1 Peter 1:13-25
Q.1. How should the Hope of the Gospel inspire the believer? Why should God’s people be ever growing in holiness? – (1Pet.1:13-16)
The Gospel is the basis for giving us a right standing with God. However, it is the hope of blessedness at the revelation of Jesus Christ that inspires us on to become holy i.e. to become in practice what God has already declared us to be, through Christ. That assurance removes the fear of condemnation and failure. It sets us free to change. However, this perfection will not become a reality, until Christ gives us a brand-new existence in which we are no longer subject to our fallen nature.
Q.2. Where should our focus be, in our determination to change? What impact should the atoning work of Christ make? What is the basis for our security? – (1 Pet.1:17-21)
We should sustain a healthy fear of God, because God’s holy judgment was not avoided by Jesus, in His purchase of our salvation. He became the perfect sacrifice, as He gave up His lifeblood for lost sinners. The death of Christ was no after-thought. It was foreknown and planned – before the foundation of the world … even though He – has appeared in these last times for the sake of you (1 Pet.1:20). If Christ had not been raised and restored to His original place of Glory in Heaven, then we would have no sure hope, and our faith would be futile (1 Pet.1:21).
Q.3. What makes the Word of God so important in following Christ? How did Peter highlight the dependability of the Word of God? – (1 Pet.1:22-25)
Without the Word of God, we would not know how to obey or please Him. Peter knew that we are saved by the Gospel – but it is the true Gospel – for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God (1 Pet.1:23 c.f. Gal.1:6-9). Furthermore, Peter contrasted the Word of God with the glories of creation, which all wither and decay. He wrote – But the word of the Lord endures forever.” And this is the word which was preached to you (1 Pet.1:25). Unlike us, God never needs to change His mind, or retract His words or His promises.