When Peter wrote this letter, oppression and persecution began to sweep from Rome to the edges of the Empire. In last week’s session, Peter described our new life in Christ and our hope, a future to live for. In the meantime, we can experience suffering, even persecution. How do our lives reflect this hope? We are to live in such a way that our faith is beyond reproach and our character honors the One we believe in. This is no time for shoddy thinking or sloppy living, taking liberties with His lavish grace. Learning to think clearly, staying focused on the future, and maintaining our hope in God does not come automatically. The behavior of holy living requires discipline and practice because the world tries to force us into its mold. So, dig in to how Peter tells us to focus our thinking and resulting behavior as sojourners in this alien world.
13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 20 He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of 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.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Isaac Serrano is Lead Teaching Pastor of South Valley Community Church. He likes talking theology, history, and culture. Isaac lives in Gilroy with his family. On his days off, he likes to go fishing and venture outdoors. Isaac serves on the leadership board for the Regeneration Project.
