1 Peter 1

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 40 2 8 0 0 Commentary) The First Epistle of Peter) 1. Introduction) (1:1 2)) Salvation) (1:3 12)) and Holiness, part 1) (1:13 25)) ) Outline) 1:1 2 I. Introduction ) 1:1 A. Salutation ) 1:2 B. Addressees ) 1:3 12 II. Salvation ) 1:3 A.

A Living Hope ) 1:4 B. A Safe Inheritance ) 1:5 6 C. A Joyous Salvation ) 1:7 D. A Genuine Faith ) 1:8 9 E. A Glorious Joy ) 1:10 11 F. An Intensive Search ) 1:12 G.

A Personal Revelation ) 1:13 2:3 III. Holiness ) 1:13 16 A. Be Holy ) 1:17 21 B. Live in Reverent Fear ) 1:22 25 C. Love One Another ) ) ) ) I. Introduction) 1:1 2) 1 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,) To God s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2 who have been chosen according to the fore-knowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood:) Grace and peace be yours in abundance.) ) A.

Salutation) 1:1) First we have the name and title of the sender on the envelope, so to speak. Next we have the address. That is, the writer is sending his letter to addressees who live in various parts of Asia Minor. This envelope with enclosed letter is carried from place to place.) 1. Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,) To God s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia.) a. Name) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.17|AUTODETECT|” Peter is brief and direct in introducing himself. Instead of saying that he is Simon son of Jonah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” ) or Simon son of John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” John 1:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|” 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” ), he uses the name Peter. This is the name Jesus gave him when Andrew introduced his brother Simon to the Lord. Jesus said, You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas (which, when translated, is Peter) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” John 1:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.23|AUTODETECT|” ). As the footnote in the New International Version explains, Both Cephas (Aramaic) and Peter (Greek) mean rock. ��1�� The name that Simon received from Jesus reflects his character, perhaps not so much during the years of Jesus ministry, but certainly after Peter s reinstatement 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.21.15-43.21.23|AUTODETECT|” John 21:15 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.14|AUTODETECT|” As leader in the Jerusalem church, Simon became known as Peter or Simon Peter (see, for example, the numerous references in Acts). Incidentally, only twice in the New Testament the more exact Sem[itic] form Symeon is used 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.1|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��2��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 b. Title) Peter expresses his authority and influence by using the name that Jesus gave him when he became Jesus disciple. He is the only one who has that name and he is the recognized leader in the church.) Peter also calls himself an apostle of Jesus Christ. Although he belonged to the inner circle of the twelve disciples during Jesus earthly ministry, Peter places himself on the same level as all the other disciples. As he puts it, he is an apostle and certainly not the apostle of Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Peter does not need to explain or defend his apostleship, as for example Paul has to do in most of his epistles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.1-44.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ). Peter merely refers to himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ. With the other apostles, Peter has received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost and so proclaims the resurrection of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.1-44.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Next, he has received his apostleship as a lifetime office. And last, he has received Christ s commission to make disciples of all nations by baptizing them and by teaching them the gospel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19-40.28.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:19 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��3��) 1 5 2 8 0 0 The term apostle has a broader connotation than the words the one who has been sent. Besides being sent, an apostle has received full authority from Jesus Christ. Thus he delivers not his own thoughts but the message of the one who sends him.��4�� Conclusively, then, in his epistle Peter writes with the divine authority Jesus Christ has given him.) The double name Jesus Christ points first to Jesus earthly ministry and second to Christ s divine calling, task, and position. Jesus Christ commissions Peter to serve him as apostle and to write this general epistle to the church in Asia Minor, that is, modern Turkey.) c. Addressees) Who are the recipients of this letter? Before Peter tells us where they live, he describes them spiritually, socially, and politically. He writes his letter to God s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia. ) God s elect) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.14|AUTODETECT|” In the Greek, the adjective elect or chosen appears in the plural without the qualifying noun of God. Within the context of the epistle (1:2; 2:4, 6, 9), the adjective means that God has chosen the readers. They are his people, separated from the world, experiencing the world s hatred and enduring suffering and persecution. Yet they are the ones whom God favors and loves. Out of the human race, God has chosen his own people. For many are invited, but few are chosen 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.14|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Also, in the broader context of his epistle, Peter teaches the purpose of election: But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light (2:9).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Strangers in the world) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Christians are resident aliens in this world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ). They are not at home in this world, for their stay on earth is temporary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Their citizenship is in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Therefore, as God s elect they live on this earth as exiles and temporary residents.��5��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Scattered throughout) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.35|AUTODETECT|” The expression scattered refers to the exile and its aftermath. The Jewish people were driven from their native land and lived in dispersion 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.35|AUTODETECT|” John 7:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, after the death of Stephen, Jewish Christians were scattered and had to reside in foreign countries 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.11.19|AUTODETECT|” 11:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.1|AUTODETECT|” James 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Is Peter referring to Jewish Christians who were driven from Israel to live in Asia Minor? Perhaps. Or ought the expression to be taken figuratively? The previous expression strangers in the world is understood symbolically; thus we should not be too literal in interpreting this part of the text. If we understand the text figuratively, the readers need not be only Jewish Christians; some of them may be Gentile Christians (compare 1:18; 2:10, 25; 4:3 4). The Jewish and Gentile readers live in five districts of Asia Minor: Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia.) d.

Districts) Where are the districts that Peter mentions in his epistle? The map on page 34 shows the areas that are listed. Note that Peter fails to mention some regions. For instance, he omits the names Lycia, Phrygia, Pisidia, Pamphylia, Lycaonia, and Cilicia. But these names pertain to the southern part of Asia Minor. Peter addresses his letter to readers in the northern, eastern, central, and western provinces.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1-44.12.17|AUTODETECT|” We assume that after Peter s release from prison 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.12.1-44.12.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 12:1 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.6-44.16.7|AUTODETECT|” ), he brought the gospel to these areas. At the same time, Paul evangelized parts of Asia Minor, but the Holy Spirit prevented him from preaching in the province of Asia and from entering Bithynia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.6-44.16.7|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:6 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul would not preach in areas where the gospel was known, for he refused to build on someone else s foundation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��6��) 1 20 2 8 0 0 Peter lists the five districts in the following order: Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. The person who delivered the letter, perhaps Silas (5:12), came first to Pontus along the shores of the Black Sea, then followed a circuitous route to Galatia and to Cappadocia. From there he traveled to Asia and concluded his journey in Bithynia.��7��) Finally, Peter refers to districts and not to Roman provinces. In 64 b.c., Bithynia and Pontus became one province under Roman rule. Although the name Galatia designates a province, it also refers to a district.) ) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:1) ������ all nouns and substantives in the address and greeting (vv. 1 2) lack the definite article. Nevertheless, many of them are definite because of the formal structure of the introduction to the epistle.) ��������� ������������ the adjective elect modifies the substantive strangers.

The adjective is verbal and expresses the passive idea; that is, God is the agent. The compound substantive consists of the prepositions ���� (beside) and �� (upon) and the noun ����� (people). The compound means the people who dwell beside native residents on the land. ) ��������� from the verb ��������� (I scatter abroad), this noun in the genitive singular describes Jewish exiles dispersed among the nations; it also relates to Christians who are scattered abroad among the Gentiles. ��8��) B. Addressees) 1:2) 2. Who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood.) In three separate clauses Peter describes three acts of the Triune God. The Father has foreknowledge, the Spirit sanctifies, and Jesus Christ expects obedience from those whom he has cleansed from sin.

These three clauses explain the term elect (v. 1).) Note the following points:) a. Foreknowledge) According to the foreknowledge of God the Father. Most translators favor linking the word elect to the three prepositional clauses:) according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,) through the sanctifying work of the Spirit,) for obedience to Jesus Christ) and sprinkling by his blood.��9��) A few translations follow the Greek word order verbatim: Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the elect who are sojourners of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father. ��10�� But the force of the sentence focuses attention on the expression elect, because the concept foreknowledge is directly related to election.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” What is foreknowledge? It is much more than the ability to predict future events. It includes the absolute sovereignty of God in determining and implementing his decision to save sinful man.��11�� The word foreknowledge appears in Peter s Pentecost sermon, where he declares to his Jewish audience that Jesus was handed over to you by God s set purpose and foreknowledge 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter implies that God worked according to his sovereign plan and purpose which he had made in advance.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Paul also refers to foreknowledge. The verb foreknow occurs in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Romans 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4-49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” , For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son. Paul indicates that the concepts foreknowledge and predestination go together. Foreknowledge and predestination were acts of God before the creation of this world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4-49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ). The prefixes fore- and pre- in the phrase foreknew and predestined 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) denote as much.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Returning to Peter s first epistle, we note that Peter, writing about Christ, mentions the teaching of election when he says, He was chosen [foreknown] before the creation of the world (1:20).) With perfect ease Peter weaves the doctrine of the Trinity into the cloth of his epistle. Within the Christian community, that doctrine was accepted and understood, so that the writers of the New Testament had no need to introduce, explain, or defend it against possible Jewish attacks.��12��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3-49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Peter speaks of God the Father, the Spirit, and Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3-49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:3 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The order he chooses is arbitrary, for he is interested not in sequence but in the function each person of the Trinity performs. God the Father foreknows and chooses the sinner. By describing God as Father, Peter implies that the people God has chosen and whom Peter calls elect are indeed God s children. They are highly privileged because they are parties to the covenant God has made with his people:) 1 2 2 8 0 0 I will be a Father to you,) and you will be my sons and daughters,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” says the Lord Almighty. [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ]) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Note that God s elect have been chosen [elected] according to the foreknowledge of God the Father. How is man s election realized? It is effected through the power of the Holy Spirit, who cleanses the elect from sin.) b. Sanctification) Peter writes his epistle to the elect who have been chosen & through the sanctifying work of the Spirit. When Peter speaks of the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, he delineates the difference between a holy God and a sinful man. The Spirit is at work when he makes man holy and acceptable in the sight of God; sinful man, however, cannot enter the presence of a holy God unless God through his Spirit sanctifies him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Peter is not alone in teaching the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. Paul writes virtually the same thing to the church in Thessalonica: From the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The original Greek indicates that the sanctifying work of the Spirit is a continuing activity or process rather than a completed act that results in a state of perfected holiness.��13�� In this process man does not remain passive while the Spirit is active. Man is also deeply involved. Peter exhorts the believers, But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: Be holy, because I am holy (1:15 16).) c. Obedience and sprinkling) Why does the Spirit sanctify the elect? Peter says that it is for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood. He repeats his reference to obedience in subsequent verses of this chapter: As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance (v. 14); Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth, so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart (v. 22).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.24.3-2.24.8|AUTODETECT|” In the Greek Peter actually says, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ. ��14�� With the terms obedience and sprinkling Peter refers to the confirmation of the covenant that God made with the people of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.24.3-2.24.8|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 24:3 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Moses read the Book of the Covenant to the people. They responded, We will do everything the Lord has said; we will obey (v. 7). Then Moses sprinkled blood on the people and said, This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words (v. 8). The writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews comments that Jesus shed his blood to take away the sins of God s people (9:18 28; 12:24).��15��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Peter declares that through Jesus sacrificial death on the cross, he redeemed and purchased the elect (compare 1:18 19). Thus, in summary, the Triune God has given them three distinct privileges: God the Father foreknows them, God the Spirit sanctifies them, and Jesus Christ cleanses them from sin through the sprinkling of his blood. Although the shedding of blood has taken place once for all, its significance has lasting effect and is an enduring process.��16�� Jesus Christ continues to cleanse us from sin.) d. Greeting) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.2|AUTODETECT|” The words grace and peace be yours in abundance also appear in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.2|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Jude 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The greeting is rather typical of New Testament authors who write letters. With variations, Paul, James, John, Jude, and the writer of Hebrews extend greetings and benedictions at either the beginning or the end of their epistles.��17��) 1 4 2 8 0 0 The term grace is comprehensive; it encompasses the concepts of mercy, love, and remission of sin. Grace is that which God extends to man. Peace, by contrast, is a state of internal happiness which the possessor expresses externally to his fellow man. In a sense, the concepts grace and peace relate to each other as cause and effect. That is, God s gift of grace results in peace.) A literal translation of this greeting is grace to you and peace be multiplied (NKJV).) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:1 2) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Peter, who was an unschooled fisherman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) from Galilee and the former leader of the Jerusalem church, now writes a letter to Christians living in Asia Minor. He begins his letter with an address in which he teaches the readers basic Christian truths: the doctrine of election and the doctrine of the Trinity.) 1 12 2 8 0 0 Peter addresses his epistle to God s elect & who have been chosen. He reveals that election is God s work, that God wants a people for himself, and that the Triune God cares for his elect.) The doctrine of election provides genuine comfort and enormous encouragement for God s people. By electing his people, God demands a thankful response from them. He expects them to obey his commands and to do his will. Nevertheless, he knows our weaknesses and frailty and realizes that we fall occasionally into sin. Therefore, he has made available the sanctifying power of the Spirit and the lasting effect of the sprinkling of Christ s blood.) There is a fountain filled with blood,) Drawn from Immanuel s veins;) And sinners, plunged beneath that flood,) Lose all their guilty stains.) William Cowper) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:2) ��������� ���� ������ the genitive is subjective.

That is, ��������� (foreknowledge) belongs to God the Father and in harmony with it he reveals himself to his people.) ������ ��������� the ending -��� of the noun ������� (sanctification) expresses progressive activity. The dative case can either be instrumental or refer to sphere. Scholars prefer the instrumental dative. The case of ��������� (Spirit) is the subjective genitive .) �������x� �5����� because of the -��� ending, the noun ��������� (sprinkling) denotes progress. The noun is qualified by the word �5����� (blood) which points to the genitive case of 8���� �������. This genitive is subjective and as such relates only to �5����� and not to Q������ (obedience).

If the genitive of 8���� ������� is linked to Q������, it is objective . But a possible occurrence of the subjective and objective genitive in the same clause is difficult to explain. Therefore, I favor the use of the subjective genitive in the last part of this clause.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ���������� this is the aorist passive in the optative mood from the verb ������� (I multiply). The use of the passive indicates that God is the implied agent. The aorist is ingressive. And the optative connotes a wish 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 LXX).) 1 11 2 8 0 0 ) II. Salvation) 1:3 12) 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that your faith of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.) 10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, 11 trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.) ) A. A Living Hope) 1:3) Throughout his epistle, Peter encourages his readers to hope. Hope is based on a living faith in Jesus Christ.

It characterizes the believer who patiently waits for the salvation God has promised to his people. Hoping is disciplined waiting. ��18��) 3. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.) Filled to overflowing with spiritual blessings which he wants to convey to his readers, Peter writes one long sentence in Greek (vv. 3 9). In our modern versions, translators have divided this lengthy sentence. Nevertheless, the sentence itself reveals the intensity of the writer and the fullness of his message.

In the introductory part of this sentence we observe the following points:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.13|AUTODETECT|” a. Praise. This word is actually the first word in a doxology, for instance, at the conclusion of many books of the Psalms: Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.41.13|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 41:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.68|AUTODETECT|” ; and with variations 72:18; 89:52; 106:48). The word praise is common in the New Testament, too. Zechariah begins his song with an exuberant burst of praise: Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.68|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:68) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.25|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.3|AUTODETECT|” b. God and Father. Within the early church, Jewish Christians adapted the benedictions of their forefathers to include Jesus Christ. Note that the doxology in verse 3, Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is identical to the wording of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Corinthians 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Ephesians 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.31|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.31|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 God has revealed himself in his Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, all the elect share in his sonship. Through him they call God their Father, for they are his children. With the church universal, the believer confesses the words of the Apostles Creed:) I believe in God the Father Almighty,) Maker of heaven and earth.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.17|AUTODETECT|” Because of Jesus Christ, we call his Father our Father and his God our God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.17|AUTODETECT|” John 20:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Fatherhood is one of the essential characteristics of God s being; it is part of his deity. God is first Father of Jesus, and then because of Christ he is Father of the believer.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Peter indicates our relationship to the Father and the Son when he uses the personal pronoun our . Also, in the next sentence, Peter discloses that God is our Father because God has given us new birth. That is, the Father has begotten us again in giving us spiritual rebirth. The Father has given us rebirth because of our Lord Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.3|AUTODETECT|” c. Lord. Verse 3 is the only text in this epistle in which Peter writes the title and names our Lord Jesus Christ. With the pronoun our, Peter includes himself among the believers who confess the lordship of Jesus Christ. To call Jesus Lord is to declare that he is God. ��19�� Moreover, in the early church Christians confessed their faith in the brief statement Jesus is Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.3|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The name Jesus encompasses the earthly ministry of the Son of God, and the name Christ refers to his messianic calling. Four times in three verses (vv. 1 3) Peter employs the name Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.4-49.2.5|AUTODETECT|” d. Mercy. Peter describes our relationship to God the Father by saying, In his great mercy he has given us new birth. We read almost the same wording in one of Paul s epistles ( God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.4-49.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:4 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.15-61.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ]). Apparently Peter was acquainted with Paul s epistles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.15-61.3.16|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:15 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ). Together with the other apostles, Peter presents Christian doctrine on regeneration 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 e. Birth. Notice that we receive a new spiritual birth from God the Father. Peter writes that God has given us new birth (v. 3), and later he continues, For you have been born again (v. 23). Just as we are passive in natural birth, so we are in spiritual birth. That is, God is active in the process of begetting us, for he causes us to be born again.

With the words new and again in these two verses, Peter shows the difference between our natural birth and our spiritual birth.) Peter speaks from personal experience, for he remembers when he fell into the sin of denying Jesus. Later, when Jesus restored him to apostleship, he became the recipient of God s great mercy and received new life through restoration. Therefore, he includes himself when he writes, He has given us new birth (italics added). Incidentally, the passages in which Peter uses the personal pronouns our or us are few (1:3; 2:24; 4:17). First Peter is an epistle in which the author addresses his readers as you. The infrequent use of the first person, singular (2:11; 5:1, 12) or plural, is therefore much more significant.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.5|AUTODETECT|” f. Hope. What is hope? It is something that is personal, living, active, and part of us. In verse 3, it is not something that pertains to the future 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��20�� Instead, it brings life to God s elect who are waiting with patient discipline for God s revelation in Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” g. Resurrection. What is the basis for our new life? Peter tells us that through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead God has made us alive and has given us living hope. Without the resurrection of Christ, our rebirth would be impossible and our hope would be meaningless. By rising from the dead, Jesus Christ has given us the assurance that we, too, shall rise with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.24|AUTODETECT|” ). Why? As Peter preached on Pentecost, God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus is the first one to break the bonds of death, so that through him we have our rebirth, and in him we have eternal life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.12|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.41|AUTODETECT|” Peter speaks as an eyewitness, for he had the unique experience of meeting Jesus after he rose from the grave. Peter ate and drank with Jesus and became a witness of Jesus resurrection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.41|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:3) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Twice in this short epistle Peter introduces teaching on the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1:3; 3:21). This teaching, to be sure, is central to the Christian religion. When the eleven apostles came together after Jesus ascension and prior to Pentecost, they chose a successor to Judas Iscariot. Peter, as spokesman, declared that this person had to be a follower of Jesus from the day of his baptism to the time of his ascension, and that he had to be a witness of Jesus resurrection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.31|AUTODETECT|” As an eyewitness to the resurrection of Jesus, Peter proclaimed this truth in his sermon to the multitude gathered in Jerusalem on Pentecost 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ). When he preached to the crowd at Solomon s porch, he said that God raised Jesus from the dead 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.40|AUTODETECT|” ; compare 4:2, 33). And last, when Peter spoke in the home of Cornelius at Caesarea, he taught the resurrection of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.40|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter testified to this truth throughout his ministry of preaching and writing.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:3) �P�����x� the verbal adjective reflects the passive mood; that is, God the Father is praised by his people. The clause lacks the verb. Therefore, some scholars insert the verb to be in the indicative, others supply it in the optative or imperative, and still others omit the verb altogether.) A ��x� ��v ����� note that the definite article governs both nouns, so that two aspects of the same person are stressed.��21��) A & ���������� between the definite article and the aorist active participle stands a prepositional clause beginning with ���� (according to). The participle derives from the compound verb �������� (I beget).) ���p & �0� & ��p & � notice the increased use of prepositions, particularly in this verse, but also in the entire passage (1:1 12). This is one of the stylistic features of this epistle that helps in determining the authorship of First Peter.) B. A Safe Inheritance) 1:4) 4.

And into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade kept in heaven for you.) The key word in this verse is inheritance. This particular word calls to mind the death of a person who has willed his property to immediate relatives and to charities. The writer of Hebrews puts it succinctly: In the case of a will, it is necessary to prove the death of the one who made it, because a will is in force only when somebody has died; it never takes effect while the one who made it is living (9:16 17).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Peter, however, places the word inheritance in the context of life. In the preceding verse (v. 3), he mentions the resurrection of Christ and the new birth which we receive through him. Instead of death there is life. Through the resurrection of Christ, we are recipients of the inheritance God has stored for us in heaven. Paul writes, We are heirs heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.18|AUTODETECT|” The Israelites knew the meaning of the word inheritance. When they traveled through the Sinai desert, they remembered that Abraham had received the promise of inheriting the land of Canaan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 15:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 7:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.4.25|AUTODETECT|” ). In the Promised Land, every Israelite had his own possession, sat under his own fig tree, and enjoyed the fruit of his own vine 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.4.25|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Nothing appeared to the Israelites more desirable than the quiet, prosperous, permanent possession of this land. ��22��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Israel s inheritance, however, was never safe and secure. Marauders from the desert would invade the land and plunder the possessions of the inhabitants. By contrast, in New Testament times the word inheritance has a totally different meaning 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.24|AUTODETECT|” 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It refers to the salvation the believers inherit when they leave this earthly scene and obtain eternal glory. The inheritance of the believers is kept in heaven, where God keeps it absolutely safe for us until the appointed time when we receive it.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 What do we inherit? Peter is unable to describe in positive terms the inheritance that is waiting for us. Ironically, because of its great value, he can describe it only in negative terms. He chooses three adjectives to tell us what our possession is not, and implies that these words reveal the true nature of the inheritance.) a. Imperishable) Our treasure is not subject to death or destruction; it can never perish. Moreover, it is not limited by time, but is eternal.) b. Undefiled) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.27|AUTODETECT|” It can never be spoiled, corrupted, or polluted. It remains free from any blemish and is pure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.27|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 12 2 8 0 0 c. Unfading) It is incapable of fading. When a flower is past its peak, its beauty fades. This can never be said of our inheritance that is kept in heaven for us.) Earthly possessions are subject to constant variation and change, but our eternal inheritance is safely guarded by God in heaven. Not only is our salvation kept safe, but also, Peter declares, we, the possessors of this inheritance, are protected by God s power.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:4) ����������� ������� the noun is a combination of ������ (a lot) and ������� (I possess). The noun is qualified by three adjectives that begin with the privative -�, to describe the inheritance.) ����������� from the verb ����� (I keep), this participle expresses continued action with the perfect tense, and with the passive it implicitly describes God as the agent.) �P������ note that in this verse the writer omits the definite articles.

The use of the plural is characteristic in the Hebrew language.) �0� Q��� the author changes his address from the first person plural (v. 3) to the second person plural. The presence of �0� with the accusative, instead of the dative Q���, reflects an increased use of prepositions in this epistle.) C. A Joyous Salvation) 1:5 6) 5. Who through faith are shielded by God s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.32|AUTODETECT|” a. Who through faith are shielded by God s power. In this particular verse every word is significant, yet the important term is shielded or guarded. In the Greek, this verb is a military term that can mean either to protect someone from danger or to prevent someone from escaping. When Paul was trying to escape from Damascus, the governor & had the city of the Damascenes guarded 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.32|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ). In a spiritual sense, the peace of God & will guard [our] hearts and minds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) so that evil cannot touch us. This is the meaning Peter conveys when he writes that the believers are shielded by God s power. We are being shielded during our brief stay on this earth, for God does not permit Satan to harm us.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.16|AUTODETECT|” We are shielded by God s power through faith. Paul s imagery conveys this truth: Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter teaches the doctrine of God s providence. When he speaks of faith, he mentions both God s protective power and human responsibility. That is, although God has promised to protect us, we must employ our faith in our fight against the evil one. Faith in God is both objective and subjective. Objective faith means that God is seen without rather than felt within. ��23�� But faith has its subjective side, too, as the numerous references to faith in First Peter demonstrate.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” b. Until the coming of the salvation. Why does God shield us? Our salvation which we now have in principle becomes our possession in reality when we enter the portals of heaven. God protects us so that we may receive our full inheritance when it is revealed in the last time. The expression salvation is a synonym of inheritance (v. 4).

Peter uses an astonishing variety of expressions for the coming salvation of the end-time (for example, a living hope [1:3], God s wonderful light [2:9], the gracious gift of life [3:7], inherit a blessing [3:9], crown of glory [5:4], and eternal glory [5:10]).��24�� We joyfully look forward to claiming our salvation. Even as we now taste the goodness of God by experiencing salvation in principle, we know that the fullness of our inheritance shall be made known in due time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 14 2 8 0 0 c. That is ready to be revealed in the last time. The term ready relates to salvation and not to the verb revealed. Our salvation has been prepared for us by Christ through his atoning work. It will be revealed in a single moment at God s appointed time. Everyone shall see the inheritance, but only the believers shall possess it.

The word revealed in the Greek means to take away the veil or the cover. Jesus will remove the veil when he returns to grant us salvation full and free.) How vast the benefits divine) Which we in Christ possess!) We are redeemed from sin and shame,) And called to holiness.) Tis not for works that we have done,) These all to Him we owe;) But He of His electing love) Salvation doth bestow.) Augustus M. Toplady) Revised by Dewey Westra) ) Practical Considerations in 1:4 5) When we learn that our names are mentioned in a will, we know that we have a share in an inheritance described in that will. Often we do not know the value of that inheritance. We have to wait for the death of the testator and for legal transactions and financial settlements. After the period of waiting is over, however, the value of the inheritance often has diminished.

Also, the distribution of the inheritance frequently causes jealousy and strife.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” By contrast, our eternal inheritance is a constant source of happiness. From the moment of our salvation we are filled with joy. Granted that we possess our inheritance in principle now, we know that when we leave this earthly scene we receive our full inheritance. We are unable to comprehend the value of this inheritance, for the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Furthermore, we cherish that gift in perfect harmony with all believers in the presence of our living testator, Jesus Christ.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 6. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.) We note these points:) a. Rejoice) Peter writes, In this you greatly rejoice. But what does he mean by the word this? We have no fewer than three interpretations.) First, the pronoun this has its antecedent in the last words of the preceding verse, in the last time (v. 5). But then the pronoun does not match the present tense of the main verb rejoice.

For this reason, some translators put the verb in the imperative mood, be glad about this (GNB), or in the future tense, you will rejoice then (Moffatt). However, none of the verbs in the first chapter are imperatives, so a single command to rejoice seems to be a little out of place.��25�� In the Greek text the present tense, not the future tense, occurs. Consequently, if we adopt the reading of the New International Version, we cannot link the pronoun this to the phrase in the last time.) Next, we can translate the phrase in this as in whom. Then the masculine form whom refers to the God and Father of Jesus Christ (v. 3). The objection to this translation is that the pronoun whom is too far removed from its antecedent, God and Father. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.17|AUTODETECT|” In the third interpretation, which we prefer, the pronoun this relates to the experience of rebirth and the anticipation of salvation (see vv. 3 5).��26�� The main verb, accordingly, we understand as a present indicative; that is, as a declarative statement: In this you greatly rejoice. The gift of salvation is a cause of great rejoicing and for raising shouts of joy. In his first epistle, Peter mentions joy three times. He does this to encourage his readers, who are experiencing suffering and persecution (1:6, 8; 4:13). The sufferings they endure are insignificant when compared with the joy they will experience at the end of time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.17|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��27��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 b. Endure) Peter sympathizes with the readers, who are enduring hardships of various kinds. He writes, Though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. The wording is an echo of a verse in the Epistle of James: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds (1:2).) This is the first time Peter mentions the word suffer (compare 4:13; 5:10). In the original, the word means to become sad, sorrowful, distressed. ��28�� The verb is in the past tense and undoubtedly relates to a particular incident that caused grief and suffering. First, although the exact time and duration of suffering are not known, this period of suffering is brief in relation to eternity.

And second, the ordeal of suffering is necessary in accordance with God s purpose. Peter firmly believed in the reality of God s sovereign presence in the lives of His people. ��29��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.13|AUTODETECT|” The trials which the believers experience come from God s hand. These trials, in whatever form they appear, are ordained by God. Note that the word is trial, not temptation. God never tempts anyone 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.13|AUTODETECT|” James 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but he tests the believer to strengthen his faith.) 1 16 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:5 6) Verse 5) ��z� & ������������� the participle (from the verb �������, I guard) is in the present tense to stress continued action. The author marks the significance of the prepositional phrase � ������� ���� (by God s power) by placing it between the definite article and the participle. The preposition � (by) is instrumental.) ������������ this aorist passive infinitive from ��������� (I reveal) is an infinitive of purpose. The aorist shows single occurrence and the passive implies that God is the agent. The verb refers to two parts: �� (away) and ������� (covering).) ������ the noun signifies God s appointed time, whereas ������ is chronological time.) Verse 6) ��������� the verb can be either a present indicative or a present imperative . Scholars favor the present indicative because of contextual evidence.) �0 ���� ��v� if need be.

The participle is from the incomplete verb ��� (it is necessary). The inclusion of the verb ���� is debatable.) ���������� this aorist passive participle from the verb ����� (I grieve, am sorrowful) is concessive.) D. A Genuine Faith) 1:7) 7. These have come so that your faith of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.) Note these features:) a. Testing) Peter seems to anticipate the question about why a believer has to experience trials in his life. He replies, These have come so that your faith & may be proved genuine.

A literal translation of the Greek has this reading: So that the testing of your faith & may prove to be for praise and glory (MLB).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.1-1.22.19|AUTODETECT|” God tests the believer to see if his faith is genuine. Thus he asks Abraham to go to Mount Moriah to sacrifice Isaac 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.1-1.22.19|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:1 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.6-18.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ), and does so to prove Abraham s faith. In the case of Job, God permitted Satan to attack the believer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.6-18.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Job 1:6 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Testing is a process that demands time. But after time has elapsed and the process of testing has ended, the result of the test becomes visible, namely, a genuine faith.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Abraham triumphed in faith when he heard the angel of the Lord say, Now I know that you fear God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.42.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Because of Job s faith, God blessed the latter part of Job s life more than the first 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.42.12|AUTODETECT|” Job 42:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, God doubled Job s possessions. Note that the word testing occurs twice in the New Testament, here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.3|AUTODETECT|” James 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , The testing of your faith develops perseverance. Each writer uses the word for his own purposes.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 b. Perishing) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Whereas James writes that the testing of your faith develops perseverance (1:3), Peter compares this testing to the process by which gold is refined. Throughout the centuries gold has been treasured as a precious and stable commodity. This highly prized metal is mentioned 385 times in the Bible, more often than any other metal. ��30�� Gold serves as a standard in determining monetary transactions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Peter states that faith is of greater value than gold; faith excels this universally prized commodity because it originates in heaven and is a gift of God. Faith is everlasting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.19|AUTODETECT|” ). By contrast, gold eventually perishes through use or abuse. This precious metal is refined by fire so that all impurities are removed and pure gold of 24 karats remains. Peter, however, observes that even though gold is refined by fire, it perishes. The obvious implication of the comparison is that if perishable gold is purified, how much more should abiding faith be tested in the life of the Christian? The believer expresses true faith by completely trusting God. He knows that God will meet all [his] needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 c. Appearing) What is the result of faith that is tested? Peter answers that it results in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. He is not giving this sequence of three responses to embellish a sentence. The believer proclaims his praise to God in prayer, psalm, and hymn. His praise includes gratitude to God for the divine favor given to him through Christ Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” The terms glory and honor occur in doxologies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The believer shall share in heavenly glory and honor when at the end of his earthly life he enters the presence of Jesus Christ. Peter says that these three qualities are present when Jesus Christ is revealed. He does not tell us when Jesus will return, but he refers to the appointed time when every eye shall see Jesus. Then all believers in heaven and on earth will sing praises and attribute honor and glory to the Son of God.) 1 31 2 8 0 0 ) Practical Considerations in 1:7) Gold is the monetary standard among the nations of the world and serves to determine the value of currencies. The value of gold, however, is set by world markets. That is, man determines the price of gold.) By comparison, faith, which is more precious than gold, originates not in the mines of the earth but in heaven. Faith is refined in the crucible of man s trials. Faith is God s gift to man. God, not man, determines the value of faith; and he reveals that the goal of man s faith is his salvation (1:9).) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:7) ������� the genitive case is due to the comparative adjective ������������� (more precious).) �� this participle is more than a conjunction.

It is adversative and means nevertheless. ) �Q���� from the verb �Q����� (I find), this form is the aorist passive subjunctive. For the passive, God is the implied agent.) ��������� the noun signifies the objective revelation of Jesus Christ. The ending of the noun indicates that this revelation is a process.) E. A Glorious Joy) 1:8 9) Peter returns to the subjects joy (see v. 6) and faith (vv. 5, 7). In effect, he is presenting a summary of the preceding paragraph so that his readers may fully understand the significance of the Christian virtues: faith, hope, and love. Note that in verses 3 9 he teaches the meaning of these three virtues.) 8.

Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9. for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.) These two verses depict parallelism and balance. To demonstrate this point, I place the parallel lines in separate columns:) though you have) not seen him,) you love him; and even) though you do) not see him now,) you believe in him ) and are filled with an) inexpressible and glorious joy,) for you are receiving ) the goal of) your faith, the salvation of) your souls. ) ) ) a. Believe) Peter implies that he has seen the Lord, and that the readers of his epistle have not had this privilege. Notice that Peter uses the first person plural in verse 3: Our Lord Jesus Christ & has given us new birth. But in verse 8 he employs the second person plural you: Though you have not seen him. Also notice the past tense, have not seen him.

He contrasts the past tense with the present tense of the parallel statement, And even though you do not see him now, you believe in him. All these points imply that Peter has seen the Lord and that he is an eyewitness of Jesus ministry. Later in the epistle he explicitly calls himself a witness of Christ s sufferings (5:1).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Because of time and distance, the recipients of Peter s letter had not seen Jesus; yet, because of the gospel, they love Jesus and believe in him. Indeed, they are a living commentary on the beatitude Jesus spoke to Thomas: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” John 20:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.20|AUTODETECT|” ). They love Jesus and put their trust in him, even though they are unable to see him in this earthly life. The recipients do this on the basis of the message spoken by the apostles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.20|AUTODETECT|” John 17:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.7|AUTODETECT|” ). As Paul put it, We live by faith, not by sight 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also see 4:18).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Is it possible that the apostles who saw and heard Jesus were of the opinion that their faith in the Lord was not so great as the faith of those who would believe without seeing Jesus?��31�� This possibility is real, first, because Peter was present when Jesus spoke the beatitude to Thomas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” John 20:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Second, Peter resorts twice to the use of concessive clauses that in translation begin with the word though though you have not seen him and though you do not see him now. Third, he stresses the temporal adverb now. In brief, Peter commends the readers for their faith in Jesus Christ.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 b. Joy) You believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. Already in this present life believers experience indescribable joy; they do not have to wait until they leave this earthly scene. Even now they are filled with joy that is inexpressible and glorious. ) The emphasis in this part of the verse is on the joy that fills the hearts of Christians. A literal translation conveys this concept in both verb and noun: You greatly rejoice with joy (NASB). This is the second time in this first part of his epistle that Peter introduces the subject joy. Peter repeats the word he used earlier, you greatly rejoice (v. 6). The word depicts shouting for joy that cannot be contained.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Besides, Peter qualifies the noun joy with two unusual adjectives: inexpressible and glorious. The first word, inexpressible, occurs nowhere else in the New Testament. Peter uses it to describe the activity of a person who possesses great joy. That person cannot express his joy in human terms. In fact, he copes with not only an inability but also an impossibility to convey the depth of his joy. The second word, glorious, signifies that which has been glorified and continues to be glorified. It connotes the presence of heavenly glory that characterizes this particular joy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. Receive) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.18|AUTODETECT|” The writer states the reason for this joy. He says, For you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. Although many translators have chosen the verb to receive to convey the meaning of the Greek,��32�� the word means to obtain something that is due to a person. In this case, the word signifies that through the work of Christ the believer obtains salvation.��33�� Already in this life the Christian claims for himself the salvation Christ provides 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.18|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 10 2 8 0 0 What do believers obtain? Peter gives them a direct answer. He tells them that they will obtain the goal of [their] faith, as the New International Version has it. The text actually says, the end of your faith. However, if we stop at this point, Peter s answer is deficient, for we need to know what the goal of faith is. Peter, however, completes the sentence by adding the explanatory phrase the salvation of your souls.) Scripture teaches that salvation belongs to us already in principle.

We will have full possession when we are with Christ eternally. The wording of verse 9, the salvation of your souls, agrees with the teaching of numerous New Testament passages that our salvation in Christ affects our total life.��34�� Christ Jesus saves completely, so that every believer can say:) He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood,) and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil.) He also watches over me in such a way) that not a hair can fall from my head) without the will of my Father in heaven:) in fact, all things must work together for my salvation.��35��) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:8 9) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.11|AUTODETECT|” What is joy? Joy is not only an emotional outburst that lasts momentarily. It is not simply a response to external circumstances that favor and encourage expression of joy. Joy often appears in the midst of hardship, suffering, trials, and persecutions. Joy is a gift that we receive from God, for Scripture shows that God is the giver of joy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 16:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.24|AUTODETECT|” John 16:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This gift, then, comes to the believer who puts his complete trust in God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.4-42.15.10|AUTODETECT|” Joy is a gift that must be shared with others. The shepherd who finds his sheep and the woman who finds her coin share their joy with neighbors, while the angels in heaven rejoice over one sinner who repents 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.4-42.15.10|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15:4 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.9-43.15.11|AUTODETECT|” ). In Scripture, joy is often related to God s almighty acts of saving man. As a result, man expresses his joy by loving God and by obeying his commands 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.9-43.15.11|AUTODETECT|” John 15:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ).��36�� And last, joy is the fruit of the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 20 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:8 9) Verse 8) C� �P� 0������ the relative pronoun E� has its antecedent in Jesus Christ (v. 7). The aorist active participle (from the verb �6���, I saw) is negated by the adverb �P� while the present participle A������ (from A���, I see) has the negative adverb ��. The first participle with a negative adverb relates to history; the second refers to present reality. Both participles denote concession although. ) ���������� this is a verbal adjective that is active in a sense.��37�� The adjective consists of the privative - (not), the preposition � (out of), and a form derived from the verb ����� (I speak).) ����������� from the verb ������ (I glorify), this perfect passive participle expresses lasting effect.) Verse 9) ����������� the present middle participle of the verb ��������� (I receive, obtain) has a causal meaning. It gives the reason for inexpressible joy.) Q��� although one leading manuscript (Codex B) omits the pronoun, others include it. Scholars generally favor its inclusion.) �������� ����� the absence of the definite article makes these two nouns distinct.

The emphasis falls on the concept the salvation of your souls.) F. An Intensive Search) 1:10 11) 10. Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, 11. trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.) What do these two verses teach? In summary, the main points of the passage are these:) 1. The Old Testament prophets taught the doctrine of salvation.) 2. They researched and investigated this subject.) 3.

They tried to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit pointed.) 4. The Spirit predicted Christ s sufferings and glory.) Peter relates the teaching of salvation to the prophecies of the Old Testament. He concludes that the topic salvation has been:) a. Prophesied) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.26-42.24.27|AUTODETECT|” Concerning this salvation, the prophets & spoke of the grace that was to come to you. Who are these prophets? Peter mentions no names but has in mind all of the Old Testament prophets, from Moses to Malachi. They are the prophets to whom Luke refers when he records the conversation of Jesus and the two men on the way to Emmaus: Did not the Christ have to suffer these things and then enter his glory? Luke adds, And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.26-42.24.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:26 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Directed by the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.21|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), these prophets taught the grace that was to come. The expression grace is more comprehensive than its synonym salvation. It includes God s gracious rule in relation to man s redemption. Here are two examples:) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.10|AUTODETECT|” Jacob on his deathbed says, The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler s staff from between his feet, until he comes to whom it belongs and the obedience of the nations is his 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.10|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.44|AUTODETECT|” Daniel, interpreting Nebuchadnezzar s dream, prophesies, In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, & it will itself endure forever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.44|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 2:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Did the prophets understand what they were prophesying? Peter states that they searched intently and with the greatest care. ) b. Searched) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.11|AUTODETECT|” The prophets received God s revelation but did not always understand what their prophecies meant. However, they did not shrug their shoulders when they failed to understand the significance of their words; instead they searched diligently and carefully to determine the meaning of God s Word 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.15-27.7.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.15-27.7.16|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:15 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” John 12:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The prophets took their task seriously, for their words concerned the salvation of man. And about this salvation, they wished to know as much as possible. Therefore, they were trying to find out the time and circumstances of which the Holy Spirit spoke.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 c. Investigated) Instead of the reading [they] were trying to find out the time and circumstances, a few translations have they inquired what person or time was indicated (RSV, italics added).��38�� The prophets knew that the Messiah would be coming, but they had no knowledge when he would app ear or what the circumstances of his appearance would be. Therefore they inquired about the when and how of the Messiah s coming. In general, scholars favor the reading time and circumstances to person or time. ��39��) The prophets, of course, received God s revelation about the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah prophesied about his birth (7:14; 9:6; 11:1), his ministry (11:2 5; 35:4 6; 61:1 2), and his suffering and death (52:13 53:12). And Micah predicted the place of his birth: Bethlehem (5:2).

When they prophesied, these men were filled with God s Spirit.) d. Predicted) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.7|AUTODETECT|” Not the prophets but the Holy Spirit predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. Peter says that it was the Spirit of Christ who was in them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.7|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter indicates that Christ existed before he came to dwell among men. Through his Spirit Christ directed the prophets and thus inspired their writings.��40��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The wording of the text reveals that a constant interaction between the prophets and the Spirit of Christ took place. That is, the prophets were constantly investigating the meaning of their prophecies, and the Spirit of Christ, working in them, was repeatedly pointing to the time and circumstances disclosed in these prophecies. The Spirit, then, revealed to them by means of predictions what the Christ had to endure. Note that in this passage, Peter unequivocally teaches the preexistence of Christ when he writes, the Spirit of Christ in them & predicted the sufferings of Christ. In the Greek, the present tense of the verb predict (as a participle) indicates the repeated nature of this activity. Christ made these predictions centuries before their fulfillment.) Notice that the Spirit of Christ reveals these predictions to the prophets of the Old Testament era.

These prophets assumed the task of searching diligently for the meaning of these prophecies. In brief, we draw the conclusion that in this passage Peter teaches the doctrine of verbal inspiration.��41��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.7|AUTODETECT|” The psalmist and the prophets reveal the sufferings of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.22.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 22:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter writes the term suffering in the plural to stress the magnitude and variety of the pain and sorrow Jesus had to endure. However, Peter contrasts Jesus suffering with the glories that would follow. Note the use of the plural, glories. The plural refers to the glory of Jesus resurrection, the glory of his ascension, and the glory of his return.��42��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 ) Practical Considerations in 1:10 11) An amazing characteristic of Scripture is its clarity, for God speaks to us in simple terms. For that reason, the Reformers of the sixteenth century taught about the perspicuity of Scripture. What they meant by perspicuity is that anyone guided by the Holy Spirit is able to read and understand the Bible because of its clarity. They acknowledged that some passages of Scripture are difficult to interpret; nevertheless they realized that the basic message of the Bible is clear.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.11|AUTODETECT|” The Bible is still a best seller, but the people who regularly read it are a minority. Furthermore, persons who search the Scriptures, as the Bereans did in Paul s day 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.11|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ), are in a class by themselves; they usually attend a seminary or Bible college. But serious Bible study should not be limited to one particular group of people. The Bible is an open book in which God tells us about the riches of salvation we have in Christ Jesus. Therefore, study the Scriptures to be wise in respect to salvation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.15|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 16 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:10 11) Verse 10) ��������� this compound verb from � (out of) and ����� (I seek) has a perfective meaning: search intently. The verb is in the aorist, which signifies that the prophets belonged to the Old Testament era.) ���������� a verb that occurs only here in the New Testament, it is a compound with a perfective stress: inquire carefully. ) Verse 11) ��������� the present tense of this participle denotes a continual process. This form is more comprehensive than the compound verb of verse 10.) ������ a fixed time, determined by God and referred to in prophecy.) ����� the imperfect tense of the verb ����� (I show, point out) indicates repeated action in the past.) G. A Personal Revelation) 1:12) Peter is about to conclude his discussion on salvation. He has presented this topic by looking at the three Christian virtues: faith, hope, and love. Furthermore, he has described the joy of the believers, for they are indescribably rich in respect to their spiritual inheritance.

And he has reminded them of the teachings of the Old Testament prophets. Now he concludes his reference to these prophets and says:) 12. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.) a. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you. Peter does not specify how and when the Old Testament prophets received the information that they were serving future generations.

By his use of the past tense, he seems to indicate that this information came in a general way. Here are a few examples taken from the Old and the New Testaments:) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.24.17|AUTODETECT|” In his fourth oracle Balaam says, I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.24.17|AUTODETECT|” Num. 24:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” Moses tells the Israelites, The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 18:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.8-19.16.11|AUTODETECT|” On Pentecost, Peter quotes a psalm of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.16.8-19.16.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 16:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.31|AUTODETECT|” ) to illustrate Christ s resurrection. Peter calls David a prophet and says, Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” In his sermon after he healed the crippled man, Peter quotes ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” Deuteronomy 18:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.24|AUTODETECT|” , applies it to Christ, and adds, Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��43��) 1 4 2 8 0 0 In the Greek, the past tense of the verb were serving reveals that the prophets kept on doing so.) b. When they spoke of the things that have now been told. In this segment of the verse we note, first, that the word things is most important. This word refers to the sufferings and glories of Christ (v. 11) and summarizes the content of the gospel. The message of the Old Testament prophets as they prophesied concerning the life, death, and resurrection of Christ was not self-serving. Rather, their prophecies continue to be a ministry to the church of the New Testament era.) Accordingly, we note next that Peter emphasizes the word now.

He is speaking of the gospel that is being preached in his day. He links the message of the Old Testament with that of the New Testament and thereby implicitly teaches the unity of Scripture.��44�� Peter looks at the Old Testament messianic prophecies in the light of their New Testament fulfillment; he confirms that Jesus has fulfilled these prophecies. Lutheran commentator R. C. H. Lenski astutely observes, The whole New Testament gospel rests on the Spirit s Old Testament testimony that was made through the Old Testament prophets.

Cancel that testimony, and you remove the basis of the gospel of Christ. ��45��) c. By those who have preached the gospel to you. The recipients living in Asia Minor (modern Turkey) heard the gospel from missionaries who had come to their area. The statement is too general to determine whether Peter himself was one of these missionaries. The phrase preached the gospel alludes to the spiritual darkness in which the recipients were before these missionaries came.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.13|AUTODETECT|” d. By the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. The Spirit inspired the prophets in Old Testament times. On the day of Pentecost, however, he descended from heaven to guide and direct those who proclaim the gospel. Thus, the Holy Spirit directed the apostles and their helpers and gave them divine power, so that their message was not the word of man but the word of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.13|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” e. Even angels long to look into these things. Angels surround the throne of God, are messengers sent by God to serve man who inherits salvation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.7|AUTODETECT|” ), rejoice when a sinner repents 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.31|AUTODETECT|” ), and gather the elect on the judgment day 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.31|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Nevertheless their knowledge of man s salvation is incomplete, for they long to look into the mystery of salvation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” The verb look into in the original actually means to gaze at with out-stretched necks. (In his epistle, James uses the same verb with reference to a mirror, presumably fastened on a table. People would bend their bodies to look into the mirror [1:23 24]).��46�� Angels will learn about salvation through the church. As Paul says, [God s] intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 16 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:12) ��������� the imperfect active of �������� (I serve) signifies continual action in the past. The verb itself refers to general services of any kind.��47��) �P�� this pronoun is important because it controls the entire verse. It looks back to the sufferings of Christ and the glories, and it points ahead to the two relative pronouns (which) and �0� (into which).) ���������� the aorist passive of �������� (I send) alludes to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost which Peter experienced personally.) ��������� from ���� (beside) and �����(I bend), this aorist active infinitive denotes that angels have not had the opportunity to come to a full knowledge of salvation.) III. Holiness) 1:13 2:3) ) A. Be Holy) 1:13 16) 13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 14 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: Be holy, because I am holy. ) ) As the Old Testament prophets searched God s revelation in an effort to understand its meaning, so the recipients of Peter s letter ought to take the Word of God no less seriously. God has given Christian believers his Word and through it his assurance of their salvation.) 13.

Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.) Believers, having received the gift of salvation (see v. 9), cannot take this treasure for granted. They are children of God and thus are expected to do the will of their heavenly Father (v. 14). Peter tells them what to do in a series of commands.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.35|AUTODETECT|” a. Prepare your minds for action. In the Greek, the literal wording is, Gird up the loins of your mind (NKJV). The double metaphor loins and mind is somewhat confusing. But the picture is clear when we think of a first-century person who tucked the folds of his long, flowing garment under his belt so that he was no longer hindered in his walk or work 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.46|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 18:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.31.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.31.17|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 31:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter then applies that imagery to the mind. He is saying: Let nothing hinder your mind as you put it to work. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9-40.6.10|AUTODETECT|” What is the meaning of the term mind? It refers to the believer s spiritual consciousness, that is, his conscious relationship to God. The term also means that his mind is ready and able to think actively to promote God s name, will, and kingdom 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9-40.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:9 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The mind ought to be free from any hindrance (for example, fear or worry) to serve the Lord.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 b. Be self-controlled. Three times in this epistle Peter exhorts the readers to be self-controlled (1:13; 4:17; 5:8). He wants us to have clear minds and sound judgment so that we are ready for the return of Jesus Christ.��48�� The mind must be free from rashness and confusion; it must reject the temptation to be influenced by intoxicating beverages or drugs. It must remain alert.) The translators of the New English Bible have adopted the reading perfectly self-controlled. They have taken the adverb perfectly (or fully), which can be understood with either the verb self-controlled or the verb hope (in the next clause), and have placed it with the first verb.

The choice is difficult to make, yet scholars generally take the adverb with the verb hope. One argument for this choice is that the command to be self-controlled needs no modifier, while the injunction to hope demands an adverb.��49��) c. Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you. In the Greek, this clause contains the main verb. The preceding exhortations, in fact, are subsidiary to the primary charge to hope. The concept hope is prominent in I Peter.

In the original Peter uses the word as a noun in 1:3, 21, and 3:15, and as a verb in 1:13 and 3:5.) Peter speaks a word of encouragement to his readers. He realizes that as they experience persecution and hardship their hope is waning. He encourages the believers to look expectantly toward the fulfilling of their salvation, for he wants them to have a living hope with respect to their inheritance (v. 3).) The preposition in the clause set your hope fully on the grace to be given you (italics added) is significant. Here hope is not in a person but in an object. That object is the grace to be given. Again, the word grace (see v. 10) is the equivalent of the two terms salvation (vv. 9 10) and inheritance (v. 4).

The believers, then, focus their attention on their salvation.) Note that Peter indicates that grace is to be given. The Greek says that grace is being brought, in the sense that it is already on the way. God is the active agent in bringing salvation to the believers, who themselves are passive recipients. They know that grace is brought to them through the work of Jesus Christ and will be made complete when he appears.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” d. When Jesus Christ is revealed. Here we have a repetition of the last part of verse 7. The wording is identical, and therefore the meaning does not vary. That is, the reference to Jesus appearing cannot be to his first coming but rather to his eventual return 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). When Jesus returns at the appointed time, he will bring to his followers the fulfillment of their salvation. When he appears, his redemptive work will be realized in all the believers. He grants them full salvation through deliverance from sin, glorification of body and soul, and the knowledge that he will be in their midst forever.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 In the next three verses, Peter warns the believers to avoid conformity with the world, urges them to strive for holiness, and confirms his words with a quotation from the Old Testament. Accordingly, we notice three points: a warning, an exhortation, and a confirmation. The first of these is a warning.) A Warning) 14. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.) As obedient children. Those who receive an inheritance usually are children of the person who has died and has left a last will and testament. We are called children, not by birth but by adoption.

Among the Greeks and the Romans of the first century, the practice of adopting was rather common. An adopted son enjoyed the same privileges as the natural son, even to the point of sharing the inheritance.) Parents train their children to be obedient, so that obedience is second nature to children. Obedience is expected from children but not from strangers. Peter literally calls the recipients of his letter children of obedience. This is a Semitic idiom��50�� that in translation becomes obedient children. Peter, however, uses the word order children of obedience to introduce the concept holiness.

Obedience and holiness are two sides of the same coin (see vv. 2, 22).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. Similarity between the writing of Peter and Paul is unmistakable in this verse. Paul tells his readers, Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). We have no reason to argue that the one writer depended on the other. Rather, both present the truth in similar wording.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The world has its own lifestyle to which believers often are drawn, but Peter warns them not to conform to the evil desires that are prominent in the world. New Testament writers, in their epistles, repeatedly warn the Christians to reject the ways of the world and to live in obedience to God s Word.��51��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Peter refers to the background of some of the original recipients of this letter. They were pagans who lived in ignorance and who were separated from God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ). They were ignorant of the moral law of God and therefore their conduct was governed by evil desires. By contrast, the Jew had received the very words of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.4-3.18.5|AUTODETECT|” ) and knew that his first duty was to obey God s law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.18.4-3.18.5|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 18:4 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.4-5.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.6.4-5.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 6:4 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter, then, addresses not only Jewish Christians, but also readers who formerly were pagans (see 2:10).) 1 10 2 8 0 0 The negative command do not conform (v. 14) is a prohibition, whereas the positive precept be holy (v. 15) is an exhortation. Peter knows that the temptation for readers to return to their former conduct is real and that some of them may have succumbed. Therefore, he commands them to stop heeding sinful desires and to yield their lives instead in obedience and holiness to God.) The apostle next writes an exhortation.) An Exhortation) 15. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.) The word but introduces the positive aspect of this passage. Peter informs the readers that God has called them out of darkness into his wonderful light (2:9). They are now the ones who have been called out of the world; they are the elect (1:1 2; 2:9).

In his electing love, God effectively calls his people to form a holy nation (2:9). In brief, calling and holiness are cause and effect.) God calls his people to be holy because he is holy. Among God s characteristics, as he has revealed himself, none is more significant than his holiness. Both the Old and New Testaments speak about his holiness more than any other attribute of God.��52�� The descriptive adjective holy reveals God s absolute purity. This adjective describes the state and action of God s being. God is sinless, cannot be influenced by sin, and in his holiness destroys sin.) Peter takes the concept holy and applies it to his readers: As he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.

God calls his people out of a world of sin to a life of holiness; and he expects that whatever we do, say, or think is holy. The daily confession of the Christian ought to be:) So shall no part of day or night) From sacredness be free.) Horatius Bonar) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.48|AUTODETECT|” When Peter says, But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, he expects the believers to be imitators of God in respect to holiness. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus presents a similar injunction: Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.48|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.36|AUTODETECT|” ). And when he preaches elsewhere he says, Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.36|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 What is Peter s basis for exhorting the believers to avoid sin and strive for holiness? Peter opens the Scriptures and appeals to the highest authority. He offers confirmation of his teaching with words spoken by God himself.) A Confirmation) 16. For it is written: Be holy, because I am holy. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.4|AUTODETECT|” When Jesus was tempted by Satan, he disarmed the devil with the formula it is written and appropriate quotations from Scripture 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Satan acknowledged the authority of God s Word, even to the point of (mis)using it for his own purpose. That authority rendered Satan unable to tempt Jesus. The written word, then, demands respect and obedience.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.44-3.11.45|AUTODETECT|” Peter takes the written word from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.44-3.11.45|AUTODETECT|” Leviticus 11:44 45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . He appeals to Leviticus, for it features the theme holiness. Leviticus teaches that God s people ought to be holy, because God is holy.��53�� In fact, the adjective holy appears more often in Leviticus than in any other book of the Bible.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Be holy, because I am holy. For the believer, holiness does not end with forgiveness and cleansing of sin, but begins with an active life of opposing sin. The believer must strive to live obediently before God and thus demonstrate the meaning of the word holy.) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:14 16) In the world, the word holy is heard more as an expletive than as a term that evokes reverence and awe. In Christian circles, however, we call Jerusalem the holy city, Scripture the holy Bible, and the sacraments holy baptism and holy communion. When we describe someone or something with the adjective holy, we recognize a direct relationship with God in that person or thing.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.32|AUTODETECT|” That which we call holy we dedicate to God, because we deem it pure and in some cases even perfect.��54�� But we hesitate to call man holy, for sin has destroyed perfection and man will never reach perfection during his life on earth. Yet the Bible calls us saints; that is, we are made holy through Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.32|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” 26:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.10|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22-49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” ). As saints we receive God s call to holy living 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22-49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.9-51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.9-51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:9 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23-52.5.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23-52.5.24|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:23 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Thus, as sanctified children of God we pray the petition, Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 27 2 8 0 0 ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:13 16) Verse 13) ����������� this aorist middle participle is a compound from the preposition ��(up) and ������� (I gird). The aorist signifies that the action should be a single occurrence. The middle implies that the person does the girding in his own interest. Because of its proximity to the main verb ������� (hope! [aorist imperative]), this participle is also translated as an imperative. In the New Testament, the compound in this form occurs only once.) �������� notice that this is a present participle in the active, whereas the preceding participle is in the aorist tense. This participle, translated as an imperative, is from the verb ���� (I am sober; self-controlled).) ������� ������� the adverb ������� (fully) modifies the verb hope.

The aorist is constative, that is, it is all-inclusive.) ��������� the present passive participle from the verb ���� (I bring, bear) takes an adjectival position in the clause: it stands between the definite article and the noun ����� (grace). The present tense denotes the process that is linked to the coming of Jesus Christ.) Verse 14) ���������������� this is a compound as a present passive participle derived from ��� (with) and ����� (form, shape, external appearance). As a participle it is influenced by the main verb in verse 15 (��������, be! [aorist imperative]) and is therefore translated as an imperative.) �� ����� notice the use of the definite article that denotes the ignorance of the recipients prior to their conversion.) Verse 15) �P��� the personal pronoun referring to the second person plural you is used for emphasis.) �������� from the verb �������� (I behave, conduct myself), this noun refers to a way of life. This noun occurs thirteen times in the New Testament; six uses are in I Peter (1:15, 18; 2:12; 3:1, 2, 16) and two in II Peter (2:7; 3:11).) �������� the aorist imperative ������� (I become) substitutes for the verb �0�� (I am), which lacks the aorist tense. The translation should be be holy and not become holy. The aorist is all-inclusive.) Verse 16) ����� this is a causal conjunction that looks forward to that which follows.) ��������� the perfect passive from ����� (I write) is a perfect of resultant state.

The perfect indicates lasting effect.) ����� the future tense of the verb �0�� (I am) is equivalent to a present imperative.) ) B. Live in Reverent Fear) 1:17 21) 17 Since you call on a Father who judges each man s work impartially, live your lives as strangers herein reverent fear. 18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.) ) Peter teaches, exhorts, and counsels his readers how they should live. He mentions again the relationship they have as God s children to God the Father, who is holy and just.) 17. Since you call on a Father who judges each man s work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.) Every word in this text is important and filled with meaning. Note that this verse is an introduction to the next four verses (vv. 18 21).) a. Since you call on a Father.

The translators of the New International Version have correctly captured the thought of this verse with the word since. A literal translation of the Greek is, And if you call on a Father. However, the conditional sentence expresses the reality of a long-standing practice, so that the words and if can mean since. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.26|AUTODETECT|” In the Greek, the word Father stands before the verb call on to receive special emphasis. Although the noun Father is without a definite article, in its absolute form it refers to God the Father. In other words, Peter indicates that he does not have in mind any father other than God the Father. Already in Old Testament times people called upon God as Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.26|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 89:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ). But the New Testament reveals that Jesus teaches us to pray intimately to the Father in the Lord s Prayer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul writes that we cry, Abba, Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.1-59.2.9|AUTODETECT|” When we call God our Father because we are his children, we should expect him to be our judge as well. Peter adds that the Father judges each man s work impartially. God does not favor anyone, whether he is rich or poor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.1-59.2.9|AUTODETECT|” James 2:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ), Jew or Gentile 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ), slave or master 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.7|AUTODETECT|” ).��55�� The text says that God judges without looking at man s face 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.7|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) and that God the Father is already judging the works of each man. No one is going to be excluded from judgment, for God will judge impartially man s every deed. Accordingly, when we invoke the Father s name, we face an impartial judge.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 What is the purpose of knowing that God is our Father and our judge? Peter continues, Live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. The Christian should consciously live in the presence of God. He knows that God s eye is constantly upon him. Moreover, he also realizes that the non-Christian is carefully observing him in regard to the words he speaks and the deeds he performs. Therefore, he must be a true child of God, so that in the child the virtues of the Father are reflected.��56��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” The New International Version has rightly translated the word fear by qualifying it with the adjective reverent. The relationship between God and his child is not one of dread but of respect. God wants his child to live as a stranger on the earth. That is, the child of God has his citizenship in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ). He is a stranger in the world (v. 1; 2:11) for the duration of the time God has given him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He is a pilgrim who seeks to please God in his daily conduct, who has deep reverence for God and his Word, and who knows that he has been bought with the price of Jesus blood (vv. 18 19).) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Next we read a paragraph of four verses in which Peter sets forth a short summary of the Christian faith. These verses teach the doctrines of redemption, revelation, and Christ s resurrection.) Redemption) 18. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19. but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.) Note, then, the first doctrinal point.) a. Redemption) This passage has a negative and a positive aspect. To put it differently, items that are perishable (silver and gold) are compared to Christ, whose blood has eternal significance.) 1. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed.

Here is a gentle reminder of what the readers know about their salvation: their knowledge of salvation has filled them with an inexpressible and glorious joy (v. 8). They know that God, through Christ, has redeemed them at an enormous cost.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.3|AUTODETECT|” Peter rates the cost of redemption first in terms of created things; they, of course, are subject to change and decay. He mentions two precious metals (silver and gold) that comparatively speaking are least perishable. First he specifies silver. But silver, when exposed to any sulphur compounds in the air, tarnishes, corrodes, and loses its value. Next Peter cites gold, which is more durable than silver. Even this precious metal is subject to decay. In brief, earthly possessions do not qualify as payment to redeem the believers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 52:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When we use the word redeem today, we think of it in a reflexive sense: I have redeemed myself. We mean that we have regained our former standing. We also use the word when we exchange trading stamps for commodities at a redemption center. Last, we can redeem something by buying it back or by fulfilling financial obligations (e.g., by repaying a loan).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.6|AUTODETECT|” What does Scripture say? In the Old Testament, God redeemed his people from the yoke of slavery in Egypt 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He accomplished this by sending ten plagues on Israel s oppressors. In the ancient world, slaves obtained freedom with a sum of money paid either by themselves or by someone else.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” In the New Testament, the focus shifts to Christ. We read that Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ).��57�� Paul says that Christ Jesus gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.130.8|AUTODETECT|” ; also compare ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.130.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 130:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter, too, uses the word redeem to refer to Christ s death and our deliverance from sin (1:18 19).��58��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.5-41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” 2. From the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers. The phrase empty way of life describes a lifestyle that is without purpose, unfruitful, and useless. The text provides no information whether Peter is referring to the forefathers of the Jews who lived by tradition instead of God s Word (Jesus rebuked the Jews for observing the traditions of the elders and setting aside the commands of God [) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.5-41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 7:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ]). Another possibility is that Peter thinks of the pagan forefathers of the Gentile readers; in his epistles Paul comments on the futile life of the Gentiles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). A third option is that Peter means the forefathers of both the Jews and the Gentiles.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.1-2.12.11|AUTODETECT|” 3. But with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. Here is the positive aspect of our redemption. Peter speaks as a Jew who is fully steeped in the Passover history and ritual. The Jewish people were set free from slavery when each family took a lamb without defect, slaughtered it at twilight on the fourteenth of the month Nisan, put the blood on the sides and tops of the doorframes of their homes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.1-2.12.11|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:1 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and ate the Passover.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” The writers of the New Testament teach that Christ is that Passover lamb. John the Baptist points to Jesus and says, Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul comments that our redemption has been accomplished through Christ Jesus because God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The writer of Hebrews declares that Christ did not enter the Most Holy Place by means of the blood of goats and calves but entered once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption (9:12). And John in Revelation has recorded a new song that the saints in heaven sing to Christ: You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation (5:9).) 1 11 2 8 0 0 The New Testament unfolds the teaching that Christ Jesus is our redeemer. In our Christian vocabulary, unfortunately, the word redeemer is not so common as the word savior. We readily acknowledge that Jesus Christ has saved us from the power and destruction of sin. Of even greater significance, however, is the truth that he has purchased us by shedding his precious blood on Calvary s cross. Of the two terms, therefore, the expression redeemer deserves more prominence than the word savior.��59��) With Philip P. Bliss every believer gratefully and joyfully sings:) I will sing of my Redeemer;) And His wondrous love to me;) On the cruel cross He suffered,) From the curse to set me free.) Revelation) 20.

He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake.) In this verse Peter formulates his second doctrinal theme:) b. Revelation) Notice that this text consists of two clauses that are balanced. For instance, the phrases before the creation of the world and in these last times are perfect counterparts. We note, first, that Christ Jesus was chosen.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|”

1. In eternity. The New International Version has, He was chosen. Many translators opt for a literal version of the Greek: he was foreknown. ��60�� The meaning of the Greek word is much more comprehensive than knowing something in advance. The word in context reveals God s divine purpose in election compare the wording of verse 2, where the teachings of election and foreknowledge are combined 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For this reason, other translators prefer to give the term foreknown (v. 20) a meaning that includes the concept destined or chosen.��61�� They see that God has assigned a predestined role to Christ in eternity.��62��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Peter puts the reference to time in terms we are able to understand. He writes, [Christ] was chosen before the creation of the world. Creation relates to the beginning of history, but Christ was chosen before that time. God did not create the world and then decide to choose Christ to assume his redemptive task. God appointed him in eternity, before the creation of the world. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
2. In these last times. The contrast between eternity and time is clear. Christ was chosen in eternity, but was revealed in time. The verb revealed is passive and implies that God is the agent. To be precise, the term points to the birth of Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” John 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.17|AUTODETECT|” ). Through conception and birth, Jesus entered this sinful world. He came for the purpose of saving the elect in a period which Peter describes as these last times. Peter means not merely the days of Jesus life on earth; rather, the entire period from Jesus birth to his eventual return comprises these last times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.17|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.1|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.25-45.16.26|AUTODETECT|” ). The plural times indicates the totality of time. However, Peter singles out the last part of it as that period in which the history of the world will come to an end. In this period the Lord Jesus Christ has been revealed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.25-45.16.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:25 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.9-55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.9-55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:9 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” The appointment of Christ in eternity and his appearance in time serve only one purpose: to redeem the believers. Peter writes to his readers that this happened for their sakes. Believers, whether Jew or Gentile, are highly privileged persons, for God loves them so much that he has given his only Son for their redemption, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Resurrection) 21. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.) Here is the last part of this doctrinal section. These four verses (vv. 18 21) appear to have belonged to an early Christian hymn or a doctrinal formulation.��63�� In this last part, the doctrine of the resurrection is prominent.) c. Resurrection) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” The readers have never seen Jesus, yet they believe in him (v. 8). Peter actually tells them that Jesus has given them faith so that they believe in God. Through Jesus Christ the believers come to know God the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” John 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Notice that the believers have faith in God, even though Christianity emphasizes a Christocentric approach to God. Yet faith in Christ is always in the context of the Trinity, so that Christians believe in the Triune God.��64��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.24|AUTODETECT|” Why do we believe in God? Because he raised Jesus from the dead! From the teachings of the New Testament we have learned that the cardinal doctrine of the Christian faith is belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.9|AUTODETECT|” 10:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, God raised Jesus from the dead and glorified him. That is, God perfected him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ) and exalted him by giving him a name that is above everything God has made 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). God, who predestined Christ in eternity to be our redeemer, could not leave him prey to death. Christ could not be held in the power of death, for God raised him on the third day.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.13-46.15.14|AUTODETECT|” And so your faith and hope are in God. The implication is that in Jesus resurrection, the believer has the assurance that he, too, will be raised from the dead. The basis of our faith is the resurrection of Jesus. Says Paul, If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.13-46.15.14|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:13 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Faith and hope are intimately linked (vv. 3, 5, 7, 9, 13). The one virtue strengthens the other. The glory Jesus now possesses will be our glory at the moment of our resurrection. That is the hope that supports our faith in the Triune God.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:18 21) Verses 18 19) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” When terrorists take hostages or kidnapers hold someone captive, they demand a ransom before they are willing to release their victims. In the New Testament the expression ransom also occurs. Jesus says, The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.5-54.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ). And Paul writes, For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men the testimony given in its proper time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.5-54.2.6|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:5 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Furthermore, the saying you were bought at a price occurs twice in Paul s epistles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.23|AUTODETECT|” 7:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.4|AUTODETECT|” 14:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” The biblical focus is on the price that is paid and the effects of deliverance; it is not on the one who demands or receives the ransom. Christ shed his precious blood on the cross. The effect of his death is the deliverance of his people. His people are set free from the curse of the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ), from sin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ), and from death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” To whom did Christ pay the ransom? Scripture gives no answer to this question and therefore we do well not to raise it. Christ did not pay Satan, because Christ defeated him. If God were demanding a ransom, he would be holding his own people hostage. Scripture tells us that God presented Christ as a sacrifice to demonstrate God s justice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Obviously, then, the question who receives the ransom? ought not to be asked.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Christ Jesus has met the demands of the law, has removed the curse that was upon us, and through his death has acquitted us. We have been redeemed by his precious blood.) Verses 20 21) Scripture teaches that Christ s appointment to redeem sinners took place in eternity and that Adam and Eve fell into sin sometime after they were created. The sequence of these two events appears unusual to our reasoning, because it does not follow the customary course of cause and effect. Normally the remedy comes after the disease has been diagnosed. That is, first Adam and Eve fall into sin, and then God appoints Christ to redeem them.) Sixteenth-century Reformer John Calvin comments that we should see God s foreknowledge, wisdom, and goodness in Christ s election and man s redemption. For herein shines forth more fully the unspeakable goodness of God, that he anticipated our disease by the remedy of hid grace, and provided a restoration to life before the first man had fallen into death. ��65��) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:17 21) Verse 17) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.9|AUTODETECT|” �������������� this is a compound adverb derived from the privative (not), the noun �������� (face), and the verb ������� (I receive). In this form it occurs only here in the entire New Testament. Without the privative it appears once as a verb 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.9|AUTODETECT|” James 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34|AUTODETECT|” ) and five times as a noun 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=59.2.1|AUTODETECT|” James 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 24 2 8 0 0 �x� �������������� �������� the present active participle from ����� (I judge) with the definite article modifies the noun ������ (father). The present tense denotes continued action.) �x� ������ note that this word signifies duration of time, not point of time as in ������.) Verse 18) ��� ������� ��������� the definite article in this context means the well-known empty way of life. Note the lack of definite articles in this section (vv. 18 21).) �������������� this compound occurs only once in the New Testament. It is a verbal adjective which is passive and expresses capability.) Verse 19) ��� a strong adversative that stresses the positive over against the negative statement of the preceding verse.) �5���� the noun relates to �������, and not to ���� (lamb). Notice that five words begin with the vowel . The lack of the definite article and the use of assonance strengthen the supposition that these lines are part of an early Christian hymn.) Verse 20) ������������� the perfect passive participle from the verb ���������� (I foreknow) is in the genitive case because of �������.

The prefix ��� reveals the preexistence of Christ.) ������������ the aorist passive participle of the verb ������� (I reveal) contrasts with the tense of the preceding perfect passive participle. The contrast is heightened with the use of ��� and ��.) Verse 21) ������� manuscript evidence favors the reading ����������� (present active participle). However, scribes would more readily change the adjective ������� to the participle form than vice versa. The more difficult reading, therefore, is the adjective �������.) e��� this conjunction introduces the result clause . One definite article governs the two nouns ������ and �����.) ) C. Love One Another) 1:22 25) 22 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart. 23 For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. 24 For,) All men are like grass) and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;) the grass withers and the flowers fall,) 25 but the word of the Lord stands forever. ) And this is the word that was preached to you.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” As a next step in their spiritual walk, Peter urges his readers to demonstrate their holiness by loving their fellow man. He wants them to live by the truth of the Word of God to implement Jesus teaching: Love one another 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” John 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ; also see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.23|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 22. Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.) Note these observations:) a. State) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.55|AUTODETECT|” Now that you have purified yourselves. Peter writes that the believers have cleansed themselves morally. He does not mean that they have washed their bodies or have undergone ceremonial cleansings to participate in a religious feast 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.55|AUTODETECT|” John 11:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.24|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.18|AUTODETECT|” 24:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.28-44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, the New Testament is devoid of ceremonial regulations except for the decree to abstain from eating sacrificial food, blood, or the meat of strangled animals, and from sexual immorality 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.28-44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:28 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ). We assume that the Gentile readers of Peter s epistle would be unacquainted with ceremonial cleansings.��66�� The readers understood the verb purify in terms of moral purity. They themselves have been and are personally involved in purifying themselves 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.8|AUTODETECT|” James 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 b. Means) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.9|AUTODETECT|” How do believers attain purity? Peter explains, By obeying the truth. He means that the believers are obedient to the truth of God s Word; when they live obediently in that sphere, they are pure. The sphere of obedience is God s revelation in Jesus Christ (v. 12). Peter implies that the readers have accepted the teachings of the gospel in faith. In a different and earlier context, when he addressed the Council of Jerusalem, Peter spoke in behalf of Gentile Christians and said, [God] made no distinction between us and them, for he purified their hearts by faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 c. Result) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.39|AUTODETECT|” So that you have sincere love for your brothers. When we obey the Word of God, we express our love not only to God but also to our neighbor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.37-40.22.39|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:37 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.6|AUTODETECT|” ). In the New Testament the words neighbor and brother have equal standing in respect to the command to love one s fellow man. Nevertheless, in the context of the New Testament epistles the word brother has a spiritual meaning; it refers to brothers and sisters in Christ.��67�� This brotherly love must be sincere 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.6|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 d. Command) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” The emphasis falls on the main verb, purposely placed in the last part of the verse: Love one another deeply, from the heart. Peter precludes the possibility that members of the Christian community will have only a liking for one another without deeply loving each other from the heart. Peter repeats the command first given by Jesus on the night of his betrayal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” John 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ) and taught by the apostles Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9|AUTODETECT|” 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.22|AUTODETECT|” ), Peter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.22|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 2:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ), and John 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.23|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Peter qualifies the command to love with two adverbial expressions: deeply and from the heart. These expressions convey the extent and the seriousness of love. When such love is present, it erases tension, abolishes enmity, and banishes hatred.) 23. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God.) Why should we love one another? Says Peter, Because you have been born again. Note that in the process of rebirth, the believers are passive. That is, God brings them through spiritual birth into this world. Once they are born again, the believers are active in the process of purifying themselves (v. 22).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.4|AUTODETECT|” When Nicodemus asks, How can a man be born when he is old? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.4|AUTODETECT|” John 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ), Jesus teaches him about spiritual birth. In the first chapter of his epistle, Peter mentions spiritual birth twice (vv. 3, 23). The verb born again means that God has given us spiritual life that is new. Without this new life, we are unable to enter the kingdom of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” ). We demonstrate that we possess this new life through faith in God s Son, Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.36|AUTODETECT|” John 3:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.5.11|AUTODETECT|” I John 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Moreover, the Greek text indicates that our spiritual rebirth occurred in the past and has lasting significance for the present and the future.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable. Peter describes rebirth first in negative and then in positive terms.) a. Negative) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.24|AUTODETECT|” One of the characteristics of seed is that it is designed to die; that is, seed loses its own form in the process of generating life. Jesus put it graphically to Philip and the Greeks: Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.24|AUTODETECT|” John 2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 b. Positive) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Interpreting the parable of the sower for the benefit of his disciples, Jesus said, This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ). The Word of God is imperishable; it regenerates, gives life, and nurtures, yet in the process remains unchanged. God provides the imperishable seed through his Word 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.13|AUTODETECT|” John 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.18|AUTODETECT|” James 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In his first epistle, John mentions that after spiritual birth (being born of God) has taken place, God s seed endures. He writes, No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God s seed remains in him (3:9). The seed is God s divine nature that resides within the child of God. Peter links the imperishable seed to the Word of God, which is living and enduring.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.6.26|AUTODETECT|” Through the living and enduring word of God. Because of the position of the adjectives living and enduring, the Greek text can be translated in two ways. Here is another version: the word of the living and eternal God (JB).��68�� This version not only is grammatically correct, but also has a parallel in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.6.26|AUTODETECT|” Daniel 6:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , For he is the living God and he endures forever. Nonetheless, scholars favor the first translation. They point out that the two adjectives describe the noun word better than the noun God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” ), especially when Peter supports this text with the quotation but the word of our God stands forever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). With these adjectives Peter calls attention not to God but to his Word.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 24. For,) All men are like grass,) and all their glory is like the flowers of the field;) the grass withers and the flowers fall,) 25a. but the word of the Lord stands forever. ) Peter appeals to the Old Testament Scriptures to substantiate his teachings. Admittedly, he does not introduce the quotation from Isaiah s prophecy with the formula it is written (v. 16) or in Scripture it says (2:6). Yet the conjunction for is sufficient to demonstrate that the quotation is from the Old Testament Scriptures. Throughout his epistle Peter repeatedly quotes them. He seems to have a preference for the prophecy of Isaiah, because he cites it more than any other book.��69��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.7|AUTODETECT|” The wording of this quotation differs slightly from the text in Isaiah. Peter omits the lines because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.7|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” ). And in the line but the word of our God stands forever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), he has changed the words our God to Lord. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.15|AUTODETECT|” All men are like grass. The term all excludes no one. Furthermore, man is frail, as the literal translation of the text shows: All flesh is like grass. Man s frailty is compared with grass that is here today and gone tomorrow 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.15|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 103:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.30|AUTODETECT|” ; and see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.11|AUTODETECT|” And all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall. The beauty of a flower is short-lived, especially in a tropical or subtropical climate; so is the glory that man radiates because of his talents, achievements, or riches 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.11|AUTODETECT|” James 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The winds of change blow and quickly remove all glory and honor. Peter gives no reason for the passing of man s glory. He uses the illustration of the grass and the flowers only to stress the contrast between temporal man and the abiding Word of God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.36-44.10.37|AUTODETECT|” But the word of the Lord stands forever. Even if we should forget everything else in this quotation, its concluding sentence is etched in our memories. In the Greek, the term word differs from its earlier use in verse 23, the living and enduring word of God. In verse 25 it can mean utterance. However, because Peter may have intended to do no more than use a synonym, we ought not to be dogmatic in our translation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.36-44.10.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:36 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which gives one translation for these two different words in Greek).��70��) 1 24 2 8 0 0 Peter s change from the wording but the word of our God to but the word of the Lord is deliberate. In the Old Testament, the word Lord signifies the self-disclosed name of the covenant-God of Israel, Yahweh, Jehovah. In the New Testament it is a standard designation for Jesus Christ. ��71�� With the term Lord Peter highlights Jesus divinity; he shows that the word of God is identical with the word of the Lord Jesus. For that reason, Peter concludes this section in these words:) 25b. And this is the word that was preached to you.) The word the apostles preached was the gospel of Jesus. God revealed himself in Jesus Christ, whose gospel the apostles proclaimed to Jew and Gentile.

This abiding word of God s revelation in his Son also was brought to the recipients of Peter s letter, for they themselves had heard the authoritative message of Jesus gospel (see v. 12). In fact, a literal translation of verse 25b is, This word is the gospel that was preached to you. ) ) Doctrinal Considerations in 1:22 25) Verses 22 23) The news media have given the term born again a degree of prominence which it had never attained in earlier times. Yet with all the publicity, countless people still do not understand the term. What does the Bible say about rebirth?) The New Testament teaches that rebirth is an act of God in the heart of man. In the process of birth man is passive, but as soon as he is born again man is active. The effects of his rebirth are evident in respect to his intellect, his emotions, and his moral disposition.

God gives new life to man and man immediately demonstrates this new life in thought, word, and deed.) How do I know that I am born again? Here are three telltale marks. First, if I am born again, I have morally purified myself and with my new heart I strive to obey God s Word. Next, I dedicate my new life to obeying God by loving him and my fellow man. And finally, because of my rebirth, I have innumerable spiritual brothers and sisters.) Verses 24 25) Verses 24 and 25 demonstrate the unity of Scripture (as well as other doctrines). The readers of Peter s epistle received the Old Testament as the Word of God.

When the apostles and their helpers preached the gospel of Jesus to them, they accepted it also as God s Word. For them both the Old Testament and Christ s gospel had equal authority and validity.) ) Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 1:22 25) Verse 22) !�������� from the verb ����� (I purify), this active participle is in the perfect tense to show complete action in the past with lasting significance for the present.) ��� ������� this is an objective genitive . The use of the definite article indicates that this is the truth of God.) ��p ��������� absent from many early and good witnesses, this phrase appears to be a theological expansion introduced by a copyist. ��72��) � [�������] ������� the inclusion or exclusion of the adjective ������� (pure) is difficult to determine. However, scholars favor inclusion on the basis of stronger manuscript evidence.) �������� this is the main verb in verses 22 and 23 and thus receives emphasis. It is the aorist active imperative of ����� (I love). The aorist is ingressive.) Verse 23) � ������ from the verb ������ (I sow), this noun can mean either the act of sowing or the seed that is sown.

The context favors the second meaning.) ������ together with �������� it modifies �����, not ����. If it described ����, it would follow it.) �������� some translators include the phrase �0� �x� �0��� (see v. 25) in the text. It is easier to explain the insertion than the omission. Manuscript evidence supports omission.) Verse 24) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6|AUTODETECT|” �P��� the Textus Receptus and the Majority Text have the reading ������� to agree with the Septuagint wording of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6|AUTODETECT|” Isaiah 40:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 15 2 8 0 0 ������� from ������� (I wither), this verb is an aorist passive.) ������� from ������ (I fall off), the form is aorist active. The aorists are timeless and therefore are translated in the present tense.) Verse 25) ����� although the verb is present, it looks to the future.) �P���������� as an aorist passive neuter singular participle from �P����������� (I proclaim the gospel), the aorist points to past action.) Summary of Chapter 1) After writing the address and greeting, Peter expresses his gratitude to God for the new life God has given us. This new life is an incorruptible inheritance, is kept in heaven for us, and will be revealed fully at the end of time. Although we endure all kinds of trials, we nevertheless are filled with great joy. We know that these trials are given to us so that our faith may be proved to the praise and glory of Jesus Christ. Even though we have not seen Jesus, yet we love him, have faith in him, and rejoice in the gift of our salvation.) The teaching of salvation did not originate recently, for the ancient prophets, guided by God s Spirit, already were searching and trying to understand when Christ would suffer and be crowned with glory.

Even angels long to look into these matters.) With many exhortations, Peter admonishes us to action, self-control, obedience, and holiness. In view of our redemption, Peter exhorts us to live as strangers on this earth. He notes that with his precious blood Christ redeemed us from an empty way of life. And he teaches that God appointed Christ as our mediator before the creation of this world but revealed him in our times.) Peter exhorts us to love one another from a heart that is pure through the truth of God. This truth is the everlasting Word of God that has been preached to us.) ) ) ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” 1 You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, said Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul frequently calls Peter Cephas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.12|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.5|AUTODETECT|” 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ). In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 8 Paul calls him Peter. ) 1 21 2 8 0 0 2 Bastiaan Van Elderen, Simon Peter, ZPEB, vol. 4, p. 733.) 3 Refer to Dietrich M�ller, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 131. Also see Karl Heinrich Rengstorf, TDNT, vol. 1, pp. 424 43.) 4 Consult Uwe Holmer, Der Erste Brief des Petrus, in Die Briefe des Petrus und der Brief des Judas, Wuppertaler Studienbibel (Wuppertal: Brockhaus, 1976), p. 21. Literature on the subject apostle is extensive. I mention only the representative article by Rudolf Schnackenburg, Apostles Before and During Paul s Time, in Apostolic History and the Gospel, ed. W. Ward Gasque and Ralph P.

Martin (Exeter: Paternoster, 1970), pp. 287 303.) 5 Consult Hans Bietenhard, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 690. Also refer to John Brown, Expository Discourses on I Peter, 2 vols. (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), vol. 1, p. 16. Brown comments that the word strangers expresses two ideas: not natives of the country in which they are; not settled residents in that foreign country. ) 6 Refer to E. G. Selwyn, The First Epistle of St. Peter: The Greek Text with Introduction, Notes, and Essays (London: Macmillan, 1946), p. 45.

And see J. N. D. Kelly, A Commentary on the Epistles of Peter and Jude, Thornapple Commentaries series (1969; Grand Rapids: Baker, 1981), p. 3.) 7 Consult C. J. Hemer, The Address of I Peter, ExpT 89 (1978): 239 43.) Kistemaker, S.

J., & Hendriksen, W. (1953-2001). Vol. 16: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Epistles of ) 8 Thayer, pp. 141 42.) 9 With variations, these translations include KJV, NKJV, NASB, RSV, NAB, NEB, NIV, JB, GNB, MLB, and Moffatt.) 10 See, e.g., RV, ASV.) 11 Lothar Coenen writes that the purpose of election is to show in the midst of world history God s sovereign acts, his grace, and the seriousness of his demands. The doctrine of election is thus an indissoluable part of the knowledge of God s holiness, uniqueness, and unconditioned sovereignty. NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 538.) 12 Donald Guthrie observes that none of the New Testament writers sees the need to speculate about such a doctrine. New Testament Theology (Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity, 1981), p. 112.) 13 Refer to D. Edmond Hiebert, First Peter: An Expositional Commentary (Chicago: Moody, 1984), p. 38.) 14 Some translations follow the exact word order of the Greek (KJV, RV, ASV, NKJV).

The NEB has the reading hallowed to his service by the Spirit, and consecrated with the sprinkled blood of Jesus Christ. ) 15 Consult F. J. A. Hort, The First Epistle of St. Peter (London: Macmillan, 1898; Minneapolis: Klock and Klock, 1976), p. 23. Compare Vincent Taylor, Jesus and His Sacrifice (London: Macmillan, 1937), p. 137.

Also see Selwyn, The First Epistle of St. Peter, p. 120; Guthrie, New Testament Theology, p. 474.) 16 Refer to S. Greijdanus, De Brieven van de Apostelen Petrus en Johannes, en de Brief van Judas, Kommentaar op het Nieuwe Testament series (Amsterdam: Van Bottenburg, 1929), p. 33.) 17 Consult Bauer, p. 877, and Thayer, p. 666.) NKJV New King James Version) LXX Septuagint) 18 Ernst Hoffmann, NIDNTT, vol. 2, p. 244.) 19 Robert H. Mounce, A Living Hope: A Commentary on 1 and 2 Peter (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1982), p. 11.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.5|AUTODETECT|” 20 Commenting on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , William Hendriksen remarks that hope is an objective reality, namely, the thing hoped for. Colossians and Philemon, New Testament Commentary series (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1964), p. 50.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 21 Consult A. T. Robertson, A Grammar of the Greek New Testament in the Light of Historical Research (Nashville: Broadman, 1934), p. 785.) 22 Thayer, p. 349.) 23 Charles Bigg, A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Epistles of St. Peter and St. Jude, International Critical Commentary series (1901; Edinburgh: Clark, 1961), p. 101. Guthrie points out the subjective aspect of faith and remarks that I Peter is particularly rich in references to faith. New Testament Theology, p. 600.) 24 Werner Foerster, TDNT, vol. 7, p. 995.) GNB Good News Bible) Moffatt The Bible: A New Translation by James Moffatt) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 25 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.2|AUTODETECT|” James 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 has the imperative consider it pure joy, but that entire context demands the imperative mood.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 26 Kelly, Peter and Jude, p. 53. He calls this interpretation the likeliest & of a verse which contains both syntactical and textual difficulties. ) 27 Refer to Erich Beyreuther, NIDNTT, vol. 2, p. 354.) 28 Bauer, p. 481.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.21|AUTODETECT|” 29 Hiebert, First Peter, p. 56. On the divine necessity of Jesus suffering, see, e.g., ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.44|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.44|AUTODETECT|” 24:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.14|AUTODETECT|” John 3:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 MLB The Modern Language Bible) 30 George A. Turner, Gold, ISBE, vol. 2, p. 520.) 31 Consult John Albert Bengel, Gnomon of the New Testament, ed. Andrew R. Fausset, trans. William Fletcher, 7th ed., 5 vols. (Edinburgh: Clark, 1877), vol. 5, p. 48.) NASB New American Standard Bible) 32 See, e.g., KJV, RV, ASV, NKJV, NIV, GNB.) 33 On this verse Bauer writes, obtain as an outcome of faith the salvation of souls (p. 442). Also see RSV, MLB, NASB, Moffatt.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.19|AUTODETECT|” 34 For instance, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.39|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.21|AUTODETECT|” James 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.20|AUTODETECT|” 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 12 2 8 0 0 35 Heidelberg Catechism, answer 1.) 36 Creath Davis, Joy, EDT, p. 588. Also consult Erich Beyreuther and G�nter Finkenrath, NIDNTT, vol. 2, pp. 356 61.) 37 Consult Robertson, Grammar, p. 1096.) RSV Revised Standard Version) 38 Also see NASB, MLB, and the alternate reading of GNB.) 39 Hiebert discusses the matter at length. See First Peter, pp. 65 66.) 40 Refer to Kelly, Peter and Jude, pp. 60 61. Also see John Calvin, Commentaries on the Catholic Epistles: The First Epistle of Peter, ed. and trans. John Owen (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1948), pp. 39 40.) 41 Consult Alan M. Stibbs, The First Epistle General of Peter, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries series (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1960), p. 82.

And see Greijdanus, De Brieven, p. 56.) 42 Refer to Bengel, Gnomon of the New Testament, vol. 5, p. 49.) 43 Consult Henry Alford, Alford s Greek Testament: An Exegetical and Critical Commentary, 5th ed., 4 vols. (1875; Grand Rapids: Guardian, 1976), vol. 4, pt. 2, p. 338.) 44 Refer to Kelly, Peter and Jude, p. 62.) 45 R. C. H. Lenski, The Interpretation of the Epistles of St. Peter, St. John, and St.

Jude (Columbus: Wartburg, 1945), p. 49. And refer to Stibbs, The First Epistle General of Peter, p. 83.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.12|AUTODETECT|” 46 See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.5|AUTODETECT|” John 20:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Also consult Thayer, p. 484.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 47 Consult Bauer, p. 184.) 48 Consult Philip J. Budd, NIDNTT, vol. 1, p. 515. And see Otto Bauernfeind, TDNT, vol. 4, p. 939.) 49 The argument that the verb be self-controlled in 4:7 and 5:8 lacks an adverb cannot be regarded as substantial proof. Also, the comment that it is unusual for an adverb to follow the verb which it qualifies (Selwyn, The First Epistle of St. Peter, p. 140) does not hold true, because Peter often places the adverb (contrary to the commoner practice) after the word it qualifies (Kelly, Peter and Jude, p. 66).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.8|AUTODETECT|” 50 Compare, for example, these references: children of light 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.6|AUTODETECT|” ), man of peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” ), and the man of lawlessness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9-46.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 51 Here are a few passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9-46.6.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.14-47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.14-47.6.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:14 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.4|AUTODETECT|” James 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.4-62.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.4-62.4.6|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 52 Discussing the holiness of God, Everett F. Harrison asserts that it is no exaggeration to state that this element overshadows all others in the character of the deity. See his article Holiness; Holy, ISBE, vol. 2, p. 725.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.44-3.11.45|AUTODETECT|” 53 In addition to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.11.44-3.11.45|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 11:44 45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , see 19:2; 20:7, 26; 21:8, 15; 22:9, 16, 32.) 1 13 2 8 0 0 54 Consult Bauer, p. 9.) 55 Consult Eduard Lohse, TDNT, vol. 6, p. 780.) 56 Refer to Kenneth S. Wuest, Peter I, vol. 6 of Word Studies in the Greek New Testament, 16 vols. (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1942), p. 41.) 57 Refer to Robert D. Knudsen, Redeemer, Redemption, ZPEB, vol. 5, p. 50. Also see John Murray, Redemption: Accomplished and Applied (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1955), p. 47.) 58 Colin Brown, NIDNTT, vol. 3, p. 200.) 59 Consult Everett F. Harrison, Redeemer, Redemption, EDT, p. 918.) 60 E.g., see KJV, NKJV, RV, ASV, NASB, and MLB.) 61 RSV, NEB, NAB, GNB, NIV, and Moffatt.) 62 Refer to Guthrie, New Testament Theology, p. 78. And Kelly observes that for Peter God s foreknowledge includes His creative will and determination.

Peter and Jude, p. 76.) 63 See especially Kelly, Peter and Jude, p. 75.) 64 Refer to Selwyn, The First Epistle of St. Peter, p. 148.) 65 Calvin, The First Epistle of Peter, p. 52.) 66 Consult Heinrich Baltensweiler, NIDNTT, vol. 3, p. 101.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 67 See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.10|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9-52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9-52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:9 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.22|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.1.7|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Consult Leonhard Goppelt, Der Erste Petrusbrief, Kritisch-Exegetischer Kommentar �ber das Neuen Testament, ed. Ferdinand Hahn, 8th ed. (G�ttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1978), vol. 12/1, p. 130.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 JB Jerusalem Bible) 68 JB follows the Vulgate; also see Phillips. In his commentary on The First Epistle of Peter, Calvin prefers the translation the word of the living God and adds that this reading is less forced (p. 57).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6-23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” 69 Peter quotes the prophecy of Isaiah six times: 1:24 25 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.6-23.40.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 40:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.2.6|AUTODETECT|” 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.28.16|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.28.16|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 28:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.14|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); 2:8 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 8:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.20|AUTODETECT|” a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.20|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 43:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.21|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); 2:9c ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.43.21|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 43:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.9|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); 2:22 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.118.22|AUTODETECT|” . By contrast, he cites the Psalms twice: 2:7 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.118.22|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 118:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.34.12-19.34.16|AUTODETECT|” ; 3:10 12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.34.12-19.34.16|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 34:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.31|AUTODETECT|” ; and Proverbs twice: 4:18 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.31|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 11:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.3.34|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); 5:5 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.3.34|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 3:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” (LXX). Last, he has one quotation from Exodus: 2:9b ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 19:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.2|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); and one from Leviticus: 1:16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.2|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 19:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 70 Consult KJV, ASV, NASB, RSV, NKJV.) 71 Hiebert, First Peter, p. 107.) 72 Bruce M. Metzger, A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, 3d corrected ed. (London and New York: United Bible Societies, 1975), p. 688.) )