have even been the first to ridicule and slander the believers, but the believers “good deeds” when seen by these unbelievers, will have an impact (witness) that can glorify God. This “day of visitation” noted at the end of the verse could be the time when Christ will ultimately return for His own and all will bow the knee and call Him Savior. But I rather think that this is a reference to the time when God visits and saves the unbeliever. This thought comes from the verse itself which says that the unbeliever “observes them” and still have opportunity to “call on the name of the Lord”. We must realize that we not only witness with our words, but with our actions as well.
II. Our Behavior Honors God And Those Around Us 1 Peter 2:13-20
a. As we move into the next section, we are struck immediately in Verses 13-14 with a word that most of us are repelled by: SUBMIT. This word strikes terror in the hearts of a people that have been taught that their “rights” trump everything when it comes to behavior. And this submission is connected to the Lord, thus making submission an act of obedience to not only the human recipients of this gesture, but to the Lord as well.
b. So who is the target group that the believer is to submit to? It is none other than “every human institution”, that is all human authority that has been placed over us by God. WOW! This is reminiscent of Romans 13 in its content and its instruction. The reader is quickly offered not only the admonition to follow “kings” and “governors”, but also the reason why. All human government was established by God for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those that do right.
c. The next thought, in Verse 15, really drives home the thought that in this obedience to human authorities we are not only accomplishing a part of the “will of God”, but we are also offering a powerful witness to those that are without Christ. Do you see your obedience to human institutions as a way to ultimately obey your Savior?
d. Peter continues his thoughts in Verse 16 by reminding those that think obedience takes away freedom that a clear understanding of freedom in Christ is important to clear application of the admonition above. In Christ we are free, but what are we free to do? Are we free to do whatever we want? And whenever we want? NO! We are free in Christ so that we can now be a slave to Him!! We have been freed from the slavery of sin so that we can ultimately change our alliance and our master to the One who has His own glory and our good in mind. Sometimes we see the Christian claiming “freedom in Christ” as a reason to continue doing things that they enjoy most or that give them the most satisfaction. This is a misunderstanding of freedom in Christ in that the focus of our desires after salvation is not toward ourselves but Christ and His plans for our lives.
e. In Verse 17, we have a four-fold admonition explaining what this life “proclaiming the excellencies of Him” will look like.
i. Honor all people – All people are created in the image of God, and thus should be honored and valued.
ii. Love the brethren – Beyond merely valuing, there is an additional command to love (want God’s best for) those that are of the family of God.
iii. Fear God – This fear is not a terror, but instead is a reverence and an awe of the One who is all.
iv. Honor the king – Note that the king is not to be feared, only honored. Matthew 22:21 reminds us that we are to “render unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s”. This reminder is that ultimately we are to obey God even over our human authorities. We honor our human leaders because God has ultimately put them in place over us as well as to demonstrate the value of leadership and oversight in our lives.
f. If we had some level of difficulty in embracing the call to obedience toward our human authorities, some of which have not “earned” our obedience due to poor leadership or character, we will really have a hard time being referred to as “servants” or “slaves”. Verse 18 changes the focus of our obedience to those that are our employers and bosses. But note the call to obedience: it is not only to the boss who is good and gentle. This obedience is also to be extended to the boss who is “unreasonable”. What???!!!
g. The “why” to this call to obedience follows in Verse 19. The reason for this obedience is that it “finds favor”. When we suffer unjustly at the hand of an unreasonable boss it finds favor both with God and the one observing this obedience. Verse 20 continues the thought by noting that there is no credit accomplished when we suffer from harsh treatment due to our own sin and wrong behavior. But when you suffer patiently and endure it instead, you find the smile and favor of the God who loves you and seeks to have not only His glory but also your good accomplished in and around you.
III. His Behavior Is Our Example And Our Salvation 1 Peter 2:21-25
a. Peter begins Verse 21 with a stark reminder of our calling. We were not called to comfort, we were called to obey and to holiness. The verse says that part of our calling in this world is tied up in suffering, sometimes even unjustly. Is this a part of the Christian life that you have embraced with much enthusiasm? Me neither! But it is true and we are reminded of the One who suffered first and the One who suffered most to not only leave us an example, but to save us as well.
b. Isaiah 53:9 is quoted as Verses 22-24 unfold. We have clear statement of the sinless life of Christ. He was mistreated, threatened, and ultimately died at the hands of “unreasonable” people, but He never sought revenge and payback. Instead, He entrusted Himself to the One who judges rightly and righteously, God Himself. But in addition to offering this incredible example for us to follow that love Him, He also accomplished our salvation with this obedience to the will of the Father. This “healing” is not necessarily a physical healing as much as it is a spiritual healing.
c. We know that the healing mentioned above is not only physical healing in that Verse 25 reminds us that we were continually straying away before knowing Christ, but now have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of our souls. Once we were lost, but now we are found, were blind but now we see!
d. What incredible comfort and assurance these verses must be to the persecuted saints that are struggling as Peter pens his letter to them!
IV. An Application For All Of Us
a. Our witness should be demonstrated in both word and deeds.
b. Would the unbelievers that you interface with most often be able to “convict you of being a Christian”? Why or why not?
c. Are we “witnessing” of the excellencies of Him in the everyday difficulties of life; our work and our world?
d. We are to remember during our life difficulties that our own Savior Jesus Christ also suffered and made the ultimate difference in the lives of those around Him then and even NOW!
“The Most Personal Earthly Relationship”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 3:1-7
Beginning with 1 Peter 2:12, an emphasis has been being made in relation to the believer and his behavior. Once the groundwork had been laid by Peter regarding who God is and who we are in Him, he now goes on to discuss what this salvation and position in Christ looks like in everyday living. Today’s discussion is the one that is the closest to home, that of our relationship to our spouses and how that relationship and the attention given to it can be an effective witness to those around you. Let’s look at what it has to say for both those believers that first read it and for us today.
I. “In the same way…” Review and 1 Peter 3:1,5, and 7
a. One of the most important parts of effective Bible study is the idea of context. What is around a passage of scripture has an incredible amount of information that is helpful in correctly considering the passage that you are studying. Similar to the old real estate axiom, “location, location, location!”, there is an equally important axiom for effective Bible study: “context, context, context!”
b. As one considers where we have been thus far in 1 Peter, he or she is struck by a number of interesting contextual details:
i. The letter is being written to believers.
ii. These believers are going through difficulties related to their faith in Jesus Christ.
iii. Peter wastes no time in reminding them of both who God is and who they are in Him.
iv. With those truths emphasized and foundational to any continuing counsel, he moves forward to discuss the believer’s behavior and the effect that it can have on everyone around them.
v. He will discuss important areas of everyday living and how the believer is to behave around each of those areas. He begins with something that we all interface with, but admittedly most of this interface is at a distance. That area of everyday living is our interface with “every human institution”, that is our government and those serving in those roles of authority.
vi. He continues the discussion a little bit closer to home as he discusses the interface between “slave and master”. In our modern application, this relationship would be that of our relationship of employee to employer.
vii. Now Peter moves on the most personal of all earthly relationships and our relationship to them when he discusses the relationship we have with our spouses.
c. As chapter 3 begins, Peter opens with an interesting phrase that I think is the key to the whole discussion. Verse 1 uses the phrase “In the same way”. He will use it again in Verse 5 and Verse 7. This phraseology makes a direct connection to that which has preceded it, but it also begs an important question: What is the “same way” as it relates to understanding the passage before us?
d. I would like to consider at least 4 things that this phrase means that will have direct bearing on the what, why and how of applying this important passage to our lives today:
i. For the “Lord’s sake” 1 Peter 2:13
ii. As the “will of God” 1 Peter 2:15
iii. As pleasing to God 1 Peter 2:20
iv. With the realization of God’s care and help 1 Peter 2:25
II. The Wife’s Behavior Toward Her Husband 1 Peter 3:1b-6
a. With the above noted motivators and goals in mind, let’s begin to see what this passage has to say for the wife that desires to display both the goodness of God and the difference that salvation has made in her life. Remember that these behaviors or actions can and will have an effect on those around them.
b. The first word mentioned in the “how” of this section is SUBMISSION. This is a word that bristles most people, whether men or women. The reason for this bristling is the fact that our culture (and all worldly cultures) has made such an emphasis to the “rightness of our rights”. We feel that we are owed something; that we deserve something, and it is the culture’s job to provide it. But even if it won’t (and it can’t), than we feel a calling to provide these rights for ourselves. I wonder if those persecuted saints that are the original addressees of this letter were feeling this way. Of course they were!
c. So who are these wives to be submissive to? The text says that they are to be submissive to “their own husbands”. Sometimes this is forgotten by those that think that all women should be submissive to all men. This is not to be a demonstration of the tyrannical rule of all men over all women in the world. It is to be a beautiful picture of Christ’s relationship to His church. This submission is a “placing oneself under” the authority of another. It doesn’t have the idea of losing something, but gaining something.
d. Why should a wife submit to her husband? The idea offered as Verse 1b-2 continues is that of a powerful witness to him. When a woman makes this choice to submit to her husband, there is a powerful witness offered to all around that marriage. Whether the husband is “good and gentle”, or “unreasonable” like the employer of 2:18 there is a powerful witness presented by the wife who chooses to place herself under the authority of her husband. Note that the witness is not just with her words. In fact, the passage says that this powerful witness is presented through her behavior that springs from her relationship to God.
e. The passage goes on to say that a “gentle and quiet spirit” offers a wonderful picture of a life changed by God to a husband. As Verses 3-4 unfold, I think there is a picture on display of a woman who is pretty on both the outside and on the inside. Note the idea that this spirit is an “imperishable” quality. That means that it has a lasting effect; it won’t decay or die. That doesn’t mean that the woman doesn’t have to pay attention to the outside, but that she should also be paying special attention to her inside, that which is “precious in the sight of God”.
f. This advice is not just for those of that generation. Verses 5-6 remind us that this advice is helpful for all generations, whether “former” or “future”. These “holy women” hoped in God (1:3) and followed God in their outside adornment and attitudes as well as their inside submission and followership. These verses offer Sarah as a “mother” of this submission as it was lived out in her relationship to Abraham. This is not a relationship of fear, but of love and submission to God and a husband.
III. The Husband’s Behavior Toward His Wife 1 Peter 3:7
a. Before claiming “unfair treatment” of the women because they have 6 verses of instruction compared to only 1 for the men, take a look at what is being said in this powerful verse. Remember, this is not a passage about “rights”. It is a passage about “right”. How should a believer react to his or her salvation on a daily basis and in daily relationships?
b. As Verse 7 opens up, we are again struck by that phrase “in the same way”. Remembering the thoughts from above, let’s examine this verse as it relates to the husband and his behavior toward his wife.
c. The first admonition is to “live with your wife in an understanding way”. What does it mean to understand someone? How is that understanding demonstrated? To understand someone is to consider them. In a world that is bent on our “rights” and “what we deserve”, this passages is calling the husband to realize that his wife also is a person created by God with wonderful and special value as it relates to both pleasing him, but also pleasing God. The husband is not to merely see himself in every picture, but to see her in every picture of the marriage.
d. The passage goes on to say that the wife is “weaker” and that the husband should realize that fact as a part of his understanding for her. What does this mean? It cannot be in relation to stamina or intelligence or character, so what does it mean? The word here simply means “sheer physical strength”. The wife is not as strong physically as the man. Like a valuable tea set is not like an earthenware coffee cup, the woman is not as strong physically as the man. There is nothing being said here about value. The tea set is often of more value than the old coffee cup. But it is more delicate and should be treated with a different type of care. I believe that in most cases a woman who is both following Christ and being treated in this way will fall all over herself submitting to a man who treats her in this way.
e. Another part of this call to the husband is that of honoring his wife. What does that mean? It means exactly what it says! It means that a man is to honor his wife. He is to treat her in an honorable way. Why? Because she’s always honorable? No, because she is a “fellow heir of the grace of life”. She is a child of the King, and He is always worth honoring and can be honored by honoring that which is His.
f. And lastly, there is a warning for the man in all of this. The man is to adhere to these behaviors as a witness to those around him, but also so that his prayers will not be hindered. WOW!!!! This passage says that spiritual fellowship with others and with God is interrupted when we disregard God’s rules and instruction. This is true in many areas of the Christian life, but especially in an area that has so much witnessing power and is so close to our homes and hearts.
IV. An Application For All Of Us
a. The difference that God and our salvation have made in us can be demonstrated in all of our relationships, even during difficult times.
b. The motivation for right behavior is not to gain His approval, but because we already have.
c. For the wife who desires to demonstrate the difference that salvation has made, there is a call to these things related to our marriage:
i. Submission to both God and your husband.
ii. A continuing “quiet” witness
iii. Purity for your husband
iv. A prettiness both outside and inside
v. Respect for your husband
d. For the man who desires to demonstrate the difference that salvation has made, there is a call to these things related to our marriage:
i. Understanding
ii. Value
iii. Honor
“A Challenge to All”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 3:8-12
As this set of verses unfolds, Peter will conclude his immediate discussion on the behaviors that demonstrate the difference that God and our salvation has made in our lives. Remember that he is writing to persecuted believers that are struggling and hurting. The letter began with a reminder of God and our salvation, followed by another reminder as to some of the titles given to God’s children. Presently, Peter has been in a series of appeals to these hurting saints to remember that their behavior during difficult times can and does have a powerful witness to those around them. Let’s continue and conclude this section and make some important applications to our own lives.
I. The Appeal of Peter 1 Peter 3:8-9
a. Following his discussion of our submission to God as demonstrated in our relationships with our government, our employer, and our spouses, Peter goes on now to conclude this section by offering some general but challenging commands for the readers of this letter.
b. He begins this appeal with an explanation of what he’s up to here. In Verse 8, he begins by saying “to sum up”. The idea here is that of saying “in conclusion” or “when you add all of this up” or “when you put all of this together”. He also tells us who he’s talking to: “all of you”. This is everyone that is reading and will read this letter in the future. The local group has been identified as “strangers and aliens” that are in the midst of local persecution that would have included both social and religious trials because of their faith.
c. He begins with a positive list of “do’s”, followed in the next verse by a list of “don’ts” and some more “do’s”. The list of “do’s” in Verse 8 is:
i. Be harmonious – To be single minded and agreeable.
ii. Be sympathetic – To suffer or feel for another.
iii. Be brotherly – The word here is “philadelphos”, the same word that the city of Philadelphia was named for. It means “a brotherly love”, like a Christian toward another Christian.
iv. Be kindhearted – To be compassionate and tenderhearted.
v. Be humble in spirit – To have a modest opinion of oneself.
d. As you can see, these attributes could only be lived out with the help of the Holy Spirit in us. We could never hope to display these types of behaviors under our own power, especially when going through difficulty and strain.
i. Are these attributes and behaviors evident in your life?
ii. How might you pray to God in relation to this list?
iii. What would a church look like that more regularly displayed these behaviors with one another and those around them?
e. To continue the list, Peter now moves in Verse 9 initially to a list of “don’ts”. As much as the behaviors of Verse 8 were recommended and appealed to, this list is not recommended and even forbidden for the one living to demonstrate the difference that Christ has made in his or her life. What is this list of “don’ts”:
i. Don’t return evil for evil – The temptation is usually to “one up” the one that is making life difficult for you, going beyond the evil that was done to greater depths and meanness.
ii. Don’t return insult for insult – Whoever said that “sticks and stones many break my bones, but words will never hurt me” must have been crazy! Words hurt! And our natural reaction to hurtful words is a bigger and longer volley of the same hurt being dumped on the other person. But who’s trying to be “natural” here? The call is to be godly, not natural! That’s the reaction that will make a lasting impression for Christ on those around you.
f. Instead of the list of “don’ts”, Peter offers an alternative to these destructive witnessing behaviors:
i. Give a blessing instead – Romans 12:17-21 has been very much in my mind as I’ve considered these lists. The idea of “blessing” can be a bit vague at times, but it surely includes acts of kindness, appealing to One above for His best in the person’s life.
1. Why? – Because of the temporary and the eternal benefits of these actions and the witness provided as we do them.
II. The Reward of God 1 Peter 3:10-12
a. As Verses 10-12 are cited, we are really looking at Psalm 34:12-16. Why would Peter be quoting that psalm here? The scene is that of David and his men starving and under duress, looking to Abimelech the priest for provision. They are given the consecrated bread reserved for only priests on the condition that they are ceremonially clean. The story continues in 1 Samuel 21, but the point is that which is reflected on and praised in Psalm 34: God provides for His children when they seek His face instead of relying on “natural” behaviors to get them by.
b. I am reminded of C.J. Mahaney’s book “Humility”, where he quotes Isaiah 66:2 and James 4:6 in relation to what draws the gaze of God. Take a look at these verses: He who is humble has God’s eye and the proud are not noticed.
III. An Application For All Of Us
a. Which of these lists is most like you when it comes to dealings with family, workmates, neighbors, etc. that don’t know Him?
“Right Thinking In Difficult Times”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 3:13-22
As we move on into this next portion of the letter, we are going to run into some of the most difficult to understand statements in the Bible. Scholars over the generations have discussed, agreed and disagreed on what the exact meanings of these words are. But with all of that discussion going on, there are still some very important insights for both the original recipients of the letter and for us as well to receive. Let’s continue looking to these words of Peter for insights into living for Christ in times of persecution.
I. The Truth of the Matter 1 Peter 3:13-17
a. Before we continue into the present passage, we need to again be reminded of what the preceding verses as quoted from Psalm 34 reflected. The point is that God provides for His children when they seek His face instead of relying on “natural” behaviors to get them by. There are behaviors that draw the gaze of God (keeping our tongues from evil, keeping our lips from speaking deceit, turning from evil and seeking to both good and peace) and behaviors that God turns His face from (those who do evil).
b. When the believer’s direction is pointed toward Him, His ways, and His provision, Verse 13 becomes a much easier to digest question. The truth is shared here that while persecution, and even hurt may come into the life of the believer that is pointed toward Christ; there is no one that can ultimately and eternally harm you when you do good. I love the word “zealous” used here as an explanation for the one who is bent on and super-enthusiastic about doing good even in the face of difficult situations.
c. Moving forward to Verses 14, we now see a promise for the person who makes this important decision to follow Christ even in difficulty. The promise is this: on the remote possibility that you suffer specifically due to your following Christ in the midst of difficulty, you can know that blessings has come your way and is available to you. James 5:11 is in view here as it also notes those that have endured as “blessed”. That blessing is the compassion and the mercy of the Lord administered to you whether or not deliverance is immediate or only found in physical death.
d. Isaiah 8:12 is quoted to further make the point. The immediate situation in Isaiah 8 is the pending attack of an enemy. The prophet says that to fear that enemy is not the way to go. The next verse says that the fear and the holiness of the Lord is the more appropriate response to troubles. Ultimately, the persecuting enemy has no eternal power over the believer, only God does.
e. In light of that truth, Verse 15 continues by saying that the believer is to “sanctify” Christ as Lord in their heart. What does this mean? The idea of sanctification is to “set apart” something. In this case, Christ is to be set apart as the only reasonable resource during difficulty and persecution. When a believer does this, it will draw questions from onlookers. That is why Peter continues his thought by saying that this believer must be ready to give a defense for the hope that is in him. The idea of apologetics comes from this word “defense”. We are not to apologize for our faith; we are to give a defense for it. And we are given insight into “how” to make this defense. The verse speaks of gentleness and reverence. Love and care are to be the attributes of one giving this defense. There are those that are “offensive in making their defense” and the scripture here does not acknowledge that methodology.
f. This extended sentence continues by saying in Verse 16 that the believer is to keep a good conscience so that those that those that seek your harm or difficulty will be put to shame. This “clear conscience” is before God and has its resource in God, not our circumstance.
g. The next statement is one that would be found wildly unpopular in the “Christians don’t suffer” camp. Verse 17 says that there are times when it is actually the “will of God” for a believer to suffer for doing what is right. Whaaaatttt!? In a sort of summary statement to what he is already said, Peter says that it is better to suffer doing right than for doing wrong. None of us have a hard time with the idea of suffering when we do wrong, but this idea of suffering even when doing right is more difficult to think through. Think of the missionary stories that you have heard of tremendous difficulties endured for the cause and witness of Christ to those that do not know Him.
i. It is difficult to leave this portion of scripture without asking the application question: Would I be willing to suffer doing right so that someone might have the opportunity to hear the Good News of Christ?
II. The Example of this Truth 1 Peter 3:18-22
a. Before attacking this admittedly difficult portion of the letter in a moment, let’s look at an incredibly brief and beautiful explanation of the Cross of Christ. Verse 18 has some wonderful phrases that really tighten up good theology in addition to bringing great hope to those that are following Him. Look at this wonderful explanation that gives anyone hope:
i. Christ died for sins – Christ is the One and Only that could die this death that we deserve.
ii. Once for all – This is in direct opposition to the idea that the High Priest would annually go into the Holy of holies and make sacrifice for the sins of the people.
iii. The just for the unjust – He, being just and perfect, died for us who are sinful and unjust.
iv. That He might bring us to God – Why did He die? So that He might bring us into the presence of a Holy God. We could never accomplish that on our own or through our behaviors or deeds.
v. Having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the (S)spirit – He was 100% man and 100% God. The very Holy Spirit of God was involved in the resurrection. He actually died and was raised from the dead!
b. From here on, the passage has some difficult to translate things, but here we go! Verse 19 speaks of Jesus Christ going and making proclamation to the spirits now in prison. What does all of this mean? There are at least 3 ideas that most often arise:
i. Christ in His pre-incarnate state went and preached through Noah to the wicked generation of his time.
ii. Christ, between His death and resurrection, went to declare victory to the fallen angels of Genesis 6.
iii. Christ, between His death and resurrection, went to the place of the dead and preached to the wicked contemporaries of Noah.
c. I think that Verse 20 helps us at some level, but doesn’t make it totally clear. It seems that the group addressed with this proclamation is the disobedient generation of Noah. I am tempted to offer another possibility beyond the usual 3 options. I wonder if the Spirit-led preaching of Noah to his wicked generation is what is in mind here. That would continue the idea of the text that seems to be the clear conscience of the believer and the provision of God during difficult times. This seems to me to take in the context of the passage, but is hardly air tight. Like other difficult passages, don’t give up and keep studying! It will make a big difference!
d. It doesn’t get a lot easier as we conclude this passage in Verses 21-22. With that idea communicated in the previous verses in mind, we are told that “baptism saves you”. That immediately makes our Baptist neck hair bristle! We know from much easier passages to understand that water baptism does not save you. Only the shed blood of Christ on Calvary has made salvation available. No work or duty of ours saves us. The salvation that is spoken of here is to a clear conscience, not to heaven. This clear conscience only occurs in those that are saved, those that have had the “baptism of the Holy Spirit”. Like the ark symbolized salvation, our baptism symbolizes, not facilitates our salvation. It is only He who sits at the right hand of God that can assure a clear conscience, especially during the difficult times in our lives. It’s not an outside job, like cleaning dirt from our exterior. It’s an inside job that only He can provide for and resource!
“Our Focus During Difficulties”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 4:1-11
As the letter continues on, Peter will remind us again of the suffering of Christ and offer it as the example of attitude and spirit in persecution and suffering. We are often tempted to get very self-centered and self-absorbed during times of difficulty, even expecting others to understand and even support our poor attitude. Peter will communicate to these suffering saints (and us) that the proper focus during times of difficulty on Christ and on others. Let’s see the details unfold…
I. Focus #1: Christ-like Attitudes in Suffering 1 Peter 4:1-6
a. As we open chapter 4, we are right in the middle of Peter’s teaching in regard to the believer’s behavior and the difference that it will make in those around them. With 1 Peter 3:18 in mind, Peter continues his thoughts in Verse 1 with the connecting word “therefore”. In light or remembrance of Christ’s suffering in the flesh, the believer is called to duty and to the battle. What battle? The one for your soul! We will examine that thought later in 1 Peter 5:8, but for now we must realize that there is one named Satan that wants nothing more than to destroy you and render you useless to the focus of his hate: God Himself.
b. As this battle and this enemy are considered, Peter says to “arm yourself” with the very purpose that Jesus armed Himself with during suffering that we will never or could never imagine. I’m reminded of Ephesians 6:13 and the call to put on the armor of God. At least one of the reasons that Christ suffered was His own righteousness and commitment to the plan of the Father. As we would commit ourselves to this same commitment, it would make complete sense that we would suffer some of the same attacks and battles. The verse here says that to fight the same battle that Christ Himself fought, you need to know that the same resources are available to you as you arm yourself with them.
c. Christ’s commitment was to not sin, even in the face of incredible suffering and persecution. And He did it! In a similar way, we are to no longer resort to sin in times of suffering (or other times either!) as we did when we were lost and without hope. Verse 2 continues the thought that we are to live “the rest of the time”, that is the rest of the time that we will live here on earth, doing the will of God instead of chasing the lusts of men.
d. There is a bit of humor in the way Verse 3 opens up. It says that we have already spent more than enough time carrying out the desires of the Gentiles, that is those that are lost and without Christ. In other words, enough is more than enough! A partial list of the “lusts of men” follows and unfortunately we need very little explanation of these words and the damaging effects of each of these sins. The very fact that Peter takes no time to explain the sins gives indication to their familiarity in both the readers of the time and our hearts as we consider it today.
e. Verse 4 piles the list in the preceding verse into 2 words: “all this”. A new group of people is now brought into the conversation. That group is called “they” in the New American Standard Bible. Who is this “they”? They are none other than the ones that enjoy the list of Verse 3! While some of us have testimonies of others that “respected us” because we didn’t sin and they do, there are other responses to this situation. Our current verse says that “they” are surprised when you don’t run with them, drink with them, and the result will be ridicule from them.
f. But this ridicule will not last forever. Why? Verse 5 says because they will give an account to God Himself who is prepared and able to judge both the living and the dead.
g. This was the very reason that the gospel was preached in the first place. Verse 6 tells us that the purpose of gospel preaching is that men and women would change from ridiculing and mocking the things and the people of God to followers of God. It can’t get much clearer than that, can it?
II. Focus #2: Christ-like Service in Light of Coming Judgment 1 Peter 4:7-11
a. With the attitude of Christ and coming judgment in mind, Peter now continues his appeal to these hurting people with some directives that will make a difference. Verse 7 reminds us not only of the coming judgment of sinners, but the fact that the time has never been nearer. In light of those truths, Peter appeals for the believer to have a level head and a spirit committed to Him and His ways so that prayer will both have the priority and the effect desired.
b. To close out this section, Peter now offers 3 behaviors and attitudes that can replace the self-centeredness and self-absorption noted as common those that are in difficult times. Verses 8-11 offer that list:
i. Keep fervent in your love for one another (Vs.8) – this is listed as the priority and overarching appeal. Why? Because love will cover a multitude of sins, which all of us have.
ii. Be hospitable to one another without complaint (Vs.9) – there is multiple appeals in the Bible for hospitality. To be hospitable towards others will take the focus off you.
iii. Be good stewards of your spiritual gifts (Vs.10) – each believer has at least one spiritual gift that is to be employed and stewarded well. This “good stewardship” doesn’t put you on display. It puts the grace of God on display. While there are other spiritual gift lists in the Bible (Romans 12, Ephesians 4, etc.), this one seems to mention specifically the speaking and serving gifts in general. The focus of all “gift-giving” is the glory of God through Jesus Christ who will rule and reign forever. AMEN!
III. An Application For All Of Us
a. Contrary to the “natural” response to suffering, including self-absorption, and self-centeredness, there is to be a focus on both Christ and others instead. That kind of response will make a difference in those around us!
“More Counsel For The Suffering”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 4:12-19
Suffering and persecution are not “if’s” when it comes to the life of the follower of Christ. The fact of the matter is that suffering for our faith is a “when”, a promise, of the Scripture. Peter continues his discussion of the behavior that makes a difference during difficult times by way of reminding us in summary of some things that he has touched on already while also bringing us some informative and helpful new advice. Let’s see what Peter says in this section that would have applied to the lives of the original readers and will apply to our busy lives today.
I. The Right Attitude Toward Suffering 1 Peter 4:12-13
a. Again, I love the way that the biblical writers often remind their readers of their feelings toward them. Verse 12 does that with its first word. Peter calls these readers that are hurting “beloved” or “dear friends”. What a precious reminder to someone who is going through the fire of persecution! To have a connection is to somehow share the burden of all that’s going on. Peter loves these people and realizes that they need to hear of that love, especially now.
b. There has been much made of the “fiery ordeal” that is mentioned here. Remember that the persecution that is happening as Peter writes the letter is local and centered for the most part on religious and social observances. Is this a reminder of 1 Peter 1:6-7 that tells of various trials that will be a part of a greater “refining”? Or is Peter somehow sharing a future for these people under the hand of the ruthless emperor Nero where the bodies of Christians will literally be used as torches to light his gardens? I’m led to believe that what is being spoken of is the former in light of the tenses and the idea of “testing” that will be discussed as God’s motive for these difficulties. But as readers now we know that the latter explanation had a reality that Peter may have been empowered to recognize.
c. But what is the reminder that he offers to them? He says to “not be surprised". Are you ever “surprised” when difficulties come your way as a result of your faith in Christ? Sometimes we think that somehow our self-perceived “faithfulness” should insulate us from the troubles that fall upon the perceived “less faithful”. You may ask how something could be happening to you, especially in light of the fact that you had been “doing right” in your mind.
d. Peter reminds his readers that these persecutions are part of a “testing”. These difficulties are not to be thought of as some kind of strange thing that is coming your way by chance. None of this is happening “by chance”. All of it is happening to test the believer’s trust and dependence on Him.
e. In contrast to the appeal to “not be surprised”, Peter now offers in Verse 13 the right response in suffering for Christ’s sake. That reaction is to “rejoice”. That appeal is impossible to understand for the one that does not know Christ as Savior. Only one who understands and has “shared” by way of faith in His suffering could ever make this appeal a reality.
f. If somehow the reminder of the sufferings of Christ could serve you well during the difficulties that you currently are enduring, how much more will those reminders solidify your faith and precipitate rejoicing at His coming. That will be the time when His glory is finally revealed in all of its greatness and our only reasonable response will be great exultation and praise.
II. Some Important Reminders For Those That Are Suffering 1 Peter 4:14-18
a. 1 Peter 2:23 comes back to mind as Verse 14 continues. Remember that Christ was reviled, yet did not revile in return. Instead, He entrusted Himself to the Father. So what about us? This verse says that if we are reviled “for the name of Christ”, we are blessed. Remember that this persecution is not the “flat tires” of life or the ordinary difficulties that are a part of living in a fallen world. These are the persecutions that come directly and uniquely at the one who has made Jesus Christ their Lord.
b. One has to be reminded of Matthew 5:11-12 here. There is a joy that is available to the one who is insulted and persecuted for the name of Christ. That joy is something that can be embraced both here on earth and will be realized even more fully in heaven. Our identification is not only the prophets and the saints of old, but also the risen Christ.
c. So what is the provision promised here? Peter says that “the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you”. WOW! Remember the Shekinah glory of God that “rested” on the tabernacle and in the temple? (Exodus 40:34 and 1 Kings 8:10-11) And remember Stephen, when he was about to face martyrdom, who saw the glory of God? (Acts 7:55) This promise is not just for heaven alone; it is also for now here on earth! You do not have to wait for heaven to experience His glory.
d. But this promise is not available to all Christians. Verse 15 reminds us that sometimes our suffering is not because of our great faithfulness. Sometimes our suffering is because of our sin! Peter now offers a partial list of people that the Christian is “not to be”. That list includes some obvious ones like murderer, thief, and evildoer. But it also includes a less obvious person; the troublesome meddler. I didn’t see that one coming. Again, Matthew 5 comes to mind. In Verses 21-26, we are told that relational reconciliation is important in the life of one who calls himself or herself a Christian. To be a “troublesome meddler” is to leave things relationally undone and in disarray.
e. The thought continues into Verse 16 by saying that to suffer as a Christian is not a position of shame but a place to glorify His name. It is noteworthy to see the word “Christian” here. It is used only 3 times in the New Testament. (Acts 11:26, 26:28, and here) Are you proud to be called a “Christian”? That name is getting a lot of baggage hung on it these days. There are some that are making a mess out of that name, but inside and outside the faith. But to suffer as a “Christian” is to somehow suffer as a “little Christ”. That name has a duty and a responsibility attached to it. That responsibility is to suffer rightly and to the glory of His name.
f. Moving to his next thought, Peter reminds us again in Verses 17-18 that judgment is nearer than it ever has been. But he is now saying that the present suffering is a “judgment” to those that are His own. This “judgment” is not to punish His children, but to “test them” as was noted in Verse 12 above. This judgment is happening now to His children, but there will be another judgment for those that do not know Christ; who do not obey the gospel. Proverbs 11:31 is quoted to remind us that the road to heaven is not even easy for the believer. How much more difficult the way for the unbeliever! It would seem here that we have a reminder to continue with this behavior that makes a difference knowing that as a believer responds well to these tests from God he or she can witness for the gospel and perhaps keep someone from an eternity in hell.
III. A Proper Perspective On Suffering 1 Peter 4:19
a. As this section and chapter closes, we have a summary statement that encapsulates that whole section. In fact, this statement would not be a bad one to encapsulate the entire letter thus far.
b. We are reminded here in Verse 19 that the suffering of the saints is sometimes the “will of God” to be used to test His children as to their faith and witness even during the most difficult times.
c. But to do this is not to give up; it is to entrust oneself completely to the One who is both faithful and the Creator. We are not just entrusting Him with our today, we are entrusting Him with our very souls. He is not only faithful in this regard; He has always been faithful. He who is faithful in the creation will be faithful today as well.
IV. An Application For All Of Us
a. This is a great piece of advice and counsel to the Christian who is deciding to do right even when it is difficult!!
“Shepherd Instructions”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 5:1-4
What do you think of when you think of the word “leader”? All of us have had leaders in our lives, and many of us have been given the privilege of leading others toward a common goal. Leaders are important! But leaders don’t get a “free pass”. There are important responsibilities that fall to the leader; but there are also important attitudes that a leader must have. This truth is especially important when it comes to leading those that are going through difficult times. What will Peter say to these leaders? Let’s see…
I. The Connection Of These Verses To The Whole Letter 1 Peter 5:1a
a. While some of your versions of the Bible don’t start with this word, I think there is either an assumed “therefore” or a literal “therefore” that starts this section of Peter’s letter to these suffering saints in Verse 1. So what is the “therefore” there for?
b. When it comes to working the way through difficult times, we see the need for strong and caring leadership most clearly. When we are in troubles, it is so important to have able “shepherds” to steer us through the danger or away from the enemies. Of course, the best leader ever is none other than our Savior, Jesus Christ, who leads perfectly every time. But when it comes to “on the ground” leadership in our churches, it will take none other than the man who is following Him who provides the perfect example of leadership to those that are listening and following Him to help us.
c. We have just finished a section that reminds us of the very real and difficult suffering that believers must sometime endure as they live their lives for Him. With the provision of both He and His glory, these things are still very difficult and demand leadership on the ground to help navigate the way. It is with that in mind that Peter will now discuss these leaders and what they are going to have to be like if they are going to make a difference during difficult times.
II. Peter’s Resume For Offering This Teaching 1 Peter 5:1
a. Peter continues his thoughts in Verse 1 by offering a few resume thoughts that might better connect him from afar to these hurting people as well as the leaders that he is addressing specifically here.
b. Peter exhorts the leadership of these hurting people based on 3 things about him:
i. He is a “fellow elder” – this is noteworthy in that in 1:1 he introduced himself as an apostle. While apostolic authority is important in addressing the letter as a whole to these folks, it is equally as important to identify with those that he is going to bring help to. That is why he is calling himself a “fellow elder” here. He is identifying with the difficulty of leading a group that is struggling. He wants them to know that he understands.
ii. He is a “witness of the sufferings of Christ” – In addition to the connection to 4:13, there is also a very real sense in that Peter did witness the sufferings of Christ. Gospel accounts such as Matthew 26:58, Mark 14:54, Luke 22:60-62, and John 18:10 remind us that Peter did have a front row seat for the suffering of Christ. It is really something of a testimony to Peter’s own humility that he mentions this in light of the fact that these scenes were not Peter’s most spiritual moments! The reminder here is that God is not looking for a perfect leader; He is looking for a forgiven leader.
iii. He is a “partaker of the glory to be revealed” – Again, Peter is not just using language for its own sake. He did actually partake of the “glory of God revealed”. Matthew 16:27 and 17:8 tell us that Peter did see the glory of God. But Peter (and us) will ultimately see the glory of God revealed in the future in a wonderful way.
III. How to Shepherd / Not Shepherd 1 Peter 5:2-3
a. Peter now offers 3 “Do’s” and 3 “Don’ts” for the shepherd-leader that wishes to make a difference for those that are under his charge:
i. Do shepherd willingly, not from a heart of compulsion (Vs. 2) – No one likes following a leader because it’s “his job”. The shepherd is to love his sheep and serve them from this motivation.
ii. Do shepherd from an excitement, not from a heart of personal gain (Vs.2) – Sheep are not to be manipulated, they are to be persuaded to move forward. The common goal of forward movement for Christ should always outweigh the temptation for personal glory.
iii. Do shepherd providing an example, not as one “driving” the sheep (Vs.3) – The shepherd must always remember that he is also a “sheep”. This truth will help him to shepherd and lead instead of driving the sheep as one’s own property.
IV. The Proper Motivation for Leading 1 Peter 5:4
a. The reward for the leader that does it God’s way according to Verse 4 is His reward, an unfading one that will last forever!
V. An Application For All Of Us
a. Do you know the leaders of Faith Baptist Church? Do you pray for them? Do you encourage them as they do this difficult work?
“Concluding Appeals”
By Pastor Rich Paradis
1 Peter 5:5-14
As we have made it this final paragraph of Peter’s letter to these suffering saints, we have to admit that there have been some incredibly practical and at the same time intensely theological topics considered. In our most recent discussion, Peter shared with us the attributes of the leader that makes a difference when it comes to shepherding during the most difficult of times. Now Peter is now going to offer some admonitions for the sheep of the congregation; those that are under the shepherd under consideration in the previous verses. Let’s see what this final section has for us today.
I. Humble Yourself 1 Peter 5:5-7
a. Peter continues his thoughts and appeals in Verse 5 by initially speaking to young men. This “young men” can be thought of as all people of the group that were either younger in the faith or in years. In a similar way as the elders were to hear the admonitions of Peter, these younger ones were to hear as well. What were they (and us) supposed to do? They were to willingly place themselves under the leadership of the elders (pastors) of the church. We are often quick to appeal to the leadership to do their job; but here the call is to do our job! They are to lead, yes, but we are also to follow.
b. While how old you are doesn’t necessarily make you more “follow-able”, Peter now offers a second thought here. He says that “all of us” are to “clothe” ourselves with humility. What a statement! Again, reminding ourselves that “all is all, that’s all all is”, we are told to put on humility like a slave would put on an apron before serving his master. WOW! Are we to think of others in this exalted way? Yes! They are created in the “image of God” and therefore have great value. Why should we do this? Proverbs 3:34 is quoted to reinforce the next thought that God is opposed to the proud and graceful to the humble. James 4:6 is another place where this quotation is used in relation to God’s reaction to the prideful. Remember, it was the sin of pride that prompted the activities of Satan himself as he left the heavens to pursue his own way instead of God’s way.
c. In light of that truth, Peter goes on in Verse 6-7 to say that we are to additionally humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand. So now we have seen the list of those that we are to be humble towards; God and others. Why? Because there is a day coming when we will be exalted and lifted up. We don’t have to do it now! He will do it at the “proper time”.
d. How do we do this “humble” thing? The verse says that we are to “cast all our anxiety on Him”. How much is “all”? You get the picture… And why should we cast our anxieties on Him? Because He cares for us! WOW!! Sometimes we don’t even care about ourselves, but that is never the case with Him. He always cares for us. With that truth in mind we can cast, that is throw upon Him, our deepest and our smallest concerns knowing that He will handle them in a Romans 8:28 kind of way.
i. Have you “clothed” yourself with humility? Only the grace of God can provide the resources and the power for this “wardrobe change”!
ii. Do you realize the strong feelings that God has against the sin of pride?
iii. Have you considered that you don’t have to strive for your own exaltation. God will exalt you at the proper time?
iv. How many of your anxieties do you keep close to yourself as opposed to “casting” them on Him?
II. Watch Out for Yourself 1 Peter 5:8-9
a. But this appeal to “cast” does not mean that you can just sit back and relax. Verse 8 tells us that we must be of “sober spirit”. Look at 1 Thessalonians 5:6-8. These verses offer some insights into how this is done. The thought continues as Peter reminds us that we must be on guard: there is a lion called the devil that wants nothing more than to eat us! The devil is not a fair fighter, standing out in front of you so that you can always see him. He is an “ambush killer” who will jump out and get hold of you before you can even get your hands out of your pockets. So don’t let your hands stay in your pockets!
b. Verse 9 tells us to resist him. But don’t resist him with your strength; resist him with your faith. In whom? You? Not hardly! Resist him with the testimonies of others that have been faithful and in the strength of the One who provides that faith: Jesus Christ! I love to read of the great people of faith that have endured incredible difficulty because of their faith in Christ. And I love to hear of the provision offered by Christ to those that have suffered for this type of faith.
III. Depend on God 1 Peter 5:10-11
a. But our faith during these difficult times is not just some “love of persecution” or “martyr’s approach”. Our faith during difficult times is rooted and strengthened by the fact that Peter shares in Verse 10. Peter shares an incredible promise that he has already shared in brief back in 1:6. He says that suffering, however intense, will only last a little while when compared to eternity with Him. But in the meantime, He Himself will build you up with all that you need to bear these things with grace and as a witness for Him. Verse 11 shares with us the only reasonable response to this truth: Let Him rule forever and ever! Amen!!
IV. Final Greetings 1 Peter 5:12-14a
a. In closing, we are reminded of some things from our introduction to this letter. Silas is an amanuensis for Peter’s writing. The letter itself is being written from “Babylon”, which I believe is Rome. The Roman church sends its greetings and so does Peter’s close “son” in the faith, John Mark.
V. An Application For All Of Us 1 Peter 5:14b
a. Verse 14b offers the application to this letter: Peace be to you all who are in Christ. This could never be said without the provision of the risen Christ and the salvation and future exaltation that comes as a result of His provision at the Cross, the greatest suffering of all.
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