Bible Pathways - December 17, 2005

December 17, 2005

Read 1 Peter 1

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 (chosen) . . . through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ (I Peter 1:2). As Christians, we should look forward to an inheritance incorruptible (imperishable), and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept (protected) by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1:4-5). However, during our brief lifetime in this world, Peter urges 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 which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (behavior). . . . Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit . . . see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again (from above), not of corruptible (physical) seed, but of incorruptible (immortal), by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth 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 ye may grow thereby (2:2). He points out that the nourishment of the Word is essential to provide strength to our spiritual growth 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 best interest. Peter also describes Christians as a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (2:5). Each Christian is a sacred Temple for the indwelling Holy Spirit. In addition, we have been chosen to be a peculiar people (chosen as ambassadors of Christ); that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light (I Peter 2:9).

Cross References:

For I Peter 1:16: See Leviticus 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7. 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 53:4-5,11-12.

Word Studies:

1:17 sojourning = temporary residing; 2:2 sincere = pure, without a mixture; 2:4 disallowed = rejected; 2:19 thankworthy = approved or commendable.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Rick Hash · Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America · Major languages: Spanish and Quechua · Religious freedom · 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i · Prayer Suggestion: Confess your sins and ask the Lord to restore the joy of your salvation (Psalm 51:1-3,12).

Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Peter 1:23