August 13, 2018 - In his first letter Peter writes to those troubled Christians who have been dispersed by persecution because of their faith in Christ Jesus.
As we see an increasing tide of persecutions befalling Christians today we are given need of Peter’s words as well as did those of old.
Peter reminds us all of the joys and benefits of being born again to the blessed hope of eternal life with Christ.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last times. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith - more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire - may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:3-7)
The entire story of the gospel message told here in a few words of consolation by an apostle of the Lord.
Peter re-enforces the gospel message as he explains that we are saved only by the forgiving mercy of God as we are lifted from the pit of destruction, born again out of this world into the Lord Jesus Christ. Our salvation paid for by Jesus’ death and resurrection from the dead, giving all who accept him as Lord the living hope of eternal life in heaven.
A holy inheritance worth more than all the gold and silver on earth for our inheritance is imperishable, it can never be removed from us. As the gold and silver of earth is burned up in the end of the age, our inheritance will remain intact, guarded through our faith sitting ready for the time when each of his children are called home to be with him forever.
And he tells us that yes, we may have to go through various trials and persecutions here on earth, but that is only for a little while, eternity with Christ is forever and that is our destination.
And lastly he gives us a beautiful look into the true meaning of faith in our Lord when he says; “Though you have not seen him, you love him.Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1 Peter 1:8-9)
The joy of being a born again child of the Most High God, knowing without doubt that our inheritance waits for us in heaven where, one glorious day, we will each one claim for his own, the bountiful riches of God Almighty.
Do you know him today?
If no, then it is time to step forward and accept him as your Lord and Master. Believing that Jesus is Lord of all. That the Father raised him from the dead and that through his blood you are washed clean of all sin, forever. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and you will be saved. Amen…
