Peter again writes to believers all over the known world. He reminds them right off the bat that everything good in their life has come from Jesus and from God. Therefore, we are to possess a growing string of positive qualities: moral excellence > knowledge > self-control > perseverance > godliness > brotherly kindness > love. For in having these qualities we love out the character of Christ.
Peter also seems to know that he is to die soon, for Jesus has brought him this knowledge.
Like Paul, Peter has to warn his readers about false prophets that will rise up, telling the believers false doctrine and leading them astray.
Peter then tells the believers that there is hope despite all this. There has been judgement on the wicked since the days of creation; he mentions angels cast into hell, the flood, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. However, in every situation there has been salvation for the righteous: the obedient angels, Noah and his family, Lot.
There has always been this duality in scripture: blessings for the faithful, destruction for the disobedient. You would think the choice would be easy. Duh, pick the path that leads to blessing. But the Bible shows us, history shows us, the daily news shows us that human nature again and again chooses the path that leads to destruction. It is only by God’s incomprehensible grace that we can choose to follow the path of righteousness.
Peter moves on from this topic to a discussion of Jesus’ return. It hasn’t happened yet, and there are people in Peter’s day that are hassling the believers over it. But God doesn’t count time in the same way as we count time. No one knows when Jesus will return. Well, God does. But He isn’t telling. God is waiting for his children to live righteous lives, and for those among his children who are disobedient to repent and turn from their sin. Again, grace saves you, but you are to live a righteous life. I think we’ve got it. I hope.
Peter’s last instruction is as pertinent today as it was when he wrote it: “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (3:18).
Keep at it, my friends. God be with you.
No comments:
Post a Comment