Bible Pathways 12/17/04
December 17
Read I Peter 1 - 2
In Today's Reading:
Call to Christian dedication; proper use of Christian liberty; the example of Christ's suffering
Peter referred to Christians as elect . . . through sanctification of the Spirit, to obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ (I Peter 1:2). "Sprinkling" alludes to the blood which was sprinkled on the Brazen Altar as a symbol of the people's obedience to God, as well as on the people as a symbol of God's acceptance of them (Exodus 24:1-11).
As Christians, we look forward to an inheritance incorruptible (imperishable), and undefiled, and that fades not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept (protected) by the power of God through faith to salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (I Peter 1:4-5). However, during our brief lifetime in this world, Peter urged that we, as strangers and pilgrims (temporary residents), abstain from fleshly lusts (desires), which war against the soul (2:11).
Peter reminded us of the importance of living a holy life, saying: As obedient children, not fashioning (conforming) yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as He who has called you is holy, so be holy in all manner of conversation (behavior). . . . Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit . . . see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which lives and abides for ever (1:14-15,22-23,25).
Since the Bible is our source of guidance and strength, Peter urged all believers: As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby (2:2). Peter points out that the nourishment of the Word is essential if we are to live as obedient children. This could only mean our surrender to the Lord's authority since it is always in our very best interest. Peter also describes Christians as a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (2:5). Each of us is a sacred temple for the indwelling Holy Spirit. In addition, we have been chosen to be a peculiar people (God's own); that you should show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (I Peter 2:9).
Cross References:
For I Peter 1:16: See Leviticus 11:44-45. I Peter 1:24-25: See Isaiah 40:6-8. I Peter 2:6-7: See Isaiah 28:16.; Psalm 118:22. I Peter 2:22: See Isaiah 53:9. I Peter 2:24: See Isaiah 53:4-5,12.
Word Studies:
1:17 sojourning = temporarily residing; 2:2 sincere = without a mixture; 2:4 disallowed = rejected; 2:19 thankworthy = approved or commendable.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Joe & Betty Crawford · BP Staff: Ilene Wallace · Country: Czech Republic (10 million) in central Europe · Major languages: Czech and Slovak · Religious freedom · 63% Catholic; 7% Protestant; 4% Eastern Orthodox · Prayer Suggestion: Revere and worship the Lord with godly fear and you will have no want (Psalm 34:9).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 9:7
