Read 1 PETER 1:1–5

Scottish theologian and pastor Sinclair Ferguson said, “Woven into the warp and woof of the New Testament’s exposition of what it means for us to be holy is the great groundwork that the self-existent, thrice holy, triune God has—in Himself, by Himself and for Himself—committed Himself and all three Persons of His being to bringing about the holiness of His own people. This is the Father’s purpose, the Son’s purchase and the Spirit’s ministry.”

Today’s reading again confirms that the entire Trinity is involved in the ongoing work of salvation. First, we as “God’s elect” have been “chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father” (vv. 1–2). He predestined us for salvation, thus to be made holy, and thus to be adopted as His children. “He has given us new birth into a living hope” and an eternal inheritance (vv. 3–4). His merciful choice and plan existed from eternity past, a reassuring truth. Our salvation in no way depends on us, but entirely on our perfect and faithful Father (v. 5).

Second, God’s choice was implemented “through the sanctifying work of the Spirit” (v. 2). The term sanctification refers to God’s ongoing work of making us holy and Christlike. This work is being done by His Spirit. Through faith in Him, we are already counted righteous in Christ, and the Spirit works in our lives to reduce sin and to increase holiness.

Finally, God chose us “to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood” (v. 2). This sprinkling refers to Old Testament sacrifices, an image of atonement and cleansing (see Heb. 9:14). Jesus’ blood has freed us from sin to obedience. We eagerly await the “salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time,” that is, His Second Coming (v. 5).

APPLY THE WORD

Throughout our study, we’ve seen links between the Trinity and the command to praise God, as in verse 3 of our reading today. Praise includes both specific activities such as proclaiming the goodness of God through word or song and a general disposition oriented toward pleasing God in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Praise Him today!

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