Read 2 Peter 1:3–11

Most of us long to live a life of significance. We may not be well known or famous by human standards, but we want to know our life has counted before God. In today’s reading Peter helps us do just that.

First, we need to keep in mind that the Christian life is not about earning our standing with God or our significance before Him. We can rejoice in the truth that God has “given us everything we need for a godly life” (v. 3). God has equipped us to be faithful to His calling. One of things He has given us are His “very great and precious promises” (v. 4). All through the Bible, a key dynamic of faithfulness is believing and living in light of the truth of God’s promises. Abram uprooted his life and traveled to an unknown land based on God’s promise (Gen. 12:1–3). David believed one of his descendants would have a throne that would be established forever (2 Sam. 7:13). Today, we believe in and wait for the return of the Lord Jesus. Living in light of that hope is one of the gifts God has given us to live a godly life.

Out of the abundance of God’s grace and provision for us, we are called to grow in holiness and love. Peter calls us to “make every effort” (v. 5) to grow in virtues: faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love (vv. 6–7). As we grow in these virtues, “they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive” in faith (v. 8). The important thing is to keep our eyes on the goal, which is to “receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (v. 11). God has given us everything we need to live an effective and productive life.

Go Deeper

What do you think a life that counts for God looks like? How does Peter’s letter shape your answer?

Pray with Us

Jesus, You call us to be faithful to You, not successful by worldly standards. Forgive us for seeking human approval. Please give us the courage and perseverance to live for You.

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life.2 Peter 1:3

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Read 2 Peter 1:1–2

While the Bible does not record how the apostle Peter died, early church tradition says he was martyred in Rome. It is said he requested to be crucified upside-down because he was not worthy to die in the same way as Jesus. This church tradition aligns well with Jesus’ prediction about Peter’s death (John 21:18–19).

Near the end of his life, Peter wrote the letter we now call 2 Peter. It seems his audience was the same as that for his first letter: a group of churches in Asia Minor (2 Pet. 3:1). Peter’s opening is typical for a New Testament letter, yet it contains important truths. Peter asserts his authority as an “apostle of Jesus Christ” (v. 1). This is important in a letter where he will rebuke his audience for embracing some false teaching. He also affirms that his audience has “received a faith as precious as ours” (v. 1). Most of the believers he was writing to would have been second generation Christians. They might have felt a bit inferior, or at least less blessed because they did not get to see Jesus in the flesh. Peter assures them that their faith was just as precious as his own. The same is true today. Some people may think that they are less valuable as a Christian because they came to faith later in life. That is not the case! All believers are sons or daughters of God (1 John 3:1–2).

Peter also affirms that Jesus is God, “to those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ” (v. 1). He holds a high view of Jesus! He also knows that true knowledge of Jesus brings “grace and peace…in abundance” (v. 2).

Go Deeper

When did you come to faith in Christ? Share your story with someone today. And if you do not know Jesus as your Savior, we invite you to learn more. Go to moodybible.org/knowing-christ.

Pray with Us

Father, thank You for sending Jesus Christ to die for our sins. We praise You for Your plan of salvation that stretches from creation to the cross. You are worthy of our worship!

Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.2 Peter 1:2

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Read 1 Peter 5:8–14

In the preface to The Screwtape Letters, C. S. Lewis wrote, “There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence, and the other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them.” The New Testament models exactly the right balance in how to think about Satan and demonic forces. It acknowledges their existence and warns us to be on guard, but clearly highlights the Lord’s sovereignty.

Peter closes his letter warning the church to “be alert and of sober mind” (v. 8). Charles Spurgeon put it this way: “When we think we have no occasion for the sword, we begin to unbuckle it from our side. We strip off our armor piece by piece, and then it is that we become most exposed to the attacks of our enemies.” Diligence is required in the Christian life.

There are hostile spiritual forces at work in the world. The devil is not idle, but “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (v. 8). Satan cannot be everywhere at once. But he does seek to thwart God’s plan. According to Scripture, the most common way he seeks to do this is through trapping or deceiving God’s people (1 Tim. 3:7; 2 Tim. 2:26).

We are not called to flee or to fear the devil. Instead, Peter challenges us to “resist him” (v. 9). We do this by “standing firm in the faith” (v. 9). We can be comforted by knowing that we are not the only ones who are suffering for our faith. We are part of a whole “family of believers” around the world (v. 9). We are in good company. But even more importantly, we know that one day God Himself “will restore you and make you strong” (v. 10).

Go Deeper

What does Lewis mean when he said we either overestimate or underestimate the work of the devil? According to Peter, how do we guard ourselves?

Pray with Us

Precious Lord, You have given us everything we need to resist the devil. Thank You for the whole armor of God (Eph. 6:14–17). May we always keep it on.

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.James 4:7

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Read 1 Peter 5:5–7

Many believers today live under persecution. According to the Open Doors World Watch List, more than 380 million Christians are “subject to high levels of persecution and discrimination.” The early church understood well what it was like to live under a hostile government and culture.

As Peter approaches the close of his letter, he focuses on what was most important for the church to faithfully endure hardship. His answer may surprise you. He does not encourage organizing to resist hostile government authorities or publicly defending oneself against detractors. Instead, he warns against pride and anxiety (vv. 5–7). Pride and anxiety often go hand in hand. Pride demonstrates trust in yourself rather than God. One cause of anxiety is a belief that you must take care of yourself.

Instead, Peter challenges the church to “clothe yourselves with humility toward one another” (v. 5). Humility is a mark of spiritual maturity. While we tend to celebrate and lift up the gifted and the exceptional, God loves to exalt the humble (v. 6). This accords with God’s message to Israel: “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word” (Isa. 66:2).

There are a lot of reasons to be anxious, especially true when you could be jailed or put on trial for your faith. Peter does not say we don’t have any reason for anxiety. Instead, he calls us to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (v. 7). The verb here is quite vivid—we are to hurl our fears upon the Lord. We can do so because we can trust Him. Paul echoes this advice: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Phil. 4:6).

Go Deeper

How do pride and anxiety sometimes connect? What antidote do Peter and Paul suggest for when we feel anxious?

Pray with Us

We are afraid of so many things, but we trust in You, God. When fear grips us, please bring to mind your Word: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.1 Peter 5:6

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Read 1 Peter 5:1–4

It is an interesting exercise to look at job postings for pastors. Often you see churches that are looking for a pastor who is “an influencer,” “a captivating speaker,” or “a dynamic leader.” We highlight the leadership values of our culture.

I think Peter would have some cautionary advice for us! In today’s reading, Peter addresses elders in the church. “Elders” here does not refer to age but position. Elders are church leaders. Peter addresses two central questions: Why should they serve? and How should they serve? But first, he gives a helpful perspective on the role of elder. Peter challenges elders to “be shepherds of God’s flock” (v. 2). They are to see their role as nurturing, caring, and protective. They are to model the caring leadership God demonstrated toward His people (Ps. 23; John 10:1–18). They are also to remember that it is “God’s flock” they oversee. They will one day give an account to Him.

So, why should someone take up this responsibility? They should not do it out of compulsion or for money (v. 2). Following Jesus’ teaching, many churches compensated their leaders (Matt. 10:10). Elders also oversaw the money collected for the poor (Acts 5:1–5; 2 Cor. 8:20). This meant there were opportunities to abuse their role for financial gain. Peter warns against this.

Elders were not to be domineering over those entrusted to their care (v. 3). Instead, they were to lead through example (v. 3; see also Mark 10:42– 45). Paul modeled this: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). Their goal should be “the crown of glory that will never fade away” (v. 4). They are to have an eternal perspective on their work.

Go Deeper

How does the role of elder or pastor function in your church? What values have some placed on those roles that stray from the Bible’s instruction?

Pray with Us

Loving Father, thank You for being the Good Shepherd, and establishing earthly shepherds who care for us. Please help us be an encouragement to our pastors as they nurture us.

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them.1 Peter 5:2

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Read 1 Peter 4:12–19

Psychologists and medical professionals have long talked about the fight or flight response that people typically have when faced with a threatening situation. Our natural tendency is to either prepare for battle or run away.

Peter’s audience was going through a stressful and threatening time. It was so intense that Peter calls it a “fiery ordeal” (v. 12). While we do not know all the specifics of the situation, believers were suffering for their faith in Christ (v. 16). Peter’s advice to these troubled believers was not to run away and hide. He also did not counsel them to fight back in word or deed. Instead, they should rejoice (v. 13)! The reason is that in their suffering they “participate in the sufferings of Christ” (v. 13).

The same is true for us today. If we are publicly shamed or humiliated for our faith in Christ, it helps us identify more closely with our Savior. Our suffering is also not the end of the story. God will one day vindicate His children. Peter goes on to encourage the church that they will be “overjoyed when his glory is revealed” (v. 13).

Now, it is possible to suffer for reasons that have nothing to do with our faith in Christ. Sometimes it may be tempting to interpret any opposition as persecution. But the reality is that sometimes it is just our own bad behavior that got us into that situation. Peter knew that all too well. He warned his audience, “If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler” (v. 15). In those situations, we need to repent.

Go Deeper

Have you experienced opposition when you took a stand for Jesus? How are we to respond when attacked for our faith? Know that we can trust God to make all things right in His perfect timing.

Pray with Us

Dear Lord, we praise You for Your plan of salvation! We are full of gratitude that, though we suffer on earth, it is not the end of the story. One day, we will be with You forever.

If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed.1 Peter 4:14

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Read 1 Peter 4:7–11

Many people throughout history have tried to predict when Christ will return. As a young child, I remember some adults getting worked up over a book titled 88 Reasons Why the Rapture Will Be in 1988. However, Scripture is clear that we cannot know the day or the hour of Christ’s return (Matt. 24:36). Since we don’t know when, we are called to be prepared for His arrival at any time (Matt. 24:42).

What does being prepared look like? Peter addresses that question directly. Believers are to “be alert and of sober mind” (v. 7). The word “alert” means to be sensible or keep one’s head. In other places in the New Testament, it simply means to be sane (Mark 5:15; 2 Cor. 5:13). We are to think clearly in order to pray effectively (v. 7). Most importantly, Peter counsels believers to “love each other deeply” (v. 8). When you really love another person, it is easier to overlook their faults and believe the best about them (v. 8).

One way we can show love is through hospitality (v. 9). We receive people into our homes, make them feel welcome, and meet their needs. This is to be done “without grumbling” (v. 9). We are also to use the spiritual gifts God has given us (v. 10). Peter does not list all the spiritual gifts but highlights two main categories: speaking and serving (v. 11). We are to use these gifts not for our own benefit or advancement, but “to serve others” (v. 10). We are to be faithful stewards of the talents and resources that the Lord has entrusted to us (v. 10). This is a vital way we can show love to our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Go Deeper

Has God gifted you with serving or speaking? How are you using those gifts? Or, how can you begin? It is part of living in a way that brings praise to God (v. 11).

Pray with Us

God, will You please show us what gifts You have given us, and how we can use them to love one another? We want to be good stewards of all You have given us.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.1 Peter 4:8

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Read 1 Peter 4:1–6

When my children were young, an older mentor counseled me, “Don’t pray that your children will be exempt from suffering. We live in a fallen world and suffering is part of our existence. Instead, pray that they learn to interpret their suffering well and have the right perspective.”

That is essentially Peter’s advice in today’s passage. He counsels believers, “Arm yourselves” (v. 1) Instead of being armed with a sword or chariot, we are to adapt the right “attitude” or perspective (v. 1). Our perspective should be like that of Jesus, who suffered innocently, but through His suffering broke the power of sin (v. 1). If believers suffer physically, they are “done with sin” (v. 1).

This does not mean we won’t sin again. Rather, if we choose to remain faithful to Christ and suffer for it, we will make a decisive break with sin (v. 1).

In Peter’s time, suffering Christians could look back on their past life and remember how they used to live like the Gentiles. Idol worship often involved excessive drinking and other types of immorality (v. 3). The Lord changed their lives, and their former companions noticed that they were not who they used to be (v. 4). When we come to Christ, our perspective changes. We know that one day we will “give an account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead” (v. 5).

Peter’s final point has been confusing to many readers (v. 6). He is not talking about giving a second chance after death for those who rejected Christ. That would go against clear teaching in Scripture (Heb. 9:27). Rather, he is talking about Christians who had the gospel preached to them in their lifetime but have since died. While they experienced physical death, they are alive in spirit and will be resurrected when Christ returns.

Go Deeper

What is your perspective on suffering? Does this message from Peter confirm or challenge your ideas?

Pray with Us

King Jesus, before we accepted Your gift of salvation, our lives looked different. Thank You for saving us from the grip of sin. Help us remain faithful to You.

Since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude.1 Peter 4:1

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Read 1 Peter 3:13–22

One of the courses I teach for Moody Theological Seminary is on Hebrew grammar. At the beginning of the semester, I try to give students the right expectations. I warn them that it will require hundreds and hundreds of hours of focused study. There will be times when they feel like giving up. But the work will be worth it!

In today’s reading, Peter gets to the heart of his message. He says believers should expect suffering for their commitment to Christ. Peter gives five guidelines on how to handle suffering. First, we are to “revere Christ as Lord” (v. 15). We should not fear authorities or public shame regarding our faith. Instead, we should honor and fear Jesus.

Second, we are to embody hope in such a powerful way that it serves as a witness to the world. “Always be prepared to give an answer…for the hope that you have” (v. 15). Third, our answer should be given in the right way. Tone matters. We should respond “with gentleness and respect” (v. 15). This is true even if others “speak maliciously” (v. 16). Our witness is not just what words we say, but how we say them. We are to embody the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22).

Fourth, when we suffer unjustly, we are in good company. Our suffering for the sake of the gospel helps us to more closely identify with Jesus (v. 18). Finally, we need to remember the hope we have. Jesus not only suffered, but He was also vindicated. After His crucifixion, He proclaimed victory over sin and death to the fallen angels from the time of the Flood (v. 19, cf. Gen. 6:1–8). Because of Jesus, we also will be saved, as symbolized in our baptism (v. 21). Any suffering we experience for the sake of the gospel will be worth it!

Go Deeper

What warning does Peter give in this passage? What encouragement comes along with it?

Pray with Us

Father God, Peter reminds us that no matter what hardships we endure for the gospel, it is worth it. When things become challenging, help us persevere in our faith.

Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.1 Peter 3:18

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Read 1 Peter 3:1–7

We are to live like Jesus, says Peter, so unbelievers will watch our behavior and worship God. In chapter 2, Peter said believers should “live such good lives among the pagans that…they may see your good deeds and glorify God” (v. 12). Peter had explained how this should be demonstrated in their relationship with governing authorities and between believing slaves and their unbelieving owners. In chapter 3, he turns his focus to marriage, specifically to a wife with an unbelieving husband or a husband with an unbelieving wife.

Probably the most surprising aspect of Peter’s message is that he addressed the wives at all. In the culture of that day, a wife would adopt the religion of their husband. Peter here assumes she has not. The question then is how these women should relate to their unbelieving husbands. Peter says they should practice the Christian virtue of submission (v. 1) to win their spouse over through the “purity and reverence of your lives” (v. 2).

Peter also cautions against flaunting wealth or status through clothing (v. 3). This critique would apply mainly to upper class women who could afford more than simple clothing. Instead, they were to showcase the “unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit” (v. 4). As with all believers, they were to be calm and peaceful, not quarrelsome or restless (1 Tim. 2:2; Matt. 5:5; Isa. 66:2). Sarah is held up as an example (v. 6).

Husbands were to treat their wives with respect and consideration (v. 7). In a culture where it would have been easy for a husband to intimidate or abuse his wife because of social and physical advantages, Peter warns against it. Abusing one’s spouse not only goes against Christian ethics but will “hinder your prayers” (v. 7). If you want a close relationship with God, you must cherish your spouse.

Go Deeper

What part of Peter’s advice to men and to women do you think is particularly needed by the modern-day Christian?

Pray with Us

Lord, it is often easy to forget that our actions and behaviors toward the ones we are closest to can be a light for You. May we treat each other with purity and reverence, respect and consideration.

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment.1 Peter 3:3

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Read 1 Peter 2:18–25

Slavery was common in the ancient world. Scholars estimate that at the time of Peter’s writing, about 15 to 20 percent of all people in the Roman Empire were slaves. Slaves served in a variety of roles, including as laborers, household managers, doctors, musicians, and artisans. Many who first responded to the message of the gospel were from this class in society.

Peter’s words can feel harsh to modern ears, but we should keep a couple of things in mind. First, it is significant that the New Testament authors even addressed slaves. Most writers in the ancient world ignored their existence. Yet, Peter and Paul address slaves as full disciples of Jesus. Second, while the early church did not address the institution of slavery—nor was it in a position to do so—it did clearly address the status of slaves within the church. There was to be no social distinctions between members; they were brothers and sisters in Christ (Gal. 3:28; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 3:11).

In verse 18, Peter states that slaves should submit themselves to their masters, not because the masters deserved it, but out of “reverent fear of God” (v. 18). What about unjust masters? Even in that situation, they were to obey: “It is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God” (v. 19). They should be aware that God sees them and commends them.

Those who suffer unjustly are in good company. That experience allows them to identify a bit more with Jesus. Even though He was completely innocent, He was made to suffer (v. 21). Peter’s call here is for all Christians to follow the example of Jesus (v. 21). No matter how painful our experience, we are not lost to God but are known and loved (v. 25).

Go Deeper

What does it look like for us to follow Jesus, even when we receive unfair or unjust treatment?

Pray with Us

Merciful God, You know what it is to suffer unjustly. When we are experiencing injustice, we look to Your example and remember that these circumstances are temporary. Our eternal home is in heaven!

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.1 Peter 2:21

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Read 1 Peter 2:13–17

When Peter was writing his letter, there was a significant debate within Judaism about the best way to relate to Rome. Many in Israel were clamoring for a rebellion, which would ultimately result in the Jewish revolt and destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Should followers of Jesus take a similar stance toward Rome?

Peter takes a very different approach. He urges believers to “Submit yourselves…to every human authority” (v. 13). The phrase translated by the NIV as “every human authority” is more literally “every human creation.” Peter’s point is that believers should not be striving for positions of power and authority over other people. Rather they should pursue the good of others (Eph. 5:21). This includes even the emperor and governor (vv. 13–14). At the time, the emperor was likely Nero, hardly a model of virtue.

But there is an important qualification: They are to submit “for the Lord’s sake” (v. 13). In the New Testament, believers did take a stand against the governing authorities when the gospel was at stake (e.g., Acts 4:18–20; 5:27–29). They would not be hindered in sharing the gospel, even if it meant suffering the consequences of disobeying the government. But when the gospel was not at stake, believers were to submit to those in authority. God ordained the government to uphold justice (v. 14), a common grace we can be thankful for.

The freedom we have in Christ is not freedom from human authorities, but freedom from sin in service to God (v. 16). Believers should be known for their respect and kindness to all people (v. 17). In our relationship with the government, it is important to “fear God” first and, in the context of our reverence for God, “honor the emperor” (v. 17). We should live in a way that does not hinder our ability to live out the mission that the Lord Jesus has given us.

Go Deeper

How should believers respond to those placed in authority? What reasons does Peter give for this?

Pray with Us

Holy Father, we know You are the ultimate authority. As we strive to obey You, give us wisdom to submit to our earthly authorities and pursue the good of others. You are over all things.

Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority.1 Peter 2:13

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1 Peter 2:11–12

Not of This World

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Read 1 Peter 2:11–12

Jesus warned His followers that the world would not be a welcoming place. “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:19). In his letters, Peter gives a similar warning: Followers of Jesus will be “foreigners and exiles” (v. 11).

Peter addresses his audience in two important ways. First, he calls them “dear friends,” this is more literally, “beloved” (v. 11). They are like family. He then calls them “foreigners and exiles” (v. 11). These believers were to think of themselves as immigrants, people who do not reside in their native country. Now, it is likely that most of Peter’s audience was composed of Jewish Christians, who were literally exiles from the land of Israel. But Peter is making a deeper point. They were not to live as if their current city or country was where they really belonged. They have an “inheritance…kept in heaven for you” (1:4).

This reminder that we belong fully to Jesus and His kingdom leads us to live differently within this world. Just as Peter’s readers were not to get their standards of behavior from the nations around them, we are to live as citizens of heaven. Our primary allegiance is not to this world, but the one to come.

We are called to live holy lives, not so we will stay out of trouble in fear. Rather, we should live well so that the world around us “may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (v. 12). Our obedience to the Lord Jesus is missional. People should be able to look at the church, see our good deeds, and be pointed to Christ.

Go Deeper

What does it look like to live a holy life in today’s culture? How does the way you live become missional?

Pray with Us

Living as citizens of heaven does not always feel easy, Father, but we desire to reflect You in every action. Give us the strength to do right, so people will glorify You.

I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.1 Peter 2:11

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Read 1 Peter 2:4–10

When my children were young, their grandmother bought them a playset. The set showed up on pallets stacked with seemingly random pieces of lumber and plastic. It could only function as intended if each piece was assembled into the correct place. Each board, screw, or plastic panel had a purpose.

God is also involved in a building project. Instead of lumber, the Lord uses stones as His material. As we come to Jesus, He makes us into “living stones” (v. 5). That is, He puts new life into us. The purpose is to build us up into a “spiritual house” (v. 5). The analogy here relates to the Old Testament temple, which was made of stones and was the place where God’s glory dwelt in Israel. Now, Jesus is the manifestation of God’s glory on earth. He is the “living Stone” (v. 4) as opposed to the lifeless stones of the first temple. As we come to Jesus, He makes us into a new, spiritual temple, and God’s own presence dwells within us (1 Cor. 3:17; 6:19).

Peter asserts that whenever anyone comes to Christ, a new stone is added to the spiritual house. This is a strong affirmation of the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers. Today, all believers—not just priests—have access to God’s presence. All can offer sacrifices in worship (v. 5). All believers have a place in God’s mission to the world.

Not everyone will accept this message. Peter quotes from another important Old Testament passage: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (v. 7; Ps. 118:22). Some reject the message, but those who believe have the task of witnessing to the nations—“that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (v. 9).

Go Deeper

What does it mean that Jesus has made us into “living stones”? What role has He given you in building His kingdom?

Pray with Us

You are the ultimate builder, Lord! We praise You that even when we don’t understand what You are doing, You have a plan and are using us for Your perfect purpose.

Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God.1 Peter 2:10

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Read 1 Peter 2:1–3

Have you ever been at a prayer meeting at church or a small group where the prayer requests felt more like gossip sessions than times of genuinely seeking the Lord? In chapter 2, Peter picks up on his encouragement from yesterday that the church should “love one another deeply, from the heart” (1 Pet. 1:22).

In order to love others well, we must throw off many common vices that undermine community (v.1). The vices he lists are: “malice”—a mean-spirited or vicious attitude; “deceit”—craftiness or cunning in relationships; “hypocrisy”—insincerity; “envy”; and “slander” (v. 1). It is impossible to love one another well when this kind of culture is present. Peter challenges us to get rid of these sinful behaviors so the community will not be infected.

We might expect this list of vices to be followed by a list of virtues to cultivate. But that is not what Peter advises here. Instead, he says, “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk” (v. 2). This is a call to be dependent on the Lord. “Milk” here does not refer to elementary Christian teaching as it does elsewhere in the New Testament (1 Cor. 3:1–2; Heb. 5:13). The analogy here is that just as a newborn craves milk, we also should crave pure spiritual food. What is that food? The context makes it clear; it is the “word of the Lord” (1 Pet. 1:25). We are to show our dependence on the Lord through our desire for and love of His Word. It is not possible to be full of hypocrisy, envy, and malice when we recognize our position before God.

The goal is to “grow up in your salvation” (v. 2). The best way to think about what that means is to look to Jesus.

Go Deeper

God uses His Word to help us become more like Christ. How have you seen spending time in God’s Word affect your relationships with others?

Pray with Us

Jesus, we look to Your example for how to edify our community. Help us cast off any malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander, and replace them with devotion to You and love for others.

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.1 Peter 2:2

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Read 1 Peter 1:22–25

During World War 2, Dietrich Bonhoeffer ran an underground seminary to train German pastors. In his classic book Life Together, Bonhoeffer warned his students that many church leaders have an idealized vision of church community. But once in ministry, they become disillusioned by reality. He then makes this incisive remark: “He who loves his dream of community more than the Christian community itself becomes a destroyer of the latter, even though his personal intentions may be ever so honest and earnest and sacrificial.”

Peter reminds us that we have been “born again” (v. 23). God’s Spirit has brought new life into the heart of believers through the Word of God. Because of God’s work in our lives, we are called to grow in holiness. Peter puts it this way: “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth” (v. 22).

But how do we know we are on the right track? How do we know we are growing in our faith? Here is a simple test: Do we love our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ? When we were saved, we not only had our relationship with God restored, but we were made a part of a new community—the church. Our love for one another should be more than just making small talk after a church service. We should “love one another deeply, from the heart” (v. 22).

This kind of Christian community not only models the kind of love Jesus has shown toward us, but serves as a witness to the world. On the night He was betrayed, Jesus commanded His disciples to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34–35).

Go Deeper

The way we love one another is so countercultural and unusual that it points people to Jesus. How might God be calling you to live out His love to someone this week?

Pray with Us

Father, sometimes we struggle to love one another. When we don’t feel like loving our brother or sister, remind us that You never stop loving us. Forgive us for getting caught up in our own mindset.

Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth…love one another deeply, from the heart.1 Peter 1:22

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Read 1 Peter 1:17–21

As a teacher, one of the best things I can do for my students is hold them accountable. If they think there will be no consequences for late or sloppy work, they are ultimately the ones who will suffer because they won’t really learn the material.

Peter reminds us that God is both our Father and our judge (v. 17). Since God is all-knowing and completely just, we know His judgment will be thorough and fair (v. 17). This should lead us to hold a “reverent fear” of God (v. 17). Healthy fear of God can coexist with assurance of our salvation and love for the Lord. Just as healthy fear of a loving parent might keep a child from giving in to peer pressure, fear of the Lord can protect us from lesser fears that might derail our Christian life.

Another reason to have a reverent fear of God is because we belong fully to Him. In the ancient world, purchasing slaves was a regular part of the culture. A slave could also have their freedom purchased by a benefactor, which was called “ransoming” a slave. Peter uses this imagery as an analogy for what God has done for us through Christ. He freed us from our former way of life and slavery to sin, “with the precious blood of Christ” (v. 19). This was a price far more costly than any amount of silver or gold (v. 18). Jesus is the perfect Passover Lamb (Exod. 12:5). He took the judgment that we deserved upon Himself.

Even more astounding, Jesus was chosen for this role from “before the creation of the world” (v. 20). God had planned way in advance how He would redeem fallen humanity. Amazing love! Because of what He has done for us, we can have hope for the future (v. 21).

Go Deeper

What does having a healthy fear of the Lord look like? What does it not mean? How does this healthy fear change the way we live?

Pray with Us

Hallelujah! What a Savior You are, Jesus! Thank You for ransoming us and taking our judgment upon Yourself. Please give us a healthy fear that comes from love and adoration for You.

Live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.1 Peter 1:17

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Read 1 Peter 1:13–16

Have you ever been given the advice to “live in the moment”? The idea is to be fully present where you are and not obsessed with the future or the past. It is not bad advice as far as it goes. However, today’s reading reminds us that we are not to ignore the future either. In fact, our beliefs about the future shape how we live in the present.

After spending 10 verses celebrating the salvation we have in Christ, Peter turns to describe how that salvation should impact our life today. The opening phrase is a vivid one: “Therefore, with minds that are alert” (v. 13). In the original language, this reads, “gird up the loins of your mind,” an image drawn from an ancient way of dress. A man’s tunic would go down to his ankles. If he wanted to work hard or move quickly, he had to tuck the bottom portion of his tunic into his belt. This was called “girding up your loins.” Peter applies this image to our minds. As one commentator suggests, to “roll up the shirtsleeves of your mind.”

The way we are to prepare our mind is to, “set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed” (v. 13). The way we live should be shaped by the reality that Jesus is coming back. We want to be ready. This means we won’t live as we used to before we knew Christ (v. 14); we will be different. That’s one way of thinking about what it means to be holy. As Peter challenges us, “just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do” (v. 15). Our example is always Jesus.

Go Deeper

What does it mean to be holy? How does living in the hope of Christ’s return change the way we think, speak, and act?

Pray with Us

Holy God, show us where to “roll up the shirtsleeves of our mind” and live for You. When it feels hard to be different, help us remember that we are following the example of Jesus Christ.

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.1 Peter 1:15

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Read 1 Peter 1:10–12

It is easy to take things for granted in this modern world. We can video chat with loved ones living thousands of miles away. We have good, effective treatment for many illnesses. Most of us do not have to labor in the fields for our food. Yet, these are relatively recent blessings provided by those who went before us.

Today’s reading is the second half of Peter’s long opening thanksgiving. Picking up on the theme of salvation, Peter reminds the church never to take for granted the privileged position we have. We live on the other side of Jesus Christ coming in the flesh, dying for our sin, rising again, and sending the Holy Spirit to indwell His people. Peter himself witnessed these events. As a disciple of Jesus for years, Peter was present at His trial and he saw the empty tomb. He was also there when the Holy Spirit came on believers at Pentecost (Acts 2). He does not want his readers to forget what a blessing it is to believe the gospel and be filled with the Spirit.

Even the most privileged people in the Old Testament—the prophets—did not have the same knowledge of God we have. The prophets carefully searched the Scriptures to try to understand when the Messiah would come (v. 10–11).

Peter tells us the “Spirit of Christ” directed the prophets to write about His future suffering and glory. Passages like Isaiah 53, Psalm 22, Zechariah 9:9–10 are examples. Although the prophets knew in general that the Messiah was coming, would suffer, and be glorified, they did not know the details. They were writing for the benefit of future believers who could be assured by their prophecies that Jesus is the Messiah (v. 12).

Go Deeper

We are deeply grateful for the salvation we have in Christ. As one hymnwriter expressed, “Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe.” Write an expression of thanks to our Lord and Savior today.

Pray with Us

Jesus, help us never take Your Spirit for granted. We pray that when the Spirit prompts us, our hearts will be ready to listen and obey. Teach us how we can live for You each day.

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves.Colossians 1:13

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