Bible Study - Resilient Faith (4) - Ready Faith - 1 Peter 3:13-16; 4:1-2 - August 3, 2014

Bible Study – Resilient Faith (4) – Ready Faith – August 3, 2014

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Resilient Faith: Standing Strong in the Midst of Suffering.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Peter 3:13-16; 4:1-2.

Suffering brings opportunities to point others to JESUS.

No one likes to think about suffering and most would not choose to suffer. The Greek word for “suffer” carries the idea of having been affected by something which caused pain, mentally or physically. As used by Peter, it referred to suffering due to righteousness as CHRIST suffered to pay in full the penalty for sin in behalf of all who will place their faith in HIM.

The question many Christians may have “if I had to suffer for being a Christian, would I remain faithful?” Many of us hope we would but we will never know until we face that time in our lives. Peter was writing to encourage Christians in Asia Minor or modern day Turkey that when they faced suffering for being a Christian, how they could be prepared.

When Christians encounter suffering for righteousness, they need to consider the passion of CHRIST. When Christians exemplify CHRIST, it is a witness and testimony to others who may want to know their source of strength. Christians need to be ready to reveal that their source of strength is CHRIST because HE suffered and gave HIS life for them. Christians know that there is more to living than this temporary life upon earth, therefore, they can face suffering with the assurance, that regardless of the outcome, GOD is in charge of their lives and eternal destiny. Let’s explore!

Let’s read 1 Peter 3:12b, 13-14:

12b But the face of the Lord is against those who do what is evil.

13 And (therefore) who will harm you if you are deeply committed to what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear or be disturbed,

Verse 12 b helps us to understand verse 13. Since the LORD is against those who do what is evil, who will harm Christians who are obediently doing the will of GOD? The word “harm” includes injury, oppression, and persecution but also includes “to affect with evil.” GOD provides protection for those obediently serving HIM. When Christians encounter suffering for being obedient to GOD, they are secure. They are secure in the fact that GOD is with them and their eternal destination is Heaven and HE rewards them for being faithful to HIM.

Those who do not know GOD through faith in CHRIST fear death. When those without CHRIST see those with CHRIST face suffering and possible death, they see an attitude and a reflection from their hearts of hope and assurance. Those without CHRIST see that they do not have the security Christians have in CHRIST. The non-Christian does not have the indwelling Holy Spirit Who gives the Christian strength and positive assurance that GOD is in control of their destiny. As the Apostle Paul stated in Philippians 1:21:

21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (KJV)

GOD made us to be protective of our human life. HE has a plan for each of us upon earth. When we become a Christian we belong to HIM and are secure in HIM. We are to obediently follow HIM as we carry out HIS plan and purpose for our lives. When we are obedient to HIM, we are to trust that in whatever circumstance we face, HE is there with us. We are to trust HIM even with our earthly lives. Whether we live or die, it is all for the glory and purpose of GOD.

When Christians have grown and matured Spiritually to that point, then facing times of suffering becomes more understandable. Do Christians believe that? And I agree that many of us have not grown enough Spiritually to have that attitude of the heart. It is not a careless disregard of human life but an assurance of our life continuing when we exit earth.

Let’s consider the attitude of the heart as we read the account of the crucifixion of JESUS in Luke 23:32-43:

32 Two others —criminals—were also led away to be executed with Him. 33 When they arrived at the place called The Skull, they crucified Him there, along with the criminals, one on the right and one on the left. [34 Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.”] And they divided His clothes and cast lots. 35 The people stood watching, and even the leaders kept scoffing: “He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One!” 36 The soldiers also mocked Him. They came offering Him sour wine 37 and said, “If You are the King of the Jews, save Yourself!” 38 An inscription was above Him: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. 39 Then one of the criminals hanging there began to yell insults at Him: “Aren’t You the Messiah? Save Yourself and us!” 40 But the other answered, rebuking him: “Don’t you even fear God, since you are undergoing the same punishment? 41 We are punished justly, because we’re getting back what we deserve for the things we did, but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!” 43 And He said to him, “•I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise.”

The three men were sentenced to death by crucifixion. What was their attitude toward death? We know that one of the men was JESUS, The Only Son of GOD in the flesh, fully human and subject to physical death. The other two men were criminals, also human, and subject to physical and eternal death. Each man revealed the attitude of his heart during suffering.

Our LORD JESUS was the only One of the men Who had the power to come down from the cross if HE chose. If HE had, HE would not have been obedient to GOD’S redemptive plan for the world. Instead of using HIS power to come down from the cross, HE said “Father, forgive them, because they do not know what they are doing.”

One of the criminals yelled insults at JESUS and demanded that JESUS prove Himself by saving Himself from crucifixion and save them. This man only wanted to use JESUS to deliver him from a bad situation. This man said “Aren’t You the Messiah? Save Yourself and us!”

The second criminal had a different attitude. He was facing the same physical death and eternity as the first criminal. He rebuked the first criminal for his callous remarks. Notice the second criminal’s confession, which reflected the attitude of his heart – “But the other (the second criminal) answered, rebuking him (the first criminal): “Don’t you even fear God, since you are undergoing the same punishment? 41 We are punished justly, because we’re getting back what we deserve for the things we did, but this man has done nothing wrong.”

 “Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!”

CHRIST’S response to the second man’s confession and request was – “43 And He said to him, “•I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise.”

JESUS, the sinless Lamb of GOD, suffered and gave HIS life for each person who will place his or her faith in HIM and receive HIM as his or her Savior.

JESUS though HIS obedience to GOD, HIS Father, was a witness to others when HE gave up HIS Spirit as written in Luke 23:44-49:

44 It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three, 45 because the sun’s light failed. The curtain of the sanctuary was split down the middle. 46 And Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into Your hands I entrust My spirit.” Saying this, He breathed His last. 47 When the • centurion saw what happened, he began to glorify God, saying, “This man really was righteous!” 48 All the crowds that had gathered for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, went home, striking their chests. 49 But all who knew Him, including the women who had followed Him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

Suffering even unto death is a witness to the assurance Christians have in CHRIST and eternal life.

Death is a fact of life. JESUS came that those who place their faith in HIM can have eternal life but also to experience the abundant life upon earth as HE stated in John 10:10:

10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Once a person has settled his or her eternal destiny through faith in JESUS, he or she is free to live according to the plan GOD had for him or her to accomplish. Death is a fact but life is also a fact and GOD wants HIS children to live it to the fullest while keeping in mind that obedience has eternal rewards.

The Apostle Paul died, went to heaven and returned to earth. He had a life after death experience as written in 2 Corinthians 12:2-9:

2 I know a man in Christ who was caught up into the third heaven 14 years ago. Whether he was in the body or out of the body, I don’t know, God knows. 3 I know that this man —whether in the body or out of the body I don’t know, God knows— 4 was caught up into paradise. He heard inexpressible words, which a man is not allowed to speak. 5 I will boast about this person, but not about myself, except of my weaknesses. 6 For if I want to boast, I will not be a fool, because I will be telling the truth. But I will spare you, so that no one can credit me with something beyond what he sees in me or hears from me, 7 especially because of the extraordinary revelations. Therefore, so that I would not exalt myself, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to torment me so I would not exalt myself. 8 Concerning this, I pleaded with the Lord three times to take it away from me. 9 But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.”

Paul knew what he had to look forward to. He could have boasted about it but instead he used his experience to obediently serve CHRIST. GOD allowed a “thorn in the flesh” in his life to keep him focused on HIS plan and purpose for Paul.

 Most of us have not had such an experience. But in essence, when CHRIST died upon the cross, all who place their faith in HIM died with HIM. They were buried with CHRIST and GOD raised them from the dead to live eternally with HIM. CHRIST received HIS glorified body at HIS resurrection and those who place their faith in CHRIST will receive their Glorified bodies at the second coming of CHRIST. As we studied in last week’s lesson, when Christians die physically they go immediately to Heaven and will return when CHRIST returns to rapture the church from earth. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)

A Christian’s hope and assurance is in CHRIST, confirmed by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Since Christians have that hope and assurance, they are to honor CHRIST by getting to know HIM and honoring HIM through obedience.

Let’s read 1 Peter 3:15-16:

15 but honor the • Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. 16 However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear, so that when you are accused, those who denounce your Christian life will be put to shame.

When Christians face suffering for being righteous, they are to honor CHRIST by staying focused on their salvation through faith in CHRIST. Staying focused on CHRIST is a reminder to Christians that CHRIST suffered for them and it is a witness to others that their lives are in the hands of CHRIST. Remaining steadfast is a witness to fellow Christians, to others and reflects their hearts.

Christians are to study the Bible and interact with GOD to get to know HIM and be ready to explain why they have hope in CHRIST. Because they know that they know they have eternal life and are eternally secure, they are not to become Spiritually arrogant. Christians are sinners saved by the grace of GOD and the shed blood of CHRIST. No Christian can boast.

Christians are a positive witness when they are in situations due to acts of righteousness. They need to have a clear conscience that they are in the will of GOD and not following their own plan. They must confess any sin in their lives so that their walk with CHRIST and the direction of the Holy Spirit is not compromised.

As Christians, we are to be ready to give a defense or explain why we trust in CHRIST. Can we?

Let’s read 1 Peter 3:17-18, 22: (Transition verses)

17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil. 18 For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring you to God, after being put to death in the fleshly realm but made alive in the spiritual realm.

22 Now that He has gone into heaven, He is at God’s right hand with angels, authorities, and powers subject to Him.

Verses 17-18 and 22 lead into our next scripture and helps us understand “therefore.” GOD has given CHRIST all authority. Christians do not serve a Savior Who is without authority. JESUS has full authority in Heaven, upon earth and the universe.

Let’s read 1 Peter 4:1-2:

1 Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, equip yourselves also with the same resolve —because the one who suffered in the flesh has finished with sin— 2 in order to live the remaining time in the flesh, no longer for human desires, but for God’s will.

CHRIST was sinless and righteous, yet HE suffered in the flesh as a human for all who will place their faith in HIM. Therefore, when Christians suffer they know that CHRIST suffered for them. HE died where they should have died. HIS death was a substitutionarys death for all who will place their faith in HIM. HIS suffering paid the penalty for sin. No human can live righteous enough to be acceptable to GOD for his or her sins, therefore CHRIST died for him or her. Christians owe a debt that cannot be paid, even with their own lives. CHRIST broke the sin barrier for all who place their faith in HIM. Christians are to equip themselves first by yielding their will to CHRIST, studying GOD’S Word, the Bible, and committing to building an intimate, loving, obedient relationship with CHRIST. Through the miracle of rebirth their citizenship is in Heaven, they are GOD’S Sons or Daughters and they have eternal life. Christians must comprehend who they are in CHRIST. CHRIST is a present reality which is confirmed and guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Do you know this truth in your life as a Christian? If not, confess it to our LORD and ask HIM to reveal truth to you as you seek to know HIM personally and intimately. Blessings!!!

WSPA.com, Spartanburg, SC, posted this story on July 30, 2014 and is fitting for our study:

An Upstate (SC) man in West Africa on a work assignment has found himself caught in the middle of the Ebola outbreak that's killed hundreds and sickened many others.

"People are very concerned as they should be," said Dave Crockett in a phone interview from Liberia. "And they're taking face guards - protecting themselves."

Crockett, who lives in Greenville, works for Greer-based group Water of Life, an organization that travels to third world countries to drill water wells. He said even though it's difficult to contract the disease, people there are taking extra precautions. "Liberians are noted for their greetings and their handshakes, which they're restraining from that, and the hugging is cut out."

Roland Bergeron, who founded the organization and who has been to Liberia more than 40 times, is planning another trip there at the end of August. He said he's not afraid because the contaminated water there actually kills more people than Ebola.

"I learned a long time ago that you can't let fear and faith can't exist at the same time," said Roland Bergeron, who plans to head to Liberia at the end of August. "You either let fear control you or you let faith control you."

So far, at least two Americans have caught Ebola, a doctor from Texas and a woman from the Charlotte (NC) area.

 

Bible Study - Resilient Faith (3) - Enduring Faith - 1 Peter 2:13-23 - July 27, 2014

Bible Study – Resilient Faith (3) – Enduring Faith – July 27, 2014

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Resilient Faith: Standing Strong in the Midst of Suffering.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Peter 2:13-23.

Trust GOD in every circumstance. GOD honors faith and faith honors GOD.

Hebrews 11:6

6 Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him.

Knowing GOD and that HE exist is the foundation upon which Christians build faith. JESUS came from heaven to earth to live in the flesh, fully human: 100% human and 100% GOD. HE was born a human and lived a sinless life upon earth and died as a human but resurrected divine.

GOD performed numerous miracles through JESUS to confirm that HE is Who HE and GOD’S Word said HE is, GOD’S only Son. JESUS gave HIS physical life upon the cross. HE died and was buried. HE was physically dead. GOD raised HIM from the physically dead to prove that he had paid, in full, the penalty for sin and to demonstrate HIS power over physical death. GOD has the power over physical death and the power to resurrect the physically dead at the second coming of CHRIST. Christians who have been born-again through the miracle of rebirth through faith in CHRIST and physically died have gone to Heaven. They will follow CHRIST from Heaven and receive their new Glorified bodies at the rapture of the Spiritual church. The Apostle Paul wrote about this in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18:

13 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are • asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus. 15 For we say this to you by a revelation from the Lord: We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming will certainly have no advantage over those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the archangel’s voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.

This is GOD’S redemptive plan and the new covenant HE has made with all who place their faith in JESUS and trust HIM.

Let’s read 1 Peter 2:13-17:

13 Submit to every human authority because of the Lord, whether to the Emperor as the supreme authority 14 or to governors as those sent out by him to punish those who do what is evil and to praise those who do what is good. 15 For it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good. 16 As God’s • slaves, live as free people, but don’t use your freedom as a way to conceal evil. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the Emperor.

Peter was addressing born-again Christians who were or would be facing human authorities in their lives.  Because Christians represent GOD to the world, they are to submit to human authority, because their ultimate authority is GOD and HE is in control. Christians need to be model citizens and not to be lightening rods to attract the wrath of the human authorities. Christians are to be model citizens so they can obediently spread the gospel of CHRIST freely as led by the Holy Spirit. Christians are to be active in government by running for office and most of all by voting.

GOD’S desire is for Christians to carry out the great commission of spreading the Gospel of CHRIST. Christianity was being established in the world. Today, Christians are still establishing Christianity in the world but they are also having to take a stand were Christianity has already been established, America.

The Bible gives Christians guidance when it comes to government in their lives as found in:

Acts 4:13-22: (GOD’S power had been manifested through the Apostles Peter and John by healing the man who had been lame since birth and was begging at the temple gate. They stood before the Sanhedrin.)

13 When they observed the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed and recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 And since they saw the man who had been healed standing with them, they had nothing to say in response. 15 After they had ordered them to leave the • Sanhedrin, they conferred among themselves, 16 saying, “What should we do with these men? For an obvious sign, evident to all who live in Jerusalem, has been done through them, and we cannot deny it! 17 However, so this does not spread any further among the people, let’s threaten them against speaking to anyone in this name again.” 18 So they called for them and ordered them not to preach or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it’s right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide; 20 for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 21 After threatening them further, they released them. They found no way to punish them, because the people were all giving glory to God over what had been done; 22 for this sign of healing had been performed on a man over 40 years old.

Acts 5:12-32 (Peter and John were arrested again and put into jail.)

12 Many signs and wonders were being done among the people through the hands of the apostles. By common consent they would all meet in Solomon’s Colonnade. 13 None of the rest dared to join them, but the people praised them highly. 14 Believers were added to the Lord in increasing numbers —crowds of both men and women. 15 As a result, they would carry the sick out into the streets and lay them on cots and mats so that when Peter came by, at least his shadow might fall on some of them. 16 In addition, a large group came together from the towns surrounding Jerusalem, bringing sick people and those who were tormented by • unclean spirits, and they were all healed. In and Out of Prison 17 Then the high priest took action. He and all his colleagues, those who belonged to the party of the • Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. 18 So they arrested the apostles and put them in the city jail. 19 But an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail during the night, brought them out, and said, 20 “Go and stand in the •temple complex, and tell the people all about this life.” 21 In obedience to this, they entered the temple complex at daybreak and began to teach. The Apostles on Trial Again When the high priest and those who were with him arrived, they convened the • Sanhedrin —the full Senate of the sons of Israel —and sent orders to the jail to have them brought. 22 But when the temple police got there, they did not find them in the jail, so they returned and reported, 23 “We found the jail securely locked, with the guards standing in front of the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside!” 24 As the commander of the temple police and the •chief priests heard these things, they were baffled about them, as to what could come of this. 25 Someone came and reported to them, “Look! The men you put in jail are standing in the temple complex and teaching the people.” 26 Then the commander went with the temple police and brought them in without force, because they were afraid the people might stone them. 27 After they brought them in, they had them stand before the Sanhedrin, and the high priest asked, 28 “Didn’t we strictly order you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to bring this man’s blood on us!” 29 But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom you had murdered by hanging Him on a tree. 31 God exalted this man to His right hand as ruler and Savior, to grant repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

When government clashes with the will and purpose of GOD, Christians are to obey GOD.

The idea is that Christians are to trust GOD completely and trust HIM to guide them through life’s circumstances to glorify HIM. They are to trust HIM with their lives in a hostile environment.

Bible scholars believe that Peter wrote First Peter before physical hostility had escalated toward Christians. Christians were to practice what JESUS spoke about in Matthew 5:41:

41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two.   

As written in verses 15 and 16:

15 For it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good. 16 As God’s • slaves, live as free people, but don’t use your freedom as a way to conceal evil.

Peter emphasized that Christians are have a new Master, GOD. GOD being their Master means they are to conduct their lives in accordance to their freedom in CHRIST by modeling their lives after CHRIST.

Christians have been forgiven from past, present and future sins but they are not to use their freedom as an opportunity to purposely sin. They are still accountable and responsible to GOD. Christians represent CHRIST and GOD to others as they live their lives upon earth through their relationship with CHRIST.

Peter gave Christians four commands in verse 17:

17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the Emperor.

The sentence structure is such that these are ongoing commands meaning to keep on honoring, loving, fearing and showing respect for judicial human authority.  Christians are to do what is good and uphold the laws of the government as long as these laws do not conflict with GOD’S laws and commands.

Let’s read 1 Peter 2:18-20:

Submission of Slaves to Masters

18 Household slaves, submit with all fear to your masters, not only to the good and gentle but also to the cruel. 19 For it brings favor if, mindful of God’s will, someone endures grief from suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is there if you sin and are punished, and you endure it? But when you do what is good and suffer, if you endure it, this brings favor with God.

Peter addressed household slaves who had become Christians. Household slaves were in a slightly different slave category.

It is estimated that approximately one third of the Roman populations were slaves. Household slaves often resided in the house of their masters. Some of these household slaves were tutors, teachers, craftsmen or artisans. They did not have legal standing in society. Some were beaten and treated poorly. Others were treated as members of their master’s household. They were subject to and obligated to their masters even though they were Christians. Slaves were looked upon as tools or objects, rather than humans.  

Some household slaves became Christians, which meant that CHRIST was their Master. How did their new relationship with CHRIST affect their relationship with their earthly masters? They were still household slaves and they were to work for their earthly masters as unto the LORD whether they were good or bad. Their new lives in CHRIST were to be a witness to their masters, even if their masters were cruel. JESUS taught HIS followers to love those who revile you and persecute you. Matthew 5:10-12: (JESUS’ was teaching.)

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Suffering often reveals the heart and character of a person. Today, in most places of the world, we do not have slaves and masters but we do have a similar relationship between the employee and the employer, husband and wife, parent and child or children. Employees have bosses and these bosses can be harsh or fair. Husbands or parents are the heads of their household but they can be cruel or good and gentle. Those with authority over others are to be firm but fair. Christians are to work and function as if they were working or functioning for GOD.

Peter gives us some insight into GOD’S reasoning in our next scripture.

Let’s read 1 Peter 2:21-23:

21 For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in His steps. 22 He did not commit sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth; 23 when He was reviled, He did not revile in return; when He was suffering, He did not threaten but entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly.

Christians should not be surprised when they suffer. Peter wrote that Christians are called to suffer because CHRIST suffered for them. When a person becomes a Christian he or she becomes an enemy of Satan and the world. Christians are in the middle of the battlefield every day – work, home, church, socializing and the list goes on. Christians must keep in mind that GOD, their Master, is greater than the evil which is in the world as stated in 1 John 4:4:

4 You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the One (JESUS) who is in you is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world.

When Christians feel the attack of Satan, as they encounter the circumstances of life, they have the assurance that JESUS Who is in them is greater that Satan and his demons. When Christians sense they are under spiritual warfare they are to claim the blood of CHRIST, resist evil and claim the victory because they belong to GOD. Walk in the victory which has been already won and claim it because you are GOD’S Son or Daughter living in an evil world.  

The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 8:14-17:

14 All those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “• Abba, Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, 17 and if children, also heirs —heirs of God and coheirs with Christ—seeing that we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

No one likes to think about suffering: I know, I don’t and certainly not suffering for being a Christian. Living in America suffering for being a Christian or any religion was not something I considered until the last few years. But our world and America is changing fast. The Bible makes it clear that Christians will suffer. JESUS suffered.

JESUS was sinless, yet GOD made HIM to be sin for us. HE suffered for all who will place their faith in HIM to fulfill the redemptive plan of GOD. JESUS had to fully trust GOD with HIS earthly life which transcended into HIS Glorified life by GOD as revealed by HIS bodily resurrection.

Christians are to be completely obedient to GOD. GOD may deliver them or use their obedience to fulfill HIS plan to reach others through the faithful witness of their lives. GOD knows what HE has prepared for those who love HIM. When compared to what awaits HIS children in eternity and heaven, the temporary sufferings of this world pale in comparison! When we glorify GOD in our suffering it speaks loudly to others and is a powerful witness.

Consider the witness of the Sudanese lady just released from jail. She was facing being beaten and death if she did not denounce her faith in CHRIST and become Muslim.

2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He (GOD) made the One (JESUS) who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Hebrews 4:14-16:

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens —Jesus the Son of God—let us hold fast to the confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tested in every way as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us at the proper time.

Only through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit can Christians stand strong in midst of suffering. Blessings!!!

 

Bible Study - Resilient Faith (2) - Active Faith - 1 Peter 1:14-19, 22-25 - July 20, 2014

Bible Study – Resilient Faith (2) – Active Faith – July 20, 2014

This is lesson (2) in our series entitled “Resilient Faith: Standing Strong in the Midst of Suffering.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Peter 1:14-19, 22-25.

Live a life that is set apart for GOD. That is sanctification. It is not being a recluse but serving as GOD leads you in HIS power and under HIS protection.

Faith in CHRIST is the goal of GOD for every person. The beginning of salvation is when a person takes the step of faith to receive CHRIST as his or her Savior. It is the beginning of the process of strengthening his or her faith in GOD through his or her relationship with CHRIST. It is a process of getting to know GOD and experiencing GOD, not just to know about GOD, as he or she walks with GOD through relationship.

Faith is not static but active. Each day is a new day with new opportunities to obediently serve the living GOD and creator of the universe. Christians can call HIM Father. Now that is amazing, when we read it, but do Christians believe it and live like it? Most of us live defeated lives because we look to our ability and not to GOD’S. It is time that Christians be who they are in CHRIST. Therefore, get ready for action as we continue.  

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:13-16:

13 Therefore, with your minds ready for action, be serious and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.

We had this scripture in last week’s lesson. The mind is ground zero. That is where battles occur and decisions are made. That is why we must yield to the power of the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and bring our minds into unity and harmony with GOD’S will and purpose for us. GOD has to be the power in our lives by setting our hope upon HIM and receiving the grace that only HE provides.

“Therefore” because you, as a born-again Christian, have the assurance of the “living hope”, Peter admonished his readers to:

-         Ready your minds ready for action, - When Christians have the desire to obediently serve GOD, get prepared because GOD will provide the opportunity. Internalize your relationship with GOD through your relationship with CHRIST. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:2 - Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and the perfect will of God.

-         Be serious – Christians will need to be mentally prepared refusing to follow false notions or to be caught up in their own self-esteem or self-interest.

-         And set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. At the appointed time, CHRIST will reign supreme and every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that JESUS IS LORD!!! Stay focused on the hope you have in CHRIST and on the grace GOD gives you as you obediently serve HIM. Why? Because when you decide to obediently serve GOD, Satan will do all he can to trip you up. CHRIST began HIS earthly ministry by being tempted by Satan and so will we.

The Apostle Peter reminds Christians to be Holy because GOD is Holy. Christians are called by GOD to live as GOD’S Sons and Daughters in HIS power and in HIS grace upon earth.

The only book others may read is the Gospel according to you. That is impossible in our strength. It is only possible through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. We must let CHRIST live through us. We all miss the mark and that is why all Christians need GOD’S grace.

Verses 14-16:

14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.

Christians must recognize and acknowledge who they are. As obedient children who desire to serve the LORD, they are to not conform to the desires of their former life without CHRIST but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. (Romans 12:2) In their old life, without CHRIST, they were ignorant about obediently serving GOD. Ignorance is not being stupid. Ignorance has a cure, which is experience and education. An ignorant person simply does not know but the Holy Spirit will enlighten and teach all Christians who seek to be taught.

GOD calls all Christians to be Holy as HE is Holy. Don’t most children want to grow up to be just like their parent? As GOD’S children our desire is to grow up to be just like CHRIST. Notice the word “Be” Holy. Remember 2 Corinthians 5:21:

21 He made the One who did not know sin to be sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

“Be” what GOD has already imputed to you – righteous!!!

As a Christian you are righteous, therefore “be” righteous. Be what you are.

The Apostle Paul stated it well in Ephesians 4:22-24:

22 You took off your former way of life, the old self that is corrupted by deceitful desires; 23 you are being renewed in the spirit of your minds; 24 you put on the new self, the one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.

At the moment of salvation this is what took place in your life through the miracle of the rebirth. In essence, you took off your old life like you would your old unclean stinking clothes and put on your new clean, fresh smelling, and bright new clothes of salvation. Yet, most of us fail to walk in the light of truth which has been given to us.

“Be Holy, because I am Holy” and you are MY child. So be what you are - a chip off the block.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:17-19 and 20-21:

17 And if you address as Father the One who judges impartially based on each one’s work, you are to conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your temporary residence. 18 For you know that you were • redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things like silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. 20 He was chosen before the foundation of the world but was revealed at the end of the times for you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

When a person addresses GOD as Father, that statement either comes from a knowledge base of knowing about GOD or knowing GOD. The heart of the person can discern which is true. Peter used the word “if” to cause his readers to think and ponder, “Do you call GOD Father?”  

When a person considers GOD his or her Father, realize that HE is the One Who judges. HE is the One Who gives rewards to HIS children and judges those who are not HIS children. HE is an impartial judge, therefore, conduct yourself according to that which you know HIS desire is for you. HIS desire is obedience. Obedience comes from being obedient because of your love for HIM and trust in HIM. This in turn builds your faith in HIM through a personal, intimate relationship. Faith builds trust and trust builds obedience. It is important that trust is build with GOD and in GOD through our relationship with CHRIST and not with our selves. It is trust in GOD that is vital. Christians do not have to muster up enough faith in their ability to take action. But they must have faith and trust in GOD such that when they do their part HE will take the action needed to accomplish what needs to be accomplished.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit are GOD’S gifts which are manifested through Christians as they obediently serve HIM in ministry to others. It is GOD’S power and presence which Christians have the opportunity to obediently use as HE directs.   

The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:13:

13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.

GOD will judge every Christians works of obedience to determine his or her rewards of obedience. True Christians will not be judged regarding their salvation.

JESUS told us in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

Yes, there will be rewards for obedience but as a born-again believer your salvation is secure and guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Every Christian must keep in mind that their time upon earth is temporary when compared to eternity and GOD is the final judge. Fear can be due to fear because of HIS position and power or to honor with awe, reverence and respect.  Here it is a little of both. Christians are to realize who GOD is and live accordingly in honor and respect.

Peter encouraged Christians to realize that “Rewards Day” will come, so live obediently according to GOD’S direction and commands.

Verses: 18-19: (Christians are to live Holy because they are!)

18 For you know that you were • redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from the fathers, not with perishable things like silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish.

Being born a Jew, GOD’S chosen, is not enough for a Jew to enter into heaven. Even though life is eternal, being born as a human does not mean you will automatically go to heaven to live with GOD. A person will either spend eternity in Heaven with GOD and CHRIST or in Hell with Satan and his followers.

GOD allowed JESUS to come to earth to willingly give HIS life to redeem those who will place their faith in HIM from eternal death. Some Jews thought that they had a ticket to heaven because they were born a Jew. Peter made it clear that their earthly birth as a Jew was empty and came up short. No person can be redeemed from eternal death based upon his or her physical birth or ancestral heritage or through any human effort or giving valuable materials such as silver or gold. 

Redemption required the “shedding of the precious blood of CHRIST.” The shed blood of the perfect sacrificial lamb covered the sins of the people. The shed blood of the perfect acceptable sacrifice, JESUS, paid in full the judicial sentence GOD placed on mankind for all who will place their faith and trust in CHRIST. As stated before, the shed blood of CHRIST not only paid in full the judicial penalty imposed by GOD because of sin but HIS shed blood also covers eternally those who place their faith in CHRIST throughout their earthly life and carries them into heaven.

Peter stated three motives for Christians to live Holy:

-         Conduct themselves in fear and reverence of GOD knowing that HE will judge their works. (1 Corinthians 3:11-15)

-         Consider that we were slaves to sin and eternal death but our faith in CHRIST redeemed us from eternal death to eternal life.

-         Christians were not redeemed with perishable things such as silver or gold but with the precious shed blood of CHRIST. It cost the life of JESUS to set Christians free from eternal death.

Peter ends verse 19 with “like that of a lamb without defect or blemish” to remind the Jewish Christians of how GOD used the shed blood of animals to protect the first born son from the death angel when the Israelites were freed from Egyptian bondage, confirmed HIS covenant with the Israelites as HIS chosen people and atoned for the sins of the people. The ultimate and final perfect, acceptable sacrifice was JESUS giving HIS life in place of all who place their faith in HIM. The shed blood of animals temporarily substituted for the sins of the people until the final sacrifice of JESUS paid in full and for eternity the penalty for sin for those who place their faith in HIM.

There is power in the shed blood of CHRIST, wonder working power and the gospel song goes. Some in society complain that Christianity is a bloody religion. HIS only Son had to die for all who place their faith in HIM to live eternally as HE intended from the beginning. It is like the sign over the restaurant my wife and I ate in Alaska “Take It or Leave It.” Taking JESUS as your Savior gives you salvation and eternal life but rejecting HIM results in eternal death.

When did GOD have a redemptive plan?

Verses 20-21:

20 He was chosen before the foundation of the world but was revealed at the end of the times for you 21 who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.

GOD chose CHRIST for HIS redemptive plan before the foundation of the world. GOD also chose us before HE created the world as the Apostle Paul recorded in Ephesians 1:4:

4 For He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love.

Redemption and salvation has been made clear through the birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension of CHRIST and the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell every Christian. This was done by GOD so that every Christian’s faith and hope are in GOD through CHRIST. CHRIST was GOD in the flesh. If a person cannot understand and comprehend CHRIST, how can he or she even begin to understand and comprehend GOD?

Hebrews 11:6:

6 Now without faith it is impossible to please God, for the one who draws near to Him must believe that He exists and rewards those who seek Him.
 

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:22-25:

22 By obedience to the truth, having purified yourselves for sincere love of the • brothers, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have been born again —not of perishable seed but of imperishable —through the living and enduring word of God. 24 For All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like a flower of the grass. The grass withers, and the flower falls, 25 but the word of the Lord endures forever. And this is the word that was preached as the gospel to you.

Knowing truth is the hallmark of being a Christian. Truth renews the hearts and minds of Christians as they grow and mature Spiritually through obedient service. As Christians, our love (philo) for our brothers and sisters grows as our faith in CHRIST grows, which in turn leads to a deeper level of love, agape in true Christians.

A Christian’s love is:

-         Sincere - genuine

-         Earnest – fervently an athletic term meaning “striving with all one’s energy”

-         From a pure heart – real love is pure.

-         GOD’S love flows through to others.

-         Christians are conduits because -

Christians have been born anew from an imperishable seed. That imperishable seed is the “divine sperm.” It is GOD’S Spirit and the living and enduring Word of GOD.

“All flesh” refers to people in their natural state and all will perish. Every person needs to receive the imperishable seed of salvation through faith in CHRIST. The people and the nations of the world they form are like grass, they all will perish like the flower of grass. Grass withers and the flower falls off but the Word of GOD endures forever. The Bible has stood the test of time and critical review. It is the living Word of GOD and it is just as relevant today as the day it was written.

The “Word of GOD” refers to the gospel preached. The “living and enduring word of GOD is the Word that was preached” to evangelize those who are Spiritually lost and condemned to eternal death.  

The Apostles, the Jews, Christians and others had the Old Testament scriptures. They could read the many prophesies written over thousands of years. This was and is a reminder to Christians when they face adverse circumstances, they can rely upon the eternal truth of GOD’S Word.  GOD says what HE means and means what HE says. What is the gospel according to you? Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Resilient Faith (1) - Focused Faith - 1 Peter 1:3-9, 13 - July 13, 2014

Bible Study – Resilient Faith (1) – Focused Faith – July 13, 2014

This is lesson one (1) in our series “Resilient Faith: Standing Strong in the Midst of Suffering.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Peter 1:3-9, 13.

As Christians our faith is focused on sure hope which is confirmed by GOD and the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The Apostle Peter was likely in Rome about 62-64 AD when he wrote to Jewish Christians driven out of Jerusalem and scattered throughout Asia Minor and to Christians everywhere. Christians were being persecuted, tortured and killed for their faith in CHRIST which began under the Emperor Nero. During this persecution period, the Apostle Peter was executed.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:1-2: The Apostle Peter’s introduction:

1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ: To the temporary residents dispersed in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, • Asia , and Bithynia, chosen 2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father and set apart by the Spirit for obedience and for sprinkling with the blood of Jesus Christ. May grace and peace be multiplied to you.

The Apostle Peter began with hope as we read “to the temporary residents.” Their relocation was temporary. Dispersion is one way GOD uses Christians to scatter the Gospel of CHRIST to all parts of earth. Having to leave your homeland is never pleasant but Peter gave them hope for a positive outcome because GOD is in control. Their hope was to return to their homeland someday but just as GOD led the Israelites to the Promised Land, Heaven or the eternal Promised Land is every Christian’s final destination.

The foreknowledge of GOD and the power of GOD keep those who are to receive salvation until their moment of salvation. Once the person receives CHRIST as his or her Savior, then GOD calls him or her to minister according to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. The Christian’s hope is in CHRIST.

Humans hope for all sorts of things. We hope our favorite ball team wins. We hope that we will get a certain job, a promotion or higher salary. We hope that we will find the perfect mate for life. We hope to purchase a certain material thing for ourselves and our hopes go on. These hopes are dependent upon many factors, some we can control but many we cannot control.

There is one sure factor each person can control and that is choosing CHRIST as his or her Savior. When we choose CHRIST as our Savior, we receive the free gift of eternal life, born-again in our spirit to become a Son or Daughter of GOD through the miracle of rebirth. GOD gives to every Christian the indwelling Holy Spirit Who assures, confirms and guarantees our complete redemption and full salvation the instant we exit our human bodies in physical death.

The resurrection of JESUS is proof of the resurrection of every Christian. JESUS Himself verbalized this while HE was upon earth in John 11:22: (JESUS was speaking to Martha regarding the death of Lazarus.)

25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

Each person must answer the question, “Do you believe this?” Do you?

Placing your faith in CHRIST because HE is the “resurrection and life” and HE paid in full the judicial penalty for sin that GOD required makes a person a Christian. The shed blood of CHRIST sustains every Christian throughout their lives because of GOD’S gift of grace. Christians are to confess their sins to maintain their fellowship and intimate relationship with GOD.

The hope of Christians is confirmed and guaranteed by GOD.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:3-4:

A Living Hope

3 Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.

GOD’S gift of redemption and eternal life is something mankind cannot achieve. The single source for redemption from sin is CHRIST, GOD’S only Son. GOD did this because of HIS great mercy and HIS great love for mankind. CHRIST gave HIS life to fulfill the redemptive plan of GOD, HIS Father because of HIS love for GOD and mankind. The resurrection of CHRIST by GOD gives Christians “living hope” through the miracle of rebirth. A Christian does not have to die physically to receive the gift of rebirth, thus rebirth is a “living hope” confirmed by CHRIST. A person’s faith in CHRIST results in an inheritance that is:

-         Imperishable – not subject to deterioration or decay.

-         Uncorrupted – not blemished by moral or spiritual filth, unpolluted.

-         Unfading – not prone to wither, always vivid and vital.

-         Kept in Heaven for each person who places his or her faith in CHRIST.

-         A Christian’s inheritance will never grow old, never wear out or diminish in value. 

The Apostle Peter confirms the eternal nature of a person placing his or her faith in CHRIST. But it is more than words, it is guaranteed, confirmed and assured by the resurrection of CHRIST, GOD and the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The word “kept” is a military term which carries the idea of being secure and protected. The Christian’s inheritance is in GOD’S treasury and protected by GOD.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:5-7:

5 You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 You rejoice in this, though now for a short time you have had to struggle in various trials 7 so that the genuineness of your faith—more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Christians and their inheritance are protected by GOD’S power. Salvation is ground zero upon which Christians build their relationship with GOD through their relationship with CHRIST. GOD’S plan is for Christians to grow and mature Spiritually as they obediently serve HIM. As Christians grow and mature Spiritually, they are in the process of being saved through the process of sanctification. Christians are fully redeemed and saved from eternal death when they exit their earthly body in physical death and behold CHRIST in Heaven. I believe this transition is seamless.

Christians are redeemed and bound for Heaven the instant they receive CHRIST as their Savior. Once a person receives CHRIST as his or her Savior the sanctification process begins, which is the renewing of the mind, comprehension and understanding of the will of GOD, building trust in GOD, understanding GOD and obediently serving GOD through an intimate relationship. It is often a battle between the flesh and the Spirit but in the process, Christians get to know GOD and not just know about GOD. GOD becomes a reality.  

As Christians live upon earth, they encounter trials. Trials perfect their faith by revealing flaws. When Christians confess their flaws, false notions and seek GOD’S help in dealing with them, it produces a firm faith and trust in CHRIST and GOD. Trials build Spiritual muscles of confidence and trust in GOD and create a firm foundation built upon the solid rock of CHRIST. Storms and heavy rains are sure to come in life and those who have built a solid Spiritual foundation will survive. This, in turn, produces Christians who are more likely to take steps of faith, as HE directs, which results in eternal rewards more precious than pure gold.

A Christian’s earth time is short compared to eternity. Most parents desire for their child or children to reach the full potential they know they are capable of achieving. GOD’S desire is for HIS children to reach their full Spiritual potential that HE knows they are capable of achieving. HE made us and HE knows what we are capable of, if we will only trust HIM and HIS leadership. But Christians must trust HIM and relinquish their will to HIM: Easy to say but difficult to do because we want to be in control.

The perfecting of a Christian’s faith has an important purpose as the Apostle Peter stated in verse 7 – “so that the genuineness of your faith—more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

Most humans value gold and feel secure when they have pure gold that belongs to them. To improve the value of gold it must be refined. The impurities must be rendered from the gold under intense heat. These impurities or dross must be removed as they reach the surface. When the heat is as intense as it can get and no impurities float to the top of the melting pot, the gold in pure.

One thing that is certain, once we exit earth in physical death, we leave all of our earthly possessions behind. At physical death, what is more important, the physical gold we leave behind or our treasure of pure faith which is kept in heaven for us? Faith in GOD through CHRIST is the key and sustains all Christians into eternity.

Peter had walked with CHRIST and he knew the value of having a genuine, solid faith built on nothing less than JESUS CHRIST and HIS righteousness. When Christians get to the end of their lives what is important? James, the brother of CHRIST, stated in James 1:12:

12 A man who endures trials is blessed, because when he passes the test he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.

We also read in Job 23:10:

10 Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me, I will emerge as pure gold.

Genuine faith is more valuable than pure gold because it confirms the reality of GOD in our lives “in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” There will be a day when, as written in Philippians 2:8-11:

8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death— even to death on a cross. 9 For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow— of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth— 11 and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Let’s read 1Peter 1:8-9, 13:

8 You love Him, though you have not seen Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

The Christians to whom the Apostle Peter was writing had to trust the eyewitness accounts and testimony of the Apostles and Disciples confirmed by the scriptures that JESUS was and is who HE claimed to be. Christians, since the ascension of JESUS into Heaven with the exception of the Apostle Paul, have had to trust in the witness of Christians, GOD’S Word, the Bible, and the indwelling Holy Spirit to the authenticity of CHRIST and HIS resurrection.

I know, I tried to figure Christianity out intellectually but there was no way. When I finally took a step of faith, it was CHRIST in me and HIS power that sustained me. I received a power and knowing that I had never experienced before. It was the beginning of an awesome journey of getting to know CHRIST and GOD through my relationship with CHRIST. It has been a journey of false notions and ideology perking up and having to face them and deal with them with the help of the Holy Spirit. Building trust is never easy but it is comforting and rewarding as we grow Spiritually in our relationship with CHRIST. It is all about being completely honest with CHRIST and GOD about our inner questions and trust regarding HIM. Seek and you will find.

Verse 8, states three ways a true Christian responds to CHRIST:

-         You love HIM.

-         You believe in HIM.

-         You rejoice in HIM with inexpressible and glorious joy. Those who have experienced salvation cannot put into words the magnificent overwhelming change when salvation is experienced. One caution, not everyone has this experience. For some salvation is like the dawning of a new day. The sun rises but when can the person say that the day has dawned? Salvation can be the same way. Those who know that they have asked CHRIST to forgive them for their sins and for HIM to come into their lives, CHRIST entered into their lives. It is CHRIST in you that makes you a Christian.

-         Why do you rejoice in HIM with inexpressible and glorious joy? - Because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. Salvation. What is the goal of your faith? Faith in CHRIST is the goal of GOD for every person who has or will ever live. When a person receives CHRIST as his/her Savior that goal is achieved but only fully realized at his or her physical death. At the instant of salvation each Christian receives eternal life through his/her faith in CHRIST and the miracle of rebirth into GOD’S family. But GOD allows them to remain upon earth to grow and mature Spiritually and to carry out HIS plan and purpose which HE has called them to, provided they are willing.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:10-12:

10 Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace that would come to you searched and carefully investigated. 11 They inquired into what time or what circumstances the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating when He testified in advance to the messianic sufferings and the glories that would follow. 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you (Christians). These things have now been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Angels desire to look into these things.

The prophets who were inspired by the Holy Spirit to record prophesies regarding the coming and mission of the Messiah, longed to witness what they were led to write about. But such a fulfillment of prophesies revealed to them were not for that moment in time but for the time that Christians were to experience during and after the coming of the promised Messiah.

Matthew 13:16-17: (JESUS was speaking to HIS disciples.)

16 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. 17 For truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.

The angels long to experience what Christian’s experience. Have you experienced the joy of salvation? If not, now is that moment for you to ask CHRIST to forgive you for your sins and believing that HE died for your sins, ask HIM to come into your life. If you did, then thank HIM for coming into your life and ask HIM to help you to become all that only HE knows what you are capable of becoming as a born-again Christian.

Let’s read 1 Peter 1:13-16: A Call to Holy Living

13 Therefore, with your minds ready for action, be serious and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the desires of your former ignorance. 15 But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; 16 for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.

“Therefore” because you, as a born-again Christian, have the assurance of the “living hope”, Peter admonished his readers to:

-         Ready your minds ready for action, - When Christians have the desire to obediently serve GOD, get prepared because GOD will provide the opportunity. Internalize your relationship with GOD through your relationship with CHRIST. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:2 - Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

-         be serious – Christians will need to be mentally prepared refusing to follow false notions or to be caught up in their own self-esteem.

-         and set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Stay focused on the hope you have in CHRIST and on the grace GOD gives you as you obediently serve HIM. Why? Because when you decide to obediently serve GOD, Satan will do all he can to trip you up. CHRIST began HIS earthly ministry by being tempted by Satan and so will we.

The Apostle Peter calls Christians to be Holy because GOD is Holy. The only book others may read is the Gospel according to you. That is tough and only the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit can help Christians to achieve Holy living. We must let CHRIST live through us. We all miss the mark and that is why all Christians need GOD’S grace. Blessings!!!