obedience

Purpose

Looking at our own application of these verses, we are to live in sincere holiness, desiring to follow God’s word at any cost. We are to honor Him and keep our focus towards our life with Him in the future – no matter the obstacles we might face in the present.

Continuing in 1Peter Chapter four we read the exhortations from Peter, written to the Jewish and Gentile converts, to live according to the example of Christ in doing God’s will. It is enough that they had been following sin; they were to turn from their former life even though there was pressure from others to continue in sin. Their sights were to be on God with whom they were ultimately held accountable. The apostle persists in assigning reasons to these Christians why they should live according to the will of God.

1Peter 4:6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to [the will of] God.

Recall, in 1Peter 3, we were referred back to the time of Noah and the opportunity that was given for all to believe while he was building the ark. Noah was ridiculed for his belief, and so too would these new converts be reproached for their faith. Christians may be judged wrongly according to men but regardless, must live according to the word of God.

1Peter 3:19-20 in which also He went and made proclamation to the spirits [now] in prison, who once were disobedient, when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through [the] water.

It is important for us to remember that God’s judgment is perfect, and all will be judged. This is motivation to live according to His will. Through faith and obedience those who lived before Christ were saved.

How often do we make decisions based on what others might expect or think rather than what God says? We can become too concerned about the judgement of others when we truly ought to be considering the will of God instead.

Spurgeon says this in his commentary, “Our departed brethren heard the gospel to this end that, though condemned to die by their cruel persecutors, they might win the immortal crown and glorify God as his witnesses”.

Are you living in the Spirit according to the will of God? Give an example of how this might change your thinking or actions.

Romans 8:9-10 However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. And if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness.

Ephesians 2:3-5 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),

1Peter 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer.

This letter goes on to encourage the recipients in their purpose of living for the will of God. The ‘end’ means the point aimed at, the goal, or the conclusion. A few years after Peter wrote this epistle, Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans. This marked “the end of the temple, the end of the Levitical priesthood, the end of the whole Jewish economy”, (Adam Clarke’s Commentary).

However, in a more general sense, and keeping with the Apostle’s encouragement to live in holiness, looking toward that final judgement, these words seem to point either to physical death or the prophetic end of Christ’s return. Each follower of Christ is to live in a manner which has more regard for what is to happen rather than focusing on the difficulties that weigh heavy in the present – because the end is near.

Perhaps a good question to ask ourselves is, ‘what are we living towards?’. Consider what direction you are headed. When you drive, you cannot go in opposite directions at the same time. You must choose one way or another.

Matthew 3:2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."

Matthew 24:13-14 "But the one who endures to the end, he shall be saved. "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come.

Matthew 26:41 "Keep watching and praying, that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Luke 21:34-35 "Be on guard, that your hearts may not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.

James 5:8 You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

2Peter 3:10-11 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness,

Revelation 22:12 "Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward [is] with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.

This is our charge to live in holiness while we await the day of Jesus’ return. He alone has the “power and authority to recompense every man according to what he hath done”, Poole. Are you prepared?

Be of sound judgment and sober [spirit] for the purpose of prayer. “Serious; thoughtful; considerate. Let a fact of so much importance make a solemn impression on your mind, and preserve you from frivolity, levity, and vanity”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

1Thessalonians 5:6 so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1Thessalonians 5:8 But since we are of [the] day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.

2Timothy 4:5 But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

To be sober in spirit is to be of sound mind, to watch, to be aware. Our salvation is not to be taken lightly. Christ suffered and died for us; we are to live for Him.

“How strongly are vain and sinful men attached to the amusements and interests of this mortal life, and to the gratification of their lusts! But the important end of all things is at hand, when this earthly globe, and all things which are therein, shall be burnt up, when the eternal state of all its inhabitants shall be determined, and immutable happiness or misery shall be their final portion. Be sober, therefore, and watch against all occasions of intemperance and of impurity, and endeavour to preserve your souls in so divine a posture, as that you may be habitually qualified for joining in prayer and those other exercises of devotion, which have such an influence on our whole conduct”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

Does this mean we do not laugh or enjoy things around us? Where do your greatest affections lie? What are your goals, your motivations? One commentary reads, “Be ye therefore sober, temperate in all things, not inordinately pursuing nor immoderately using any thing in this world knowing how short the time is”, Thomas Haweis.

Mark 14:38 "Keep watching and praying, that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Romans 12:11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;

For the purpose of prayer. We are here to worship God, to give glory to Him in all things. Back up to 1Peter 4:6 and recall our purpose is to live according to the will of God.

Ephesians 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,

The KJV reads “and watch unto prayer”. Keeping close to God keeps us covered in His protection so that we do not fall into the temptations of the world. On our own we are weak and frail in our fight against sin. We need His power and strength to live worthy.

Even with the understanding of our need and the seriousness of our calling, there is an excitement of what is to come. There is joy to be had in the knowledge of our future in heaven and Christ’s return to earth. So, this is not a call to walk around in sackcloth and ashes; rather, it is a call to take your faith and your purpose seriously. God’s children have been appointed to live in holiness according to His will, and in His strength.

Growing in Holiness

What good is great accomplishment or an aesthetically pleasing outside if the heart within is in disarray?

1Peter 3:1-6 In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. And let not your adornment be [merely] external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but [let it be] the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands. Thus Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

Verse five assigns a general example of wives submitting to their husbands, and verse six gives a specific example. The Apostle teaches the preference of a beautiful heart over beautiful looks, reminding women what is the most pleasing to God.

Examples of the past are a useful tool. Consider how important your example might be to those following after you – children, grandchildren, friends, and family. Will they see a heart desiring to honor Jesus? These women are described as holy, hopeful, and submissive. Holiness must come first – a heart yielded to God – this produces hope in His promises and a desire to humbly obey His truths.

Holy – from hagios, means to be morally blameless. A heart which is righteous or holy, is one that follows Jesus. It is a heart yielded to Him out of gratitude for grace and mercy shown at the cross.

Only God can make a heart holy. Yet we have work to do to. Look at the scriptures below. What habits or qualities are seen in those who seek holiness?

Colossians 3:12-13 And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.

Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship.

Take a closer look at some of the words in the above verses.

Compassion – inward affection and tender mercies; a deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering

Kindness – usefulness, gentleness, goodness; warmhearted, considerate, sympathetic

Humility – of mind; a lack of false pride; no need for recognition; looking to others as being more important than oneself

Gentleness – meekness, humility; mild, even-tempered, softness

Patience – longsuffering, fortitude; a good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence

Forbearance – endurance; a delay in enforcing rights, claims, or privileges, patience

Forgiveness – graciousness, kindness; compassion that supports a willingness to forgive; the act of excusing a mistake or offense

Sacrifice – surrendering personal ‘rights’, likes, or desires

Service – worship; work which benefits another; help, assistance; to fulfill a purpose, role, or function; to devote one’s life or efforts

These words are not a checklist to complete and then feel good about oneself. Pleasing God begins in your heart devotion to Him. These qualities or habits are developed as we seek to follow God.

John 17:17 "Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth.

Sanctify is derived from the same root word as holy. Holiness comes from the truth; our responsibility is to seek to know and understand God’s word.

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

Proverbs 31:30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, [But] a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.

1Timothy 2:9-10 Likewise, [I want] women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments; but rather by means of good works, as befits women making a claim to godliness.

Look again at the text. “For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God”. Hope means to expect or trust. This expectation is more than wishful thinking. It is to consider that something is likely to happen. Hope in God places trust in Him that He does what He says, He fulfills His promises. Consider God’s testimony to us in His written word. It is alive with His miraculous power and wonder! There is no limit to our hope; there is no limit to God’s power. My favorite definition of miracles comes from a children’s song, “to anticipate the inevitable, supernatural, intervention of God”. Past holy women sought the importance of developing the characteristics spoken of in 1Peter 3:5. They adorned themselves with a gentle and quiet spirit – and this was seen in their humble submission to their own husbands.

“…used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands”. The world is clamoring for our attention, we are encouraged to be like everyone else, and to embrace all philosophies. However, our primary concern should be to develop those inner qualities that have lasting value. Women today are encouraged to follow their own desires and ambitions first, before thinking of others. Words of self are touted, “This is my time”, and “This is for me”. What good is great accomplishment or an aesthetically pleasing outside if the heart within is in disarray? And even beyond and more importantly, whose time is it and for what purpose?

Verse 6 continues to impress submission out of obedience to the Lord and moves on to the more specific example of Sarah. It says, “Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord”. She willingly chose to listen to him, to take heed to his authority. This does not mean she was inferior in her abilities; it does not mean she could not think for herself, or she did not have important responsibilities and goals; it does mean she loved God and therefore was obedient to God’s will. She showed her husband respect by calling him lord. “The word lord has the elementary idea of ruling, and this is the sense here – that she acknowledged that he had a right to direct the affairs of his household, and that it was her duty to be in subjection to him as the head of the family”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary. This is not to say that married woman today should be addressing their husbands as lord. In the time period and place this was written, it was quite common for married woman to address their husbands in this manner. What we can take from this is having an attitude of respect for one’s husband in his position of leadership.

Do you willingly place yourself under the subjection of your husband if you are married, and others who are in authority? Do you encourage those you know to do the same?

Verse 6 uses Sarah as an example to follow. She was not perfect, no one is, but she trusted in God’s promises and is mentioned in the text of Hebrews 11 along with the ‘heroes of faith’.

Hebrews 11:11 By faith even Sarah herself received ability to conceive, even beyond the proper time of life, since she considered Him faithful who had promised;

We can emulate her faith in obedience no matter the circumstances which surround us.

“…and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear”. In becoming ‘her children’, this may refer to being the heirs of Abraham in Genesis 21. Think of this as being spiritual daughters rather than daughters according to the flesh.

Genesis 21:12 But God said to Abraham, "Do not be distressed because of the lad and your maid; whatever Sarah tells you, listen to her, for through Isaac your descendants shall be named.

Galatians 3:29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.

Notice the expected condition – “…if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear”.

We have an example in Sarah of acting upon her fears in Genesis 18:15, Sarah denied [it] however, saying, “I did not laugh”; for she was afraid. And He said, “No, but you did laugh.” Because she was afraid, she denied the truth. We will also fail simply because we are human, yet the determination needs to be that of full obedience to God.

“They were to do well; to be faithful to their husbands; to be firm in their principles; to adhere steadfastly to what was true and good, whatever trials they might pass through, however much they might be threatened with persecution, or however any might attempt to deter them from the performance of their duty. Thus, by a life of Christian fidelity, unawed by fear from any quarter, they would show that they were imbued with the same principles of unbending virtue which characterised the wife of the father of the faithful, and that they were not unworthy to be regarded as her daughters”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Compare:

1Peter 3:13-14 And who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

Isaiah 8:13 "It is the LORD of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation.

In a yielded and steadfast heart, there is security in obedience to God. When trouble arises, we can pray instead of panic as we rely upon God’s intervention. Remember Peter’s audience – in general it was to all believers in respect to all authority; specifically it was to wives whose husbands were unbelievers. In situations of submission, we need to uphold our loyalty to God’s truths. Fear of displeasing men should not guide our actions. Recall the account of steadfast obedience in Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel Chapter 3. Now remember the account of Peter’s fearful denial in Matthew 26:69-75.

Proverbs 3:25-26 Do not be afraid of sudden fear, nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; for the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.

1Peter 2:15 For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.

Also remember the beginning of this chapter in 1Peter verses 1 and 2 which correlated holy behavior as a tool in drawing others to know Jesus.

Do you allow the threat of inconvenience or danger to affect your obedience to Truth? How can you combat this?

Are you considering the ornamentation of your heart to be more important than your outside appearance? What steps are you taking to grow in your understanding and trust of God?

Even in those cases where you may be exposed to ill-treatment, are you willing to trust God’s wisdom and promises?

Let’s pray that God increases our desire to grow in His holiness.

Heart Submission

The importance is not so much the submission; it is the purpose of submission. Submission comes from a heart of obedience. Being submissive to God’s commands, gives glory to His deity.

We’ll concentrate on three important words – submission, conversation, and behavior. These words describe some of the characteristics of those who seek to follow Jesus. Keep this question in mind – What do others see in us?

Specifically in this case the focus is on wives, however the testimony of our love for Christ through our words and actions is universal to all God’s children. So whether you are single, divorced, married, or widowed, these principles should be applied.

1Peter 3:1-2 In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior.

1Peter Chapter 1 listed the numerous blessings of being called by Christ to follow Him. In Him we have a certain future; we are able to have joy not based on circumstances but rather on God’s promises.

1Peter Chapter 2 introduced specific sins we are to avoid and the need for our pursuit of growth in our walk. Jesus is our solid foundation and those who follow Him are blessed. Excellent behavior and submission to authority will cause a believer to look different from the world around them. This may be difficult, yet it is desirable because God is honored by our example of His righteousness. We have God’s protection as our Shepherd; our purpose is to glorify Him in all things.

Now in 1Peter Chapter 3, the instruction of submitting to those in leadership over us continues with specific examples.

In the NAS, the first words we read are, ‘In the same way’. The KJV says, ‘Likewise’. These words refer to what has already been described in the previous chapter. The concept of submission is applied to those in governing authority (2:13), to masters (2:18), and now, in wives to their own husbands. We could also include children to parents, employers to employees, and perhaps there are other relationships you can think of where submitting to authority would apply.

The importance is not so much the submission; it is the purpose of submission. Submission comes from a heart of obedience. Being submissive to God’s commands gives glory to His deity. God knows all things therefore we can trust and obey His plan. Submission itself, as a practice, is a powerful tool in avoiding chaos. You have heard the idiom, “too many chiefs and not enough Indians”. This saying may be politically incorrect in our culture today, but it describes a picture for us of everyone wanting to be in charge and not enough people willing to do the work. Instruction gives direction, it produces order, and it encourages accomplishment of a task.

What was Jesus’ example of submission?

Matthew 26:39 And He went a little beyond [them,] and fell on His face and prayed, saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt."

John 6:38 "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

Philippians 2:8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

This charge to submission is not to be forced. It is a choice to place oneself under another, to become subordinate to another and obey. Forcing someone to obey is just controlling someone. Much the same as forcing someone to love – it cannot be done. The action of following commands or saying ‘I love you’ mean nothing if not from the heart. When we view ourselves as being subject to authority, we willingly surrender power to someone else. This is an act of humility – desiring to please someone else’s directive above your own. It acknowledges that perhaps others have a better understanding or more complete information.

Read Jesus’ words, ‘not as I will’. Jesus did not quit when it got difficult, He did not give up on the will of His Father, He did not decide He had a better plan, and He did not abandon His purpose or position. Instead He relied on God’s perfect plan for mankind’s redemption. He called on God’s grace and strength to complete His mission. He chose to trust in God’s plan and paid the ultimate price in giving His life. There is no account of His saying it was too hard, or others were too mean, or that He simply could not continue because He did not like what was happening. His sight was on the authority of His Father in heaven. His example is one of greatest humility. Jesus’ example is that God knows perfectly how His plan of redemption will come to fruition and to honor Him, we must obey and willingly be used by Him for His glory.

In Chapter 2 of this book, we read that in the case of governing authorities and masters of all kinds we are to submit. Similarly, wives are to submit themselves to their husbands. This act of willful obedience recognizes the important role of a husband to lead as the rightful head of the family.

Ephesians 5:21-24 and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Wives, [be subject] to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself [being] the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives [ought to be] to their husbands in everything.

1Corinthians 11:3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ.

Colossians 3:18 Wives, be subject to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

1Peter 3:1 speaks mainly to wives with an unbelieving husband, however the principle to submit remains the same in application to those whose husbands believe. You may be thinking that because you are widowed or single, the understanding of this truth is not applicable or lacks importance for you. I would disagree. How do you encourage your married friends and family? Are you respectful of their relationships? It also might be tempting to spend more time with your friend who is a believer than your husband who is not. What would God have you do?

Think of this simple word picture of walking a dog. How difficult is it to leash a dog and walk it if it is pulling and grunting and fighting every step of the way? When our French bulldog Lily, was a puppy, we would try to take her on walks – notice the word try – and always a few blocks into our walk she would simply lay down, sometimes in the middle of crossing a street, and refuse to take another step. The choice at that point was to leave her, drag her, or carry her the rest of the way. Although this is a silly example it does convey the difficulty to those in charge when we refuse to submit.

Do we encourage leadership by supporting those in charge or do we make it difficult, always pushing our own directives as more important?

Willful submission encourages those in authority. In addition, this behavior also has the potential of gaining approval. Our verse says ‘be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any [of them] are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives’.

“The apostle next gave directions concerning the duties of wives and husbands, as a matter of great importance to the credit and success of the gospel. In general, wives were commanded to be “subject to their own husbands;” and even they who were married to Gentiles or other unbelievers, whether they had been converted since their marriage, or had sinfully brought themselves into so trying a situation, ought to obey this commandment in all things lawful ... This must be attended to in a conscientious manner; not only in order to lighten their own trial and to “adorn the gospel,” but with an especial aim at the conversion of their husbands; which was not so much to be expected from a disputatious attempt to teach them the gospel, as from the silent persuasive eloquence of a becoming deportment. Thus the wives might hope to win upon those who did not obey the word, but treated it with contempt and neglect; as the constant, obliging, amiable conduct, and prudent discourse of such near relatives, would tend to soften their prejudices and conciliate their affections; and so induce them to pay more attention to the preaching of the gospel”, Thomas Scott.

1Corinthians 7:16 For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?

1Corinthians 9:19 For though I am free from all [men,] I have made myself a slave to all, that I might win the more.

Ephesians 5:1-2 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

Colossians 4:5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity.

Proverbs 11:30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who is wise wins souls.

Titus 2:3-5 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips, nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, [to be] sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonored.

Note, submission is not based on whether it is easy, acknowledged, or appreciated. Rather, it is based on our love and obedience to God. Circumstances should not be the sole dictator of our actions; instead, God’s love for us and our gratefulness to Him, should cause our willful subjection to authority.

The act of submitting to those in authority, and especially to one’s husband, is considered archaic and even oppressive in our culture today. This is not a popular or accepted ideal. This means we will look different than those around us who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. By our unusual example, perhaps we will have the opportunity to share truth.

Galatians 1:10 For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

Proverbs 16:7 When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, [even] Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.

Does my conduct influence those around me, specifically my unbelieving husband if applicable, to desire the very thing that causes my pleasing acceptance of their leadership?

Is my example godly or worldly?

Consider how the behavior and words of others affect you either negatively or positively. We can be drawn towards another and more readily listen to them and observe them with interest. Or we can be repulsed by someone’s actions, wanting nothing to do with their philosophies.

Read Paul’s account of humility in his letter to the church at Philippi.

Philippians 3:7-8 But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ,

1Peter 1:17-19 And if you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each man's work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay [upon earth]; knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, [the blood] of Christ.

Fear and reverence of God will result in subjection to obedience towards your own husband and towards those placed in authority. We are called to share the Gospel when we speak; we are called to exemplify the Gospel through our behavior.

1Peter 3:2 as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior.

Whether we like it or not, whether we admit others are affected by our words and actions, the reality is others do watch. Consider a child imitating their parent or an employee watching the example of their employer. We may not be responsible entirely for someone else's decisions however we must realize that our example does absolutely affect others. For this, we are responsible!

The word observe used in 1Peter 3:2 can be translated to inspect, to watch, to behold. When we inspect something, we look at it carefully, we check for accuracy and verification of its source. In this case, the unbelieving husband pays attention to his wife’s behavior. He can either be drawn towards her beliefs or pushed away from them. There is no guarantee that excellent behavior will draw him in however we never want to be the one whose inconsistencies deter someone away from the Gospel. In the same principle, we never want to be the cause for confusion in a believer’s life.

The wife in this scripture is called to be chaste or pure in her example, morally upright. She is called to be respectful in her behavior and conversation. Back up to the second Chapter of 1Peter for a moment and recall its words –

1Peter 2:12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may on account of your good deeds, as they observe [them,] glorify God in the day of visitation.

Ephesians Chapter 5

Ephesians 5:33 commands a wife to respect or revere her husband.

Is all your conversation and behavior filtered through your reverence for God?

Are you mindful of your words and actions towards those in authority?

Are you emulating Jesus’ example of humility in all circumstances?

“The trait of character which is referred to is that of proper respect and reverence in all the relations which she sustained, as opposed to a trifling and frivolous mind. Leighton suggests that the word fear here relates particularly to the other duty enjoined--that of chaste conversation--"fearing the least stain of chastity, or the very appearance of anything not suiting with it. It is a delicate, timorous grace, afraid of the least air, or shadow of anything that hath but a resemblance of wronging it, in carriage, or speech, or apparel", Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

What does God say about our conversation?

1Peter 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; KJV

Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; KJV

1Timothy 4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but [rather] in speech, conduct, love, faith [and] purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.

Our call is to submit regardless of the circumstances, in the hope that our example may represent Christ’s righteousness and draw those around us to desire to know Him. Our behavior and conversation can be used as a valuable tool in encouraging others in Christ. Our submission acknowledges God’s deity, His power, and His right to rule over all.

Following Jesus’ Example of Humility and Love

My moral conscience is not the line I use to make decisions, it is what guides me in applying the knowledge of God’s teaching and commands.

Our study on 1Peter 2:19 must be built upon the previous truths in 1 Peter 2. Verse 18 reads, “Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.

Why? Our answer follows in verse 19 –

1 Peter 2:19 For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Look carefully at the words above, “if for the sake of conscience toward God”. This means I am willing to seek righteousness, according to Jesus’ example of humility and love, because I want to be obedient to God. My ultimate loyalty is to follow His commands and act in a manner worthy of His calling. This is not “I am going to stand my ground to defend my beliefs”. It is, “I am determined to follow God’s teaching no matter what”. We are not submissive to authority because we agree, or we support their values. We are submissive to authority because it pleases God when we are obedient to those in positions of authority.

As a people group, we are quick to pursue a cause we believe in. We are free in this country to demonstrate that cause and give reason for our commitment. Sometimes these special interests are based on what we think is best and they have no moral right or wrong attached to them such as remaining on daylight savings time or where street signs should be placed. We have been given a conscience to help guide our thinking.

A believer has been given the Holy Spirit to guide them in understanding and truth based upon God’s word. Conscience means with knowledge. In this case it is with the knowledge of God’s truths upon which my speech, thoughts, and actions are based. My decisions, actions, and thoughts are not regulated by my conscience; rather, my conscience is regulated by God’s truths. In other words, I cannot form my opinion and then find support in God’s word. I am required to know God’s word and let that knowledge form my beliefs. Relying upon the Holy Spirit will affect our message and representation of God.

John 14:16-17 "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; [that is] the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not behold Him or know Him, [but] you know Him because He abides with you, and will be in you.

John 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.

John 16:13 "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.

Paul was careful to explain to the Corinthian church the importance of following truth given by the Spirit working in a believer’s life, rather than wisdom based on the thinking of man.

1Corinthians 2:12-13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual [thoughts] with spiritual [words.] Continue reading through the end of the chapter.

Notice the words in the preceding verse, 1Peter 2:15, “he who is spiritual appraises all things”. This means to scrutinize, and implies that we investigate, ask questions, discern, examine, and search in order to seek to understand God’s ways. The only way this is possible is by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life. There is diligence expected on our part to study to be certain we are following God’s truths and not our own desires. Think of having self-control. This is the act of restraining my behavior. I might want to respond harshly to those who have treated others or myself unfairly. I might be ‘right’ in my assessment of another’s bullying or unfair treatment, but this never justifies marring my witness of Christ.

We are not going to find a directive on what kind of flowers to plant or if we should raise chickens! However, we do need to be certain than in those things where our witness of God is affected and our obedience to Him is in question, we are careful to seek His guidance. This means we are not determined to find a way to follow our own thoughts but instead we are determined to understand God’s direction. According to 1 Peter 2:18, we are to be willing to submit to others, even if it is difficult or I do not agree or I am treated poorly, because it is what Jesus did and it honors God. I may be right in thinking something is unfair or could be done more effectively but I am still to submit because it is God’s command. This is a fitting example of ‘I might want to act one way, but God directs me to act another way’. Now, instead of being a question of understanding or agreement, it is a question of obedience and honor to God.

Our perfect example is to follow is Jesus. The words he spoke to His Father describe the heart attitude we should embrace. “Not my will, but Thine, be done”, (Luke 22:42). Let’s break some of the words down in 1 Peter 2:19. I think it will give us a clearer understanding.

The first phrase is “For this [finds] favor”. Favor is translated from the Greek word charis, meaning graciousness, of manner or act. Especially the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude.

Read again 1 Peter 2:18, Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable – (19) For this finds favor … Because this is grace. “This is graceful indeed” (Doddridge). Meaning it is acceptable to God. Because of God – and His work in our lives – because we have been given the Holy Spirit to help us understand God’s truths, we can choose what is right.

Our sole/soul purpose is to glorify God out of gratitude for who He is and what He has done. Think! Who or what do your thoughts and actions point towards? How can we know what glorifies God? The answer is simple to express with words, right? However, to fulfill this charge in our actions, it takes a determination to respond in humility. We seek truth from His word. God has graciously given us a manual for living, a testimony of His great love for us. Yet, however clear the answer may be to what glorifies God, putting His truths into practice, having them embedded in our soul, takes concerted desire and effort.

We glorify God by acknowledging who He is, His greatness, His power, all He has done and all He will do.

1 Chronicles 16:23-36

We glorify God by honoring Him with our life, in everything we do.

1 Corinthians 10:31-33; Psalm 37:31

We glorify God through submitting to His commands in humility of heart.

John 14:15

We glorify God with our thoughts.

Psalm 1; Psalm 119:11

In what other ways can you glorify God?

We certainly should not look to be persecuted or cause our own mishaps, yet if honoring God means being submissive to those who treat us unfairly, then we can choose to endure discomfort and grief.

Matthew 5:10 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Romans 13:5 Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

We hear the word conscience used frequently. Choosing to do or not to do something is often supported by the idea of following your moral conscience. In Romans 13:5 above, the word conscience, suneidesis, means co-perception or moral consciousness. It is a form of the word suneido, meaning to see completely, to understand or become aware, to be informed of, and to know.

This bears repeating, we need to be careful that our moral conscience is regulated and supported by the truths in God’s word. My conscience needs to be directed by the knowledge of God. I cannot and should not decide for someone else what their conscience or convictions should be. I do need to encourage and uplift others as they seek to determine what God would have them do in areas that may allow for different interpretation. However, this particular verse in 1 Peter 2:19 is clear –

I am to be in subjection to authority not only because there will be consequences from authority if I choose to disregard them, but most importantly because I have the freedom to obey God, and I am expected as God’s child, to act according to the knowledge God has given me in His word.

Choosing what is right because God says so always trumps feelings based on man’s knowledge and keeps us from misguided interpretation. My moral conscience is not the line I use to make decisions, it is what guides me in applying the knowledge of God’s teaching and commands. Understanding Biblical truth does not require formal scholastic education in Biblical studies. It does require a humble heart which seeks to know God, is filled with His Holy Spirit, and has a desire to apply His precepts.

You can immediately understand the need for each individual to seek guidance from the one true source – God – rather than follow what sounds right or what is thought or even what someone else may think. Even a highly respected person can be wrong in their personal conviction; God’s principles and commands, however, are always right. God has given man a conscience to help us determine right from wrong. As a follower of Christ, the basis for my convictions should be the Bible.

1Peter 3:14-16 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always [being] ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

Instead of choosing to ‘suffer’ the loss of our ‘rights’, we can choose to focus on the opportunities to represent Christ and share the Gospel in every situation. We are to be careful not to bring our own suffering upon ourselves because of unrighteous behavior. Read the above scripture again. Is it my responsibility to defend the church or to defend the Gospel? Defense means to give answers. Are you equipped to give answers for what you believe? Is it possible that we find ourselves in conflict with others because we are seeking to prove our thoughts more than God’s teaching?

The motivation for our action is to honor God. Self, other than the witness of God in my life, should never be in the picture.

1 Peter 4:14-16 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.

Read Adam Clarke’s Commentary on 1 Peter 2:19. “For this is thankworthy. If, in a conscientious discharge of your duty, you suffer evil, this is in the sight of God thankworthy, pleasing, and proper; it shows that you prefer his authority to your own ease, peace, and emolument; it shows also, as Dr. Macknight has well observed, that they considered their obligation to relative duties not to depend on the character of the person to whom they were to be performed, nor on their performing the duties they owed to their servants, but on the unalterable relations of things established by God.”

“To suffer meekly, and without blame, and to do this out of a sense of the resignation due to the will of God, is a virtue which He kindly accepts, and will not fail to reward”, Dean Stanhope 1800’s.

If for the sake of conscience toward God. Meaning, “consciousness of God”: from a conscientious regard to God, more than to men. (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary)

Our conscious toward God is led out of our respect for God and a sincere desire to please Him – it is based upon His commands and our knowledge of them. “But the conscience is not an infallible guide and acts according to the light that it has. The conscience can be contaminated”, Robertson’s NT Word Pictures.

2 Corinthians 1:12 For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you.

Hebrews 10:22 let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled [clean] from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

A man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Read how David responds to unjust treatment.

Psalm 119:86-87 All Thy commandments are faithful; they have persecuted me with a lie; help me! They almost destroyed me on earth, but as for me, I did not forsake Thy precepts.

Psalm 119:23 Even though princes sit and talk against me, Thy servant meditates on Thy statutes.

Psalm 119:78 May the arrogant be ashamed, for they subvert me with a lie; [but] I shall meditate on Thy precepts.

What is the example set before us when we feel we are treated unfairly?

2Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

I want God’s divine truth to regulate my conscience. I want His divine influence to control my heart. Then my actions will be guided by His will and be a reflection of His saving grace in my life.

Is It About Me or About My Savior?

In all things we are to glorify God. In all relationships we are to glorify God,
looking to Jesus’ example of humility and righteousness.

1Peter 2:18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable.

What do you read in the above verse?

Peter now moves to the duty of servants to their masters. The words in this verse are straight forward, meaning when you read them, they say what they mean. You may have heard this often-used phrase, ‘If the plain literal words make good sense, seek no other sense’. Sometimes a problem arises because we do not like the plain literal sense of the message we are given. Think how often you have told your child to do something and the answer you get is ‘but what about …’. Most of us are guilty of this same response to direction. We think of a way out or a way around or simply a way to change the instruction we do not like.

In our culture today, we would not necessarily describe relationships using the terms servant and master. The word servant in this verse refers mainly to household servants or domestic servants which lived in the same house. This was common at that time and the command would apply whether they were hired or whether they were owned as slaves. In our culture and practices today, we could apply this command to anyone in a paid position or under the service of one in authority. This could even be a worker you have hired to do a specific job. For instance, we have in the past had someone who was paid to work on the yard or help with something inside our home. The expectation was that this person would receive a certain amount of money for a specific amount of work. Fulfilling our request did not matter if the worker agreed with our plan. It is quite possible they had a better way of doing something – what mattered was they did what was expected. Think of this example – when you were a student, specific goals were set for you to accomplish. It did not matter if you liked or even agreed with the course material; it did not matter if you felt you already knew the information or had a better way of accomplishing the same task, if you wanted to pass the class you adhered to the direction given by your professor.

Under most circumstances, when we find ourselves under the obligation to act in obedience, it will be toward those who are good and gentle, and reasonable and kind. For instance, I was blessed to develop a friendship with a woman who helped in our home when my mother-in-law lived with us. Our families became involved with one another, and she eventually accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior in my kitchen!

Yet, what do we do when we are asked to submit to those who are unreasonable? Well, as long as we are not asked to sin, then it is not important whether we think something is unnecessary or a waste of time, or foolish. If my employer requests that I draw a red line exactly down the center of each piece of paper that filters across my desk, then however ridiculous I think it might be, I can choose to do it because they are in charge. I might think their request is unreasonable and they are crazy, however their position requires my respect and submission. Not only might I get fired if I don’t submit, but I will also loose the opportunity to build relationships with the hope of sharing Christ.

The question that pops in my mind is, “Am I willing to deny myself for my Savior”? Read the words of Paul in Philippians 2:5-8, Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the like ness of men, and being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. If anyone ever had the right to stand His ground, it was Jesus! But He chose not to do so in order to please His Father and redeem your soul. His example is what we are to follow.

It is difficult to choose to give up what we deem our ‘rights’. We do not like others pressing in upon our space or crowding our ‘freedoms’. We are quick to draw lines in the sand. Our feelings get hurt or we concentrate on the ‘unfairness’ of a situation. Consider what happens when a child comes home from school and is hurt because someone was ‘mean’ to them. Do they stop going to school, or quit? Of course not! Hopefully, they are encouraged to be kind and carry on in spite of those who aren’t nice. Our thinking can focus on ourselves and an attitude of “you can only go so far until I will become insistent on my views’. However we need to be certain our views and where we choose to be immovable is according to the truth and example we have in God’s word. If I choose to take a stand for my own convenience or my opinion or because it fits what I think, without proof for my action from Truth, then I am serving myself under the pretense of serving God. I cannot form my opinion and then find the scriptures that will support my thinking; rather, I must go to the scriptures and ask God to give me understanding of His word. Then with that understanding of His truth, I am led what to think. We need to be careful! Words can sound compelling, and we are easily led by what sounds righteous rather than what is truth and fact in scripture. Are the decisions you make based on the word or on feelings.

In any relationship we find ourselves, we must remember we are Christians, ultimately representing God and serving Him. To those who are our masters (rulers, employers, teachers, and all those in authority over us), we are to submit. Obedience is a choice we are able to make because Christ has changed our heart and our desire is to please Him and follow His example. If you find yourself thinking ‘you’ve had enough’ and you ‘can no longer take it’, think back to Christ. I am personally so thankful He never gave up on the human race.

1Timothy 6:1 Let all who are under the yoke as slaves regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and [our] doctrine may not be spoken against.

Titus 2:9-10 [Urge] bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.

Go back for a moment to the reason this letter was written. The Apostle Peter wrote this to believers who were being persecuted for their faith. Peter reminded them of God’s protection and their inheritance in heaven. They were suffering through difficulties, yet these trials were a means for the proof and strengthening of their faith in Jesus. Peter reminded them to fix their hope on the future and to act in obedience to God’s calling. They were to follow Jesus’ example of holiness. They were valuable and were to love one another remembering that their time here on earth was short. Therefore, they were to seek God’s truths so that they would mature as Christians and regard their difficulties as opportunities to glorify God. God was their secure foundation, and their purpose was to proclaim Him. They were to honor Him by keeping their behavior excellent, willingly submitting to those in authority. They had been freed from the control of sin, and now had the freedom to choose righteousness. What did this look like? By all means they were to promote peace, setting their sights on furthering the Gospel. Their freedom was not to be used to usurp authority but rather to honor God. Even when it was difficult.

Our text says, Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect. Seriously?! In our selfish and prideful thinking we can easily think that this is asking a bit too much! We are to not only submit, but we are to submit with all respect. Respect does not mean we must agree. It means we understand the position someone holds. This is difficult. However, we need to have the right attitude towards those in charge because it is what scripture teaches. In our own human weakness, this is quite impossible. Let’s remember, God is the one who has placed people exactly where He wants them for His purpose. God is the one we are honoring when we willingly yield to His perfect plan just as Christ did when He was crucified.

When we bow ourselves before God and are reminded of the sacrifice of His only Son, willingly assuming the pain of suffering and separation as our sin was atoned, we are equipped by grace to act in humility and righteousness towards others.

This gets even more difficult when we read the rest of 1 Peter 2:18. We are to be submissive to those in authority with all respect regardless if they are good and gentle or unreasonable. The overriding imperative to everyone is to act with good conduct (1Peter 2:11, 12, 13, and 16); a direct application is servants to masters. Submit with respect, if at all possible, under all circumstances. Respect is translated ‘fear’. Not necessarily because of a fear of the person themselves although in many cases they would have the authority to exercise disciplinary action, but ultimately because we fear God, (1 Peter 2:13).

Colossians 3:22 Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who [merely] please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.

Ephesians 6:5-8 Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; not by way of eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.

Jesus was fully God and fully man while on this earth. Yet, He placed Himself in subjection to His earthly parents. Luke 2:48-51

1 Peter 3:1 says wives are to be subject to their husbands.

According to one commentary, the Jews were unwilling “to submit to any Gentile masters; and those of them who believed in Christ were by their Judaizing teachers persuaded to think that they owed no obedience to unbelieving masters”, Thomas Haweis. From the same commentary we are reminded of Jesus’ example – “leaving us an example of patience and long-suffering under all the most cruel and unjust treatment which he met with, that ye should follow his steps, and be conformed to his blessed pattern; who, grievously as he suffered, yet did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth; his bitterest enemies could not so much as fix upon him the shadow of a crime: who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; but observed an admirable silence, as the sheep before her shearers is dumb: when he suffered, he threatened not, nor discovered the least anger at his tormentors; but committed himself and his cause to him that judgeth righteously, and to whom vengeance belongeth”.

Note these questions and applications –

We look to Christ for pardon and righteousness, should we not also follow His example of patience and meekness? 
Are we desiring to receive His forgiveness and gift of eternal life but not willing to accept that in receiving His grace we must act in accordance with His commands?

 

Since we have been saved to righteousness, we are deceived if we choose to live in sin and flatter ourselves with the certain hope of eternal life in Christ. We should be encouraged to willingly accept every burden which He places in our lives.

Our sufferings or mistreatment are not an excuse for impatience or anger, however unreasonable our authorities may be.
Christ’s example not only teaches us to not lash out for ill treatment or demand the rights we wrongly claim title to – His example also teaches us to pray for the very ones who are unreasonable – He prayed for those who crucified Him.
We gain nothing from strife; contentment is found in godliness. We should not choose to give up when we feel we are treated poorly, or someone is ‘mean’ or unfair. We continue to serve – following Christ’s example.

I fear, as a people, we have claimed ‘rights’ to things which were never given to us by God. Think! What did you bring into this world? Of course the answer is nothing. The reality is we own nothing – not even our own selves. Jesus purchased our souls. God created our being.

In all things we are to glorify God. In all relationships we are to glorify God,

looking to Jesus’ example of humility and righteousness.

1 Peter 2:20-24 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer [for it] you patiently endure it, this [finds] favor with God. For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Christ chose to endure ill-treatment, harshness, false accusations, physical pain, and ultimately spiritual separation from His Father as the sin of man was atoned. Are we more concerned about how others treat us than how we are to serve God in righteousness?

Honor – Love – Fear

The freedom we have in Christ is to be used for His service. We are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness.

Honor, love, and fear are words quite familiar to us. We use these words liberally in our conversation; we read them, and we hear them. Fictional stories are often based upon the concepts of honor, love, and fear. To show honor is acceptable, to love others is expected, even to fear God is generally accepted in our culture. Honor is given to our heads of government; this is seen in their housing, mode of transportation, and the hundreds of thousands of people who gather to see or hear them. Honor is given to those who have accomplished great feats; the Guinness Book of World Records, first published in 1955, notes the names of those who have excelled in a variety of subjects and activities. People in general would say they love others by giving to the needy and supporting different humanitarian efforts. Some individuals may adhere to the idea of a ‘higher being’ who is able to rain hail and brimstone from the heavens.

1 Peter 2:17 Honor all men; love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

As we dig into this verse, keep these questions in mind –

What does it mean to truly honor someone according to God’s word?

Why would we honor all men?

How do we love others beyond words or writing a check? What is ‘the brotherhood’?

What actions result from fearing God? Why would we fear Him?

Can we honor those in authority when we do not agree with them? Why should we honor those in authority?

Honor all men.

Honor, timao, means to prize, to fix a valuation upon, by implication, to revere. (Strong’s Greek Dictionary)

Honor: bestow honor upon, show respect towards, a symbol of distinction. (WordWeb)

Think of the ways you might show honor to someone. You would speak highly of them and often, you would encourage others to get to know them, you would be excited to introduce them to your friends and family. When they spoke you would give your undivided attention to their words. You would value your time with them, even protect it.

We can honor plans and events. These are the things you write on your calendar in pen instead of pencil. You have heard the phrase, ‘I’ll pencil it in’. This means that if it is convenient, the plan that is suggested will hold; however, if something else comes up, the suggested plan will be cancelled. This does not mean something is unimportant, but it does mean that it may not be as important as other things.

The opposite of honor is dishonor. This is a state of shame or disgrace. Someone who is not honorable lacks integrity.

How can we honor all men when ‘all’ men are not honorable? In general, we highly esteem men because they are God’s creation. God created all men therefore each of us should treat one another with kindness, hindering no one. All men are made in the image of God.

Genesis 1:27 And God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.

You may have heard the saying, ‘treat others as you would like them to treat you’.

Matthew 7:12 “Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets”.

Jesus died for all men therefore, those standing next to you or before you may be fellow heirs of eternity. Because of this, each individual has personal worth. Specifically related to this verse is what is said before. In our study on 1 Peter 2:13-16, we looked at obedience and submission to those God has placed in authority over us. Positionally, those in authority deserve our honor – not because we agree – but because God has allowed them to be in that place at this time.

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;

“Christ has dignified our humanity by assuming it; therefore we should not dishonor, but be considerate to and honor our common humanity, even in the very humblest”, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary.

The idea of honoring all men is difficult because we readily tend to place judgment upon each other. The challenge is to show honor to all – the lowest and even, in our minds, the undeserving. Regardless of wealth, position, looks, accomplishments and so forth, we are to honor man because he is created by God. When you consider what Christ has done for you and the fact that God has chosen you to personally know Him, gratefulness born out of humility is the response.

If God can save you even in your wretched state, will He not save others? Each created individual has value.

How do we apply the command to ‘honor all men’? We willingly submit ourselves to those placed in authority. We cultivate humility in our hearts and attitudes, placing others before ourselves. Practically speaking, one of the best ways to honor others is to share the truth of the Gospel in the hopes that God would bring them to a saving knowledge of His forgiveness and grace.

How will you apply the command to honor all men?

Do you need to take a closer look at how you are treating others?

Do you choose to honor some yet not all?

When I consider personally responding to each individual as God’s creation, I am quickly reminded of their value, and this affects my response and actions – even towards those who I think make my life miserable, even towards those who I think are wrong, even towards those who I think should know better, etc., etc. It is good for us to consider the purpose for our actions, thoughts, and words before we engage them. Am I encouraging, am I seeking the welfare of others? Ask yourself this question – Who am I? The answer – nothing without Christ.

Love the brotherhood.

Your brothers and sisters in Christ, those who are likeminded, those who recognize Jesus alone as Savior, those who realize they are dependent on God’s saving grace, those who are persevering toward the same goal of God’s glory and making disciples.

Romans 12:10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

1Peter 3:8-9 To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

Let’s look closer at the above scripture to get a clearer picture of loving others.

Are you harmonious or like-minded, seeking to exist in an agreeable state or do you create conflict?

Are you sympathetic, showing compassion to others, or do you easily brush people off when their struggle doesn’t seem like a big deal in your thinking?

Are you kindhearted – sympathetic, considerate, and helpful, or are you judgmental?

Are you humble, looking upon others as worthy, holding others’ above yourself or do you run on the thought that you have it all together?

We should have a general love for all men because they are created in the image of God; we should have a specific love for those who have been adopted into the family of God. You can probably testify to a special connection with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Love, agapaō, is the present active imperative, meaning – do it now and keep on doing it! This is not a onetime ‘I showed love to so and so today’, it is a continuous, frequent showing of care towards one another. It is not based upon feelings or circumstances but rather based on obedience in following God’s commands.

John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

John 15:12 "This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

“Love the brotherhood; as there is general respect due to all men, so there is a special love due to the brethren, to all the saints, of what nation and country soever, of what estate and condition soever, high and low, rich and poor, of what judgment and opinion soever; therefore the apostle calls upon us to love the brotherhood, the whole fraternity and society of Christians, by what unhappy means and characters of reproach soever distinguished: there is no better evidence of the life of grace in ourselves, than the love of grace in another”, William Burkitt New Testament.

Galatians 6:10 So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

How do we love the brotherhood? Follow Christ’s example of loving us. Christ loved with a sacrificial love, looking to the benefit of others rather than Himself. The verses in John chapters 13 and 15 above repeat the phrase, ‘love one another’ ‘as I have loved you’.

Philippians 2:5-8 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Fear God.

Be in awe of Him, give Him reverence. God is love yet He is also a righteous judge, and He will punish sin.

2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Exodus 34:6-7 Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave [the guilty] unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations."

Leviticus 25:17 'So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God.

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Fear of God will lead us to obedience. He is above all things and knows all things. Notice, the king is to be honored but in no way equal to God – God alone is to be feared.

“Fear God; with a filial fear or reverence. This command is interposed, either to show what is the true spring and fountain from which all the duties we perform to men are to proceed, viz. the fear of God, because where that doth not prevail no duty to men can be rightly performed; (they love the brotherhood best, and honour the king most, that truly fear God); or to show the due bounds of all the offices we perform to men, that nothing is to be done for them which is inconsistent with the fear of God”, Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

“Reverence God at all times with the sincerest and profoundest humility; and let a sense of the honour and favour he has conferred upon you increase, rather than diminish, that reverence”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

The command to fear God is also written in the present tense imperative. We are to keep on fearing God, just as we are to keep on honoring men and loving the brotherhood. In all things we are to show God reverence. This means we have a profound respect for Him; we are in awe of who He is, what He has done, what He says, and what He can and will do. God is immutable. His value will never diminish, and His promises will be fulfilled.

Look again at the passage in Exodus 34:6-7.

God is compassionate and gracious,

God is slow to anger, abounding is lovingkindness and truth, and

God forgives sin.

Yet God is righteous and will punish those who reject Him. He will punish those who willfully choose to live against His commands. Our fear of God is not based upon ignorance. Fear based on ignorance is a worldly kind of fear which holds someone in suspense – not knowing what is going to happen next. Instead, fear of God is based upon knowledge of who He is. As a result, and as our understanding of God increases, our reverence of Him increases and our commitment to His commands is strengthened – because we understand His majesty and power and dominion over us. Then we develop grateful hearts for His perfect care and instruction leading to a genuine desire to please Him in all our ways. This is the fear of God. With Him we are blessed; without Him we are doomed.

William Burkitt’s New Testament notes, “live in a religious dread of His name, as a glorious God, and a gracious Father; have a reverential awe and fear of His majesty immovably fixed and implanted in your souls”.

How are your thoughts and actions affected by a proper fear of God?

What must be the first step in fearing God?

Honor the king.

This statement refers back to our study a few weeks ago, 1 Peter 2:13-16. Honor is translated from timao, it is the same word used at the beginning of this scripture, meaning to prize, to fix a valuation upon, to revere. This is different than the honor we show God. We honor God because of who He is; we give honor to those in authority because of the position they hold. It is our duty to value the position of our elected officials, bosses, parents, and so on, as those who have been placed in authority for our benefit. This honor is not based on agreement or personal feelings, it is simply based on the subjection we have to our superiors.

Here is some food for thought, “Pay that respect to the emperor which his high authority requires, knowing that civil power is of God; that the authority with which he, in the course of his providence, has invested him, must be respected in order to its being obeyed; and that if the man be even bad, and as a man be worthy of no reverence, yet he should be respected on account of his office. If respect be banished, subordination will flee with it, and anarchy and ruin will rise up in their place. Truly religious persons are never found in seditions”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

This command in 1 Peter 2, to honor the king, was written specifically to those under the Roman sovereign Nero, who was a murderer and persecutor of Christians. It was necessary for Peter to remind the Christians of their duty to the king. It was difficult to understand why they should honor him when he was against what they believed and even tried to usurp their faith. Even so, these Christians were reminded that they should give honor to the one in position of authority. This command is generally applied to all men and governments today. Remember, the duty to honor governing authority is not based on like or agreement, it is based on the fear of God and obedience in following His instructions. It is the position which is held in high esteem, not the person. Consider if you were to willfully go against the laws of government. What would this say about your reverence to God when He is the One who set up authority? What message would you send to those who are not believers, regarding your respect of duty to man? God has set up the governing laws of man and we are to regard those laws as authority, unless we are specifically told to deny Christ and sin against His commands.

“Honour the king whom God hath set over you, and all the subordinate governors who derive their authority from him; paying obedience to all their just commands, and taking heed that there be nothing rebellious or factious in your behaviour, which would turn to the hurt of society, and bring a reflection upon your holy profession”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

“Honour the King; this duty consists in reverencing their persons, in obeying their lawful commands, in a cheerful payment of their dues, in praying affectionately for them, and in praising God for the blessing of their government. Nero, the worst of kings, and the persecutor of Christians was now on the throne, yet the command is express to honour him.

“And if we consider the words in their connexion and conjunction one with another, fear God, and honour the king, we learn, that religion and the fear of God do best qualify persons to be good subjects, this is the true and steady principle of loyalty; that obedience to governors that is lasting, is for conscience-sake to the command of God: where there is no fear of God in the heart, there will be no regard to the command of God in the life.

“Lastly, these words may be considered, as in their conjunction, so in their order in which they stand; first, fear God, and then honour the king; intimating that the fear of God must be the rule and guide of our subjection unto governors”, William Burkitt New Testament.

The freedom we have in Christ is to be used for His service. We are no longer slaves to sin but slaves to righteousness. Therefore, we are able to choose to act in obedience to the One who purchased our freedom. The preceding verse to our studied text reads, “[Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God”, (1 Peter 2:16).

The commands to honor all men, love the brotherhood, fear God, and honor the king, are all continuous, with the fear of God being above all else. So we honor all men as God’s created beings unless evil is promoted; we honor our family in Christ unless sin is supported; we honor the head of government unless we are asked to sin against God. We are to keep on keeping on in obedience and reverence to God.

Freedom to Submit, Freedom from the Power of Sin, Freedom to Serve

“Believers are the freest of men, but they know the difference between liberty and license. As servants of the Lord, they submit for peace sake to man’s laws, because their Great Lawgiver so commands”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1 Peter 2:13-16

In the previous verses, the Apostle reminded the Christian converts who they were – people of God having received His mercy. As a result of their new identity, they were to abstain from worldly behaviors and pay attention to their pursuit of excellence, even when slandered. The result – all glory to God. Peter now goes on to explain that through excellent behavior, God is honored. The culture surrounding the Christians at that time was engulfed in paganism and idolatry. The government was corrupt, much like we see today. However, the principle of submitting to the authority God has put in place, remains.

1 Peter 2:13-16 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. [Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God.

We are free to submit to Authorities. Consider – without Christ we are slaves to sin, we are incapable of choosing righteousness. Without Christ, the most important person in your life is self. There are individuals who do not have a relationship with Christ who are helpful, considerate, and generous, so it may be difficult to imagine that ‘self’ is involved – but consider, who receives acknowledgement and praise for their good deeds?

Verse 13 begins with the word ‘Submit’. Submission is a choice. The previous verse says we are to keep our behavior excellent and one way to do this is to follow authority. Not because we always agree, not because we cannot think for ourselves, but because we are free to choose to obey God’s commands. Submission without choice is called force; force causes rebellion and God does not force us to follow Him. Instead, we act in obedience because we love Him. So we can choose to submit, even if we think our authorities are not honest, even if we think our ‘rights’ are being stepped on, because we are not under the control of sin and selfishness.

This concept is applicable in many areas. An overriding concern for the past two years has been Covid, and the restrictions placed on society. So let’s address the ‘elephant’ in the room – not based on opinion but based on the truth in God’s word. It seems as if this virus is slowing down a bit yet, it also seems probable that we will face another similar situation in the future. Many individuals are still highly sensitive about their thoughts on Covid. If you want to begin a lively and probable controversial discussion, all you need to do is mention the word Covid. We all have opinions regarding masks, vaccines, boosters, gathering, distancing, and on and on. Many individuals are even eager to give their reasoning why something did or did not work, or what we should have done differently. We all have thoughts and opinions regarding most everything. But in all cases, including this,

Opinion does not matter – obedience to God’s truth does.

Look at the word ‘submit’ in our text. It comes from the Greek word hupotasso meaning to subordinate, to obey, to be under, to subdue, to make subject to, to submit self unto.

Our English definition of submission says it is surrendering power to another, the feeling of patient, submissive humbleness, compliance. To submit to someone is an act of yielding to another’s opinion, it is accepting another’s decision, it is a choice we make. There is a difference between accepting an opinion and agreeing with an opinion.

Accepting is choosing to tolerate without protest; agreement is the harmony of opinions. You can choose to tolerate without protest because you choose to obey and follow Christ.

Look closely at the word following submit in our text – it says, “Submit yourselves”. It does not say, ‘make sure others are submitting’. We are to pay attention to our own actions much more than the actions of others. Personally asking ourselves if we are doing what God would have us do, backing up our behavior with the truth of scripture, is what we are to be concerned about.

We all make decisions, but what are they based upon? What we have heard, what we think, or Truth? Do we need to completely understand in order to submit?

We are to submit ourselves for the Lord’s sake. It is not about you or me. It is about God! God is supreme in authority, He controls all things, He is our master. Therefore, we willingly follow His commands in response to His deity. We are commanded to submit to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right.

The Pharisees tried to trap Jesus when questioning His authority over government.

Matthew 22:17-21 "Tell us therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?" But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, "Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? "Show Me the coin [used] for the poll-tax." And they brought Him a denarius. And He *said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They *said to Him, "Caesar's." Then He *said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; and to God the things that are God's."

Unfortunately, it is easy to recognize failure and corruption in our government. However, this does not mean God has lost control or is unaware of events or has given up. He is using all things for His greater purpose of building His kingdom. There were many concerns ushered in during the Covid era. Some valid, some perhaps not (according to your opinion) – the government is lying to us, the vaccine will change our DNA, it will cause sterility, we don’t even know if the vaccine works, Covid isn’t real, those who are wearing a mask are fearful of death. The questions I would ask you to consider are, ‘Who is more powerful, Who is in control, Who knows all things, Who has a perfect plan’? When did our government and when did man and his intelligence become greater than God? We should not fear death, Covid, or government – we should fear acting in disobedience to God.

God has given man the freedom to choose, however He has not given man power over His Supreme authority.

Romans 13:1-2 Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

Ultimately, who do we trust? If our trust is in God’s perfect plan and His power over all creation, we can follow His commands without question. We do not need to understand in order to obey. God has given man governing authorities. Even heads of government who do not submit to God are under His hand. God can work through all things and all people, even those who deny Him.

God does not need us to run His world, instead He has purposed us to share His truth.

Titus 3:1-2 Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.

Consider how God has worked in your life in the past. Looking back at His faithfulness, you should be able to see His hand directing your path in ways you would have never imagined. Often, the most difficult situations render the sweetest blessings. Throughout all, God is working, just as He has in the past, He will continue His work today and in the future. God has a timeline for each of us – we can neither thwart His plan nor improve upon His plan – it is according to His perfect will for His glory.

Each one of us is individually responsible to obey the governing authorities set before us, “not because man invented it, but because it is proper for men” (1599 Geneva Bible Notes). Government is set for order – to punish those who cause trouble and to protect those who are upright citizens. There will always be imperfections and even corruption in leadership. But we do not want to be the cause of impeding the efforts of authority unless they are directly asking us to deny Christ and sin against Him. Read the next verse of our text:

1Peter 2:15 For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.

We are free to submit because we are free from the power of sin. Believers can choose righteousness – it is God’s will for us. Christ’s death and resurrection has freed us from the control of sin. This means your life should look different than the world. People may act negatively towards you or even slander you, but upon looking closely at your life, there should be no basis for their accusations. The Bible says they are foolish, having no saving knowledge of God.

Titus 2:7-8 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, [with] purity in doctrine, dignified, sound [in] speech which is beyond reproach, in order that the opponent may be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.

Consider the following questions –

Are you acting uprightly and obediently at all times?

Do you give others a reason to accuse you of wrongdoing?

In the early Christian church, those who testified of Christ were targets of false accusations against the authority. It was imperative that if put to trial, the charges would not stand. Integrity and a life of strict adherence and support of the government was the best way to silence foolish charges. In this way God is honored and the opportunity for continuing to witness through words and actions remains.

Say you were called to evangelize in a foreign country where customs were unusual or different for you. You may not agree with dressing a certain way or eating a certain food. You may think some rituals were unnecessary and foolish. However, unless it was an offense to God, you would adhere to the culture in order to secure your audience to hear the truth of the Gospel. You would seek to live in a manner pleasing to those around you in order to build opportunities for speaking about Jesus.

It is possible that for those who have never read the Bible, their first introduction to Christianity may be your lifestyle. This is a sobering truth and responsibility for those who follow Christ. It is imperative to live in a manner which honors Him.

Right where you have been placed is where you belong. And there is a mission field outside your front door, perhaps even within your own home. Rather than get caught up in the restrictions placed on man by government, or become obsessed with exercising your ‘rights’, you can choose to focus on the gift of your salvation and the importance of sharing that gift with those around you.

“In every settled state, and under every form of political government, where the laws are not in opposition to the laws of God, it may be very soundly and rationally said: “Genuine Christians have nothing to do with the laws but to obey them.” Society and civil security are in a most dangerous state when the people take it into their heads that they have a right to remodel and change the laws”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Why obedience to authority? – Because God wills it and commands it. Deciding whether to act in accordance with obedience to authorities is based upon the Truth we find in God’s inerrant word. It is not based upon anything man says or thinks or what we would rather do or not do. It is not based upon ‘what ifs’ or unknowns but is based upon trust in an all-knowing God who perfectly protects His children according to His will for His purpose and His glory. So if God wills us to be obedient to the laws set before us, will He not protect us also? There is no fear in following God’s commands.

Will circumstances always turn out the way we expect? Mostly, no. We are unable to fathom the ways of God. This is where faith must compel us to obey.

After Peter and John healed a lame man, they preached the gospel in the temple. Those in charge were upset because they were proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus. They were put in jail and questioned what power they had to speak of Jesus. Peter answered with a testimony of the Gospel. They were then ordered to stop speaking and teaching in the name of Jesus.

Acts 4:19-20 “But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than to God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking what we have seen and heard.”

Their focus was on the gospel; their loyalty was to God’s commands. The scenario continues as Peter and the apostles teach in Jesus’ name and were again questioned by those in authority.

Acts 5:27-29 And when they had brought them, they stood them before the Council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, "We gave you strict orders not to continue teaching in this name, and behold, you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us." But Peter and the apostles answered and said, "We must obey God rather than men.

When authority demands obedience to laws which are contrary to the commands of God (such as denying Him), we obey God rather than men. However, when there is no offense to God’s commands, we are to follow the authority given us through government – whether we like it or not and whether we agree or not. For instance, I do not like paying the exorbitant amount of taxes our government requests. But it is required and hedging around my responsibility would impede my witness of Truth. We could all question the value of many government policies. Yet, we have a duty to follow those in charge – because it honors God. And, we cannot pick and choose which policies we will obey according to our agreement or comfort, or according to popularity or even what we deem our personal ‘rights’.

If our allegiance is to God, then how do we determine our obligation to earthly leadership?

Albert Barnes New Testament Commentary states, “When the laws interfered with the rights of conscience; when they commanded the worship of idols, or any moral wrong, then it was their duty to refuse submission. Yet, in what cases this was to be done, where the line was to be drawn, was a question of deep importance, and one which was not easily settled. It is quite probable, however, that the main danger was, that the early Christians would err in refusing submission, even when it was proper, rather than in undue conformity to idolatrous rites and ceremonies”. “The principles on which Christians should act are settled in this chapter. Be subject. Submit. The word denotes that kind of submission which soldiers render to their officers. It implies subordination; a willingness to occupy our proper place, to yield to the authority of those over us … The general principle will be seen to be, that we are to obey in all things which are not contrary to the law of God”.

If you trust that God is Supreme and in control of all things, then you agree that God has appointed the leaders in our government and things are progressing exactly as planned. In response, we exercise our freedom to submit to the rules set before us and honor God by following those He has allowed to be in charge.

Daniel 2:21 "And it is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men, and knowledge to men of understanding.

“The truth is, the substance of the power of every magistrate is the ordinance of God”, Bp. Sanderson.

Read this quote regarding submission, “Its use in the New Testament, then, as far as human relationships in the redeemed community are concerned yields the idea of humble, informed submission to another in the light of God's will and redemptive work. That kind of submission is to happen in all relationships in life”, bible.org

The bottom line – we submit ourselves to the governing authorities appointed over us out of obedience to God who has set them in place. This brings honor to God. Read Matthew Henry’s Commentary on this subject, “For the Lord’s sake, who had ordained magistracy for the good of mankind, who has required obedience and submission (Romans 13), and whose honour is concerned in the dutiful behavior of subjects to their sovereigns”.

1Peter 2:16 [Act] as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but [use it] as bondslaves of God.

The freedom we have in Christ does not mean we are free from the duty or subjection we have to governing authorities – which has been set in place by God. Christianity is not an excuse to neglect following the laws of our government. We are servants of God, acting in accordance with His commands. We obey human law because it is God’s will for us.

“True religion is always the friend of order, as well as of liberty. The gospel is no doctrine of anarchy, and the Christian is no formenter of strife. Civil government is necessary for the well-being of mankind, and those who delight in the law of the Lord are among the last to wish to see its power weakened, or its executive despised. We had sooner suffer wrong, than see our country the prey of lawless mobs”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

1Corinthians 7:22 For he who was called in the Lord while a slave, is the Lord's freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ's slave.

Romans 6:18 and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only [do] not [turn] your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Can we be free yet still live under the constraints of governing authorities who do not follow God?

John 8:31-36 Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in My word, [then] you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." They answered Him, "We are Abraham's offspring, and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, 'You shall become free'?" Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. "And the slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever. "If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.

“As free; he prevents an objection; they might pretend they were a free people, as Jews, and therefore were not to obey strangers; and made free by Christ. He answers: That they were free indeed, but it was from sin, and not from righteousness, not from obedience to God's law, which requires subjection to magistrates, for they were still the servants of God”, Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

We have complete freedom in Christ. When we are free from seeking self and free from the bondage of sin, then we are free to serve God whole heartedly with our lives. We are blessed to live in a country whose government allows the practice of our faith. But we are not to abuse our freedom. We are not free to use ‘religion’ as a right to stand against those in authority to support what we think is best.

We are to submit to authority for the Lord’s sake.

It is commanded. Jesus’ example was to submit to governing authority. When we submit, we bring glory to God. It is His will for us to submit.

We have freedom in Christ.

Through Him we are no longer slaves of sin. We are free to choose righteousness; free to follow God’s commands in obedience and submission which brings glory to His name. We are free to live our lives serving God.

Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

God’s Own Possession

If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you are God’s possession, you are chosen, you are holy.

In our last study in 1 Peter 2:8, Eternal Treasure, we learned that those who are disobedient to the word are appointed to doom – the certain penalty of failure; they will stumble over the Gospel. Consider if you are walking towards a large tree. In your mind you can choose to say, ‘I do not want that tree to be there, it is inconvenient and, in my way’, however as you get closer you will either need to step around it or walk into it. Just because you have chosen to ignore its placement does not change its existence. We can choose to ignore God’s existence however this will not change His righteous judgement. In verse 9, the Apostle encourages the believers who were following Jesus, offering encouragement to them.

1Peter 2:9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR [God's] OWN POSSESSION, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

The word ‘but’ is a continuation and in contrast of the preceding thought. It is like saying, ‘However, you (those who believe) are unlike those who stumble and are appointed to doom, instead you are ‘a chosen race’, a ‘royal priesthood’, a holy nation, ‘a people for [God’s] own possession’. There is a distinct difference from those who willfully rejected Jesus as their Corner Stone and those who call Him Lord.

The Apostle quotes the Old Testament in his descriptions of the believers being addressed. These titles were given to the Jewish nation. They are now the privilege of all those belonging to God, seeking to follow His ways.

Exodus 19:5 'Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine;

Deuteronomy 7:6 "For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.

Deuteronomy 14:2 "For you are a holy people to the LORD your God; and the LORD has chosen you to be a people for His own possession out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.

A Chosen Race – a select, favorite, elect generation. “The titles formerly given to the whole Jewish Church, i.e. To all the Israelites without exception, all who were in the covenant of God by circumcision, whether they were holy persons or not, are here given to Christians in general in the same way; i.e. to all who believed in Christ, whether Jews or Gentiles, and who received baptism in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Isaiah 43:21 "The people whom I formed for Myself, Will declare My praise.

“A chosen generation; a people chosen of God, not only out of the world, but from among the rest of your own nation and not only to an external adoption, and outward privileges, but to eternal salvation”, Matthew Poole’s Commentary.

1Corinthians 6:19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom He has chosen for His own inheritance.

If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you are God’s possession, you are chosen, you are holy. How do these descriptions of your life encourage you?

When something is purchased, most often it comes with instructions. We come with instructions from our Maker. We are chosen for a purpose, to spread the Gospel – Matthew 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Do you purpose to know the instructions given you by God?

Do you regularly access your instruction manual – the Bible?

How do you react when something wonderful happens in your life?

Do those around you know that you consider the claim of Christ wonderful, that this is a blessing you treasure?

A royal priesthood – kingly in nature, a sacred order. The Hebrew definition of priesthood is described as the priestly fraternity. A fraternity is a group of people engaged in the same occupation or activity. WordWeb says it is friendship and mutual support within a group of people. Christians belong to the family of God and have fellowship with one another, spurring each individual to the forward movement of their faith.

Exodus 19:6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel."

Revelation 1:6 and He has made us [to be] a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him [be] the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

The Jewish priests were called to offer sacrifices to God. Now this special calling extends to all who believe. The Jewish nation placed great importance on their blood relations yet through Christ’s shed blood, we are all born into His kingdom.

1Peter 2:5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

God is King, and those who belong to Him are of royal heritage. In this sense, those who claim Christ as Savior are priests, daily offering up spiritual sacrifices of love and devotion, service, and gratefulness. The WordWeb definition of priesthood is described as friendship and mutual support within a group of people. We call this fellowship. Why is it important to be involved in a family of believers?

“But you, on the contrary, who unfeignedly believe in him, {are} a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, who bear at once the dignity of kings and sanctity of priest: a holy nation, set apart in a special manner for the service of God; and a peculiar people. When these titles were given to Israel of old, it was in an inferior sense; and it is in a much nobler signification that these words may be applied to you. Consider it therefore as the wise intention of Divine Providence, that you should declare and proclaim all abroad, the virtues of him who has called you out of that darkness in which you originally were, into his marvelous and glorious light; that clear light of the gospel, which opens so many illustrious scenes of divine wonders”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

In Christ we are victorious, in Christ we have a royal heritage, in Christ we have a future inheritance. The book of Revelation speaks to our position in heaven.

Revelation 5:10 "And Thou hast made them [to be] a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth."

Consider for a moment the encouraging words from the Apostle to the Jews and Gentiles who had converted to Christianity. They were reminded that they were specifically chosen to serve; that they were as priests offering spiritual sacrifices to God and would one day reign with Him!

A holy nation – holy, meaning sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless, consecrated, saint). Those called by Christ are set apart as a people to worship and serve the one true God. In Christ’s death we are justified; through obedience to the Gospel we are being sanctified. This contrasts with the outward appearance of holiness made through sacrifices under the Law, rather it is a holiness from within. It is the work of Christ in an individual’s heart which affords this privilege to those who follow Him in obedience.

1Peter 1:22-23 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, [that is,] through the living and abiding word of God.

Barnes’ NT Commentary says, “The Hebrews were regarded as a nation consecrated to God; and now that they were cast off or rejected for their disobedience, the same language was properly applied to the people whom God had chosen in their place – the Christian church”.

“As a family, let us remember how the Lord has favored us in his grace, and let each saved one among us remember whereunto he is called. Chosen, royal priestly, peculiar, and beloved of heaven, --what manner of persons ought we to be? We ought to be far better than others, for the Lord has dealt so much better with us. May rich grace rest upon us, and cause us to show forth the praises of our God”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.

We are called to be holy. In Christ, we can fight the strong arm of sin. We are not like the world, enslaved to the power of sin. Instead we are given victory over sin’s control. In all of Paul’s epistles, Christians are called saints derived from the same Greek word, hagios, for holy.

Do you strive to live in the likeness of Christ? What does this look like? How do you fight sin?

How is your life a witness of His Truth?

A people for [God’s] own possession – Or in the KJV, a peculiar people. We are purchased by the blood of Christ for a purpose; we are a people belonging to God for His use, for His glory. There is action implied in this thought. God’s own should be peculiar, markedly different from the world around them.

Look again at Deuteronomy 7:6 and 14:2.

Titus 2:14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.

Do others notice you are a bit different in your conversation, your actions, and your use of time? Or do you blend in well with the world around you?

Is your service to others and your church family a priority? How?

We have been called from darkness into His glorious light – describe what this means specifically to you. Are your concerns laid at the foot of the cross or do they threaten to overwhelm you?

We are purchased for God’s purpose. Read Paul’s words to the elders at Ephesus just before he departed for Jerusalem –

Acts 20:24 "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.

Acts 20:28 "Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.

Acts 20:35 "In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

According to the above verses, what was Paul’s focus?

“Christians are appointed to show forth the praises of the Lord, by their spiritual worship, their open profession of his gospel, their holy conversation, and exemplary conduct. To this the apostle exhorted his brethren. The Lord had called many of them out of the total darkness of Pagan idolatry; and the rest, from the comparative darkness of the Mosaic dispensation and Jewish formality, into the clear light of the gospel, to behold the marvelous displays thus given of the divine glory, and to partake of his astonishing love to sinners. This he had done, in order that they might be his witnesses and worshippers, to render him the glory due to his name, and to “show forth his praises,” or to declare his virtues, or energies, even the efficacy of his grace, in their holy tempers and actions. They had formerly been a people of no name or excellency; but they were now become “the people of God,” and had obtained that mercy for the pardon of their sins, and the salvation of their souls, to which they once were strangers”, Thomas Scott.

Our next study will address the remainder of 1 Peter 2:9 as we look at the expected result and privileges of being called by God.

Eternal Treasure

Jesus is the only secure corner stone on which all else will last. Either Christ is your foundation or your rejection of Him will be your downfall.

In choosing unbelief towards the Gospel, we choose for ourselves a stumbling block and eternal destruction. Have you ever watched a child insistent on doing things the most difficult way possible? When asked if they would like help, the response is ‘no, I can do it by myself’. This typically leads to an enormous amount of frustration.

Consider what happens when individuals ‘walk away’ from Jesus and reject His gift. They crumble, they continuously ‘trip’ over the world’s ideals and answers as they constantly try to find direction that will satisfy. Life becomes a perpetual journey trying to find fulfillment. Attaining each goal only serves to point to the next bigger and better one. Satisfaction or success in the world is temporary at its best.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also”, Matthew 6:19-21.

Luke 12:16-21 And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a certain rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. ‘And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years [to come;] take your ease, eat, drink [and] be merry.”’ "But God said to him, 'You fool! This [very] night your soul is required of you; and [now] who will own what you have prepared?' "So is the man who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."

True peace and fulfillment are only found in Christ. John 14:6 Jesus *said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.

1 Peter 2:7 This precious value, then, is for you who believe. But for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER [stone,]" 8 and, “A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE"; for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this [doom] they were also appointed.

I posted a study on 1 Peter 2:7 a few weeks ago, “A Cornerstone of the Highest Value”. This study included information on the importance of the corner stone of a building. What was its purpose? How was the building affected if the corner stone was not straight and solid?

Years ago, my husband and older brothers decided to help my youngest brother finish a stone wall on his ranch. They knew when they started this project, they were working off a foundation which was not the best. However, in their haste to complete the wall they continued laying stone blocks trying and hoping to make something reasonably straight at the finish. You can imagine how it turned out – a bit haphazard and something they laugh about now.

Rejecting Jesus as our Corner Stone is no laughing matter. Our text says the very Corner Stone of our salvation becomes a stone of stumbling and rock of offense to those who refuse Him. Following are warnings to those who reject Jesus.

John 3:36 "He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."

Romans 2:8-10 but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation. [There will be] tribulation and distress for every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek, but glory and honor and peace to every man who does good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Hebrews 3:18-19 And to whom did He swear that they should not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? And [so] we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief.

Look closer at what ‘a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense’ means:

Stumbling - <proskomma>, a stub, the occasion of apostasy; offence

Offence - <skandalon>, a trap-stick (bent sapling), snare, thing that offends

Picture tripping over something that sticks out. You stumble because you were not paying attention to where you were going! Sometimes it may be because you are in a hurry, or you may be focused on things other than the path you are walking. The Jewish nation in Peter’s time was offended by the gospel, they had tradition set in place, they followed their laws of dos and don’ts. Jesus was not the answer they were looking for; He was a stumbling block, and many were unwilling to accept Him.

Where is your focus? Is it on Truth?

Isaiah 8:14-15 "Then He shall become a sanctuary; but to both the houses of Israel, a stone to strike and a rock to stumble over, [and] a snare and a trap for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. "And many will stumble over them, then they will fall and be broken; they will even be snared and caught."

Are people offended by the Gospel today? Matthew Poole’s Commentary says Jesus is not the cause of stumbling but the object of it, They find in Him that which they do not like, “the holiness of His law, and purity of His doctrine, contrary to their corruptions and lusts, and especially His requiring of them faith in Him for the justification of their persons, which was [is] so contrary to the pride of their hearts, …, seeking to establish their own righteousness, and therefore not submitting to the righteousness of God”.

Romans 9:32 Why? Because [they did] not [pursue it] by faith, but as though [it were] by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone,

Are you pursuing Christ in faith or by works?

The very One who has been rejected by men, is the means to salvation. Jesus is the only secure corner stone on which all else will last. Either Christ is your foundation or your rejection of Him will be your downfall. This is more than just a slap on the wrist, or a careless error that can be corrected. Willful disobedience to the word leads to appointed doom. Our text says, ‘they are disobedient to the word, and to this [doom] they were also appointed’.

There is a price to pay for choosing a life of disobedience and rejection of God. For those Jews and Gentiles who trusted Christ as their Messiah, even though they were persecuted for their belief, their salvation was secure. For those who rejected Christ, their judgment was appointed. This truth is the same today for everyone.

Consider the general population. Most are accepting of blessings – they may even attribute some things to God. The tune of “Amazing Grace” was played at memorials commemorating the 20th anniversary of 9-1-1 several days ago. People want God’s protection, the peace He affords, and the comfort of knowing there is a higher being. Especially when something does not make sense and great loss is involved. What they do not want is to live in obedience to the very One who blesses them. They do not like the idea that the God who gives eternal life and hope also judges with eternal destruction. They want to reap the benefits of a perfect and holy God on their terms. Seeking all the pleasures and importance of the world does not align with seeking holiness for God’s glory. The one promotes self, the other denies self and glorifies God.

John 3:18-21 "He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. "And this is the judgment, that the light is come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the light; for their deeds were evil. "For everyone who does evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. "But he who practices the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God."

Those who reject Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection as God’s perfect plan and way for salvation, are given over to sin, allowed to sink down into the depths of life without Christ. God let the nation of Israel wander and suffer because they rejected Him and ‘did it their way’. The word doom is used in my translation. To be doomed is a pronounced sentence of certain failure or destruction.

“Their disobedience is not ordained, the penalty of their disobedience is”, (Bigg). They rebelled against God and paid the penalty”, Robertson’s NT Word Pictures.

Our immediate reaction may be to think it seems ‘unfair’ to be appointed to doom. Some may respond by saying this whole ‘God-thing’ does not matter and they are unaffected. But choosing to not believe does not cancel God’s existence and authority over all things. We are unable to fully comprehend the mind and perfect judgment of God. I certainly cannot explain why some are appointed to doom. I definitely do understand that it is only an act of God’s grace in my own life which has saved me. I understand the consequences of acceptance or rejection of Truth. My heart is moved in humility toward gratefulness that somehow God has allowed me to see my desperate need of His grace and mercy. I pray you are able to proclaim your gratefulness to God’s gift of salvation also.

“First in place and importance is the thought that a spiritual fact like election, which belongs to the innermost purpose and work of the Eternal, necessarily leads us to a region where comprehension is impossible, and where we can only reverently apprehend. The doctrine passes upward to the sphere where antinomies live and move, where we must be content to hear what sound to us contradictions, but which are really various aspects of infinite truth. Let us be content to know that the Divine choice is sovereign; and also that "his tender mercies are over all his works," that `He willeth not the death of a sinner,' that "God is love." Let us relieve the tension of such submissive reliance by reverently noting how the supreme antinomy meets one type of human need with its one side, and with its other another. To the "fearful saint" the Divine sovereignty of love is a sacred cordial. To the seeking penitent the Divine comprehensiveness of love opens the door of peace. To the deluded theorist who does not love and obey, the warnings of a fall and ruin which are possible, humanly, from any spiritual height, are a merciful beacon on the rocks”, www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/election.

The mind of God is something to which we cannot attain.

Isaiah 55:9 "For [as] the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

Job 38:4-7 "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell [Me,] if you have understanding, who set its measurements, since you know? Or who stretched the line on it? "On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

His Majesty is far above our comprehension and His Divine will and plan is humbling to the lowly saints who are called. Consider your own position in Christ. If you can attest to His power in changing your life for eternity, it is because of His love and mercy; it is only by His grace that you claim Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Peter, in his letters, urges the believers to focus on what they do have rather than the difficulties they are facing. We can do the same. Look at the truths in this familiar verse –

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

God loves us. He gave us Jesus so that we would not die but have eternal life.

Return to 1 Peter 2:7-8, This precious value, then, is for you who believe. But for those who disbelieve, "THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED, THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER [stone,]” and, "A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE"; for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this [doom] they were also appointed.

What is your response? How are you purposed to action?

What example can you follow? What sin can you avoid? What promise can you claim?

God chose Israel to be His people, but they refused to listen. In Jeremiah 13, God tells Jeremiah of the destruction which will come upon Israel because of their disobedience. This is his call to the nation to repent in humility before God, “Listen and give heed, do not be haughty, for the LORD has spoken. Give glory to the LORD your God, before He brings darkness and before your feet stumble on the dusky mountains, and while you are hoping for light He makes it into deep darkness, [and] turns [it] into gloom, v. 15-16. This is a weighty section of scripture yet a reminder to all that God’s perfect love also includes God’s perfect judgment. There is an intense need to respond to the Gospel now, tomorrow may be too late.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary says, “The lost shall lay all the blame of their ruin on their own sinful perversity, not on God’s decree; the saved shall ascribe all the merit of their salvation to God’s electing love and grace”.

Christ is not the cause of stumbling but the object of it as men give way to their own depravity. The Christians being addressed by Peter were in danger of turning back to a system of works rather than faith because they were alienated, ridiculed, and persecuted. Jesus gave His life as the ultimate sacrifice for mankind, choosing to suffer beyond what is conceivable, to save an undeserving mankind. The difficulties we may face in our choice to follow Christ are minor compared to the eternal future promised to those who persevere.

There is an inherent urgency to share the Gospel because there is severe consequence in rejecting God.

Fervent Love

There is no distinction in our need of a Savior. We are all saved through the blood shed of Jesus Christ. No matter who we are, what we have done or where we have come from, our destruction is imminent without God’s act of great love for mankind.

1Peter 1:22 Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart,

First, the assumption for those being addressed is they have acted in obedience to the truth. This means they have heard the gospel, have acted in faith through the work of the Holy Spirit, and are in the process of sanctification, learning to be more like Jesus.

The readers of Peter’s letter have developed a sincere kindness and affection towards those who are of the same mind – the ‘one anothers.’ This love is intentional and pure. The KJV says, “love one another with a pure heart fervently”.

Obedience begins in a heart yielded to God’s commands. We hear His truth, we understand His truth, then we act upon His truth in obedience. These actions look different than the world’s actions. And they result in love for one another. There is a recognition we are all in this together, seeking to walk a path honoring to God.

Because obedience to truth is essential, we are challenged to consider our own response to the Gospel.

How has God, through the work of His Holy Spirit, manifested His love in your heart?
Have you yielded to His commands; are you striving to follow God in all circumstances?

Obedience involves action and it may not always be what we would choose. Consider this example – you offer your help to someone, and they willingly accept. This alone may take us by surprise because we can easily say words which sound good but have no sincere meaning. Sometime what someone needs is a bit more time consuming or difficult than what you anticipated.

We might love one another the way we think we should, when it fits into our schedule or comfort, but what about loving one another the way God tells us to? It takes effort to obey the truth. Our response often is to watch out for self first or to act based upon our feelings. We have a built-in protection mechanism of survival and preservation. However, when we recognize that our true value is in Christ, a heart of humility softens our selfishness. This means you will be pleased to sit and talk with someone – even if they say the same thing over and over – and you will be pleased to scrub a floor for someone – even when your own floor needs attention. You will be pleased to spend time with those who are ‘difficult’ and those who are ‘easy’. Yielding to God will result in a genuine sacrificial love for one another.

Try consistently praying for your own heart towards those whom you have a ‘difficult’ relationship. For myself, God is always faithful to change my heart and attitude towards individuals, even to the point of feeling genuine care and concern. This truly is remarkable when you realize God has replaced animosity with care having fixed your own problems. This is only from the work of the Holy Spirit and is a testimony of your salvation.

The KJV uses the word unfeigned in 1 Peter 1:22. Its meaning is ‘without hypocrisy’ or ‘without dissimulation’. There is no deceit or ‘hidden’ agenda for self-gain in this type of love, only a sincere desire to see another’s best interest.

Consider our greatest example of love. Read Paul’s words to the church at Thessalonica, “Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for [anyone] to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another”, 1 Thessalonians 4:9.

Sincere love is genuine. It is honest. It does not seek to give a false impression. It must come from the heart before resulting in action. Otherwise it is a façade. Picture a historic mining town. There are several you can visit in California, and some have preserved their history well. Many of them have a similar look with the center of town lined with buildings where all mercantile transactions took place. The fronts of these stores look very detailed and have exquisite framing and fretwork. It is obvious that skilled carpenters put their creative thoughts into making each building look unique. However, if you walk around to the back of these buildings, what you see is that each is roughly the same – a square or rectangle shape with a façade on the front. Sincere love does not act so that others might see, it acts so that others might be blessed.

What do we learn about love from God?

John 15:13 "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Philippians 2:5-8

Ephesians 5:2 and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.

Love is sacrificial. Sincere love for one another does not differentiate between background, race, appearance, social status, accomplishments, or anything that might set us apart in the world. It does not judge an individual who thinks different than yourself. Sincere love is possible because a believer recognizes that each person has the singular need of God’s redeeming love which is available only through the sacrificial offering of His Son. There is no distinction in our need of a Savior. We are all saved through the blood shed of Jesus Christ. No matter who we are, what we have done or where we have come from, our destruction is imminent without God’s act of great love for mankind. We are destined to wrath if we do not accept His free gift of salvation through Jesus.

Take the wealthiest, the poorest, the highly-educated, the non-educated, the largest, or the smallest – the Gospel is the same for everyone and it is received in the same manner for everyone, by humbly admitting the need for a Savior and accepting Jesus’ death and resurrection as a gift from God. Truly, not one individual is better than another or has more importance when all are bowed at the foot of the cross.

Consider what it requires to prefer another above self.

Perhaps even when you are tired and feel you have nothing else to give, you may need to stretch and give just a bit more.
Preferring others above self may mean setting aside your schedule for someone’s need at that moment.

Think about your willingness to forego ‘your time’ to respond to a request for help. Are you willing to sacrifice your comfort to serve others? Practically speaking, many of the things I might need to get done will wait without much consequence. We need to be willing to give up our own interests, our rest, and our comfort, to help another. While we may not be able to ‘be there’ for everyone, we do not want to miss the opportunities that are placed before us.

Do you sincerely love your brothers and sisters in Christ, preferring their needs above your own?

1Peter 4:8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.

1John 4:21 And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.

Hearing, understanding, and responding to Truth produces faith which leads to repentance resulting in a soul purified, yielded in obedience and characterized by a sincere love for fellow believers. The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary says, “Love to the brethren is the evidence of our regeneration and justification by faith”.

We are to ‘fervently’ love one another from the heart. This is intentional love, characterized by purpose and willingness to labor for one another; having a strong and tender affection for one another. Perhaps one of the greatest proofs of God’s work upon a heart is the love and kindness shown toward another. Those individuals Peter addressed had been following the world in their deeds and desires. Their repentance and trust in Christ should have turned them from selfishness to service. Peter challenged them in their obedience to the truth, to love one another fervently.

Fervently means we intentionally love one another. Our love is purposed, more than just talk, but accompanied by action. Love takes the time to consider what would encourage someone and then it follows through with a plan. Intention with no action has no value. Sincere love has a heart that desires to see others prosper. Love takes sacrifice and selflessness.

We are only able to love from the heart sincerely and fervently because of our relationship with Jesus.

Seek Holiness

As God grows us in His likeness, we are less and less garbed in the world as the righteousness imputed to us through Christ becomes more evident in our character.

Obedience. 1. The act of obeying; dutiful or submissive behavior with respect to another person. 2. The trait of being willing to obey. 3. Behavior intended to please your parents. (WordWeb)

A synonym used for obedience is respect. When we consider showing respect towards someone or something, it is because we honor them, we have an attitude of admiration or esteem. When we honor or esteem someone, we want to please them, we want to do a good job, to perform well.

1Peter 1:14-16 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior; because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY."

The address is to obedient children. Obedient <hupakoe> attentive hearkening, i.e. (by implication) compliance or submission. Consider, if you have accepted God’s gift of salvation, you are His child. Therefore, you are to be obedient. You are to hold your own personal desires and thoughts low, as being unimportant, and esteem God’s direction and commands as having higher value. The idea of submission is putting another’s authority and decisions in front of your own, respecting their knowledge and understanding as superior.

Contemplate this thought for a moment – ‘respecting their knowledge and understanding as superior’.

What does it require from you to respect another individual’s knowledge and understanding as superior?

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Ro 12:3 For through the grace given to me I say to every man among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.

Philippians 2:5-8

God knows and understands all things.

Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite.

Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.

Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!

The motivation to obey as God’s children is to please Him as our Father. Obedience honors God’s name.

Following the description of who we are to be now - obedient children, is an explanation of who we once were before God took hold of our heart and turned our eyes to His truths. We were conformed to lust in our ignorance. We followed the same pattern as the world, longing for what is forbidden. Perhaps those who were saved later in life have a more well-defined picture of their ignorance in following the world. But even if you have been a believer since childhood, the struggle with sin is real and understanding its grip on the human heart is not difficult.

Consider how you have changed in your thinking and actions, and desires and pursuits, since Christ took hold of your life. For example, what I once thought was not so bad, I now see as directly opposed to God. And the things I desired were very self-centered and prideful. I would not have even understood that there was a problem in following the world – this was the acceptable standard. Comparing myself to the world’s standard, I thought I was fairly good. Look at the fallacy in this thinking.

First, when we compare ourselves to other individuals, we always come out on top because there is always someone in our own estimation that is worse off or did not do something as well as we did. We do not tend to look at the millions who have excelled over and above our own efforts.

Second, in order to make a true comparison of anything, the entire picture is needed, from the very worst to perfection. We are unable to comprehend either scenario. However, what we do know as God’s obedient children is that we are to strive towards God’s standard of holiness. Think of the following questions.

How well do you fit in the world?
Do your unsaved friends influence you, or do you influence them?
Do you act differently with one group of people than another?
What things might tempt you to try and ‘fit in’?

A word of caution. Being diligent with our own behavior does not mean we tell everyone else how they are to be acting or what they are doing wrong! It is God’s work in a heart that changes people. Yet, we are to be good examples, different from the world around us.

1 Peter 1:14 says we used to be ignorant regarding our behavior. To be ignorant is to be without information or intelligence, without understanding or knowledge. This is a description of who we were without Christ. The decisions we made were without full information, without the complete understanding of who we are and our desperate need for a Savior. We were entrenched in sin without even realizing we had a problem. Consider how well you are able to make good decisions when you have a significant piece of information missing. Try booking a flight without knowing the times you want to leave and arrive, or without having a destination in mind. Your plans will probably turn out haphazard at best. This is like shooting an arrow in the dark hoping you hit the target. This is the best we have without Christ. In fact, we are so heavily pulled into the things of this world that we do not even recognize the danger. – Until God opens His children’s eyes to His Truths. God’s children no longer conform to sin out of ignorance, instead they are characterized by obedience.

Obedience to God demands that we do not follow worldly ways. Instead, we are to live holy in all our behavior (v. 15-16).

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

1Peter 4:1-2 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;

What does it mean to be holy?

We are to be physically and morally blameless. We are to strive to be like Jesus. This is only possible through His redemption of our soul. God is holy, He is perfect and pure. He is the One who called your name as His child. He is the one who has called you into understanding and faith in Christ. As His child, receiving all the benefits of His salvation, you also receive the means to be like Him, to imitate His character.

When we say we think we are not strong enough, this is true. However, God is omnipotent. When we say we cannot, we do not understand God’s power. Do we easily give up when we are fighting sin? It is sometimes much easier to concentrate on what everyone else is doing wrong. Almost every social media venue is built on complaints, disagreement with another, justification of self, and individuals sharing their opinions of why we should or should not do something. Is this the behavior that seeks to follow Christ in humility and obedience?

How much time and effort do you put into thinking of what others should or should not be doing? Is there any value in this? At best, this is self-serving.

It is impossible for us to be perfectly holy, yet we are to endeavor to follow the pattern set before us and practice holiness in every area of our life. We are holy because we belong to God; our actions should increasingly speak of our inward salvation. Our thoughts should be held captive by Truth, and our words should honor God. As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.

2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Notice the word all again in verse 15. All means everything, it is inclusive to your whole behavior. Matthew Poole’s Commentary has this explanation of all, “with whomsoever ye converse, believers or infidels, friends or enemies, relations or stranger; and in whatsoever condition ye are in, peace or trouble, prosperity or adversity”.

The word ‘all’ negates any exception to holiness. This means we never have a reason to act unholy. Consider these phrases that may enter into your thoughts –

“This makes me so mad, therefore …”

“It is unfair…”

“I have waited long enough…”

“It happens all the time…”

“I am tired…”

“No one cares…”

“You do not understand…”.

You will probably be able to think of many more instances where we allow ourselves to justify behavior that is unbecoming to a Christian. We do better if we are willing to point the finger at ourselves rather than someone else. Regardless of any outside circumstance, God’s children are to be obedient to His word.

How are you seeking holiness?

Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

1Thessalonians 2:10-12 You are witnesses, and [so is] God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly we behaved toward you believers; just as you know how we [were] exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father [would] his own children, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

1Thessalonians 4:7 For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification.

Philippians 2:12-16 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.

Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.

God’s command to the Israelites was to be holy. This command stands true to His children everywhere. Conclusion: Do not continue in the sin that once held you captive, instead seek holiness because your Father is holy, and he commands His children to be holy.

Think again how society copies their behavior and appearance after the things they follow. Do you imitate the God you worship? We are to put on holiness and put off sin. Both garments cannot be worn at the same time. As God grows us in His likeness, we are less and less garbed in the world as the righteousness imputed to us through Christ becomes more evident in our character.

Inexpressible Joy

By faith we love who He is, what He has done. We rejoice in the truths we know. The love we have for God is incomparable to any love we might experience in our human relationships. It is perfect and secure.

We have been saved to obedience. In Christ, we have grace, peace, mercy, a living hope, an inheritance, and protection. Because of these truths we can rejoice through trials. Through trials we have opportunities for our faith to be proven. We have a faith more precious than gold, a faith which will result in glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. In 1 Peter 1:8, we will see that this understanding and knowledge of our faith produces joy.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Because –

Joy is found in faith (v.8)

1Peter 1:8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,

You have not seen Him
You love Him
You believe in Him
You greatly rejoice

What is faith?

John 20:29 Jesus *said to him, "Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed [are] they who did not see, and [yet] believed."

Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of [things] hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Faith is commanded. 1 John 3:23

Faith is believing in something or someone without seeing. Believing is more than hoping or thinking. It is confident expectation. Read the beginning of 1 Peter 1:8 again, “and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him”, these words define faith in Christ. Peter was writing to those who had not seen Christ in the flesh. Yet, they “loved Him as strongly as any of His disciples could, to whom He was personally known”, (quote from Adam Clarke’s Commentary).

Read of the faith of Abraham in Romans 4:18-21.

As a true believer, the faith you have in Jesus is the same faith exercised by those thousands of years ago. It is the same faith as those who had walked and talked with Him. Saving faith places full trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ. There is room for no one else and nothing else. It is not the compilation of trusting and believing in many entities and hoping one of them is right; it is the single conviction of Jesus as Lord and Savior. This faith is directly a work of God on the heart, it is unexplained and only given by the power and choice of God. Those who have it rejoice in its truth.

1 John 4:19 We love, because He first loved us.

What does it mean to love God?

Matthew 10:37; Matthew 25:35-40; John 8:42; John 14:15,21; 1 Corinthians 16:22

John 15:16 "You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives this insight – “Faith is the subsistence of things hoped for … the demonstration of things not seen … substance becomes a foundation for another thing to stand on … such are the effects of justifying faith: on it subsists the peace of God which passeth all understanding”,

2Corinthians 5:7 for we walk by faith, not by sight—

What does it mean to hope for something?

According to WordWeb, hope is the general feeling that some desire will be fulfilled. Hope for the future is certain when placed at the cross of Christ. “Things hoped for are the peace and approbation of God, and those blessings by which the soul is prepared for the kingdom of heaven. A penitent hopes for the pardon of his sins and the favour of his God; faith in Christ puts him in possession of this pardon, and thus the thing that was hoped for is enjoyed by faith. When this is received, a man has the fullest conviction of the truth and reality of all these blessings though unseen by the eye, they are felt by the heart, and the man has no more doubt of God’s approbation and his own free pardon, than he has of his being”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

We have an absolute hope, a certain hope – this is what it means to believe. Like you and I, the Christians to whom Peter was writing had never seen Jesus. Yet by faith they were able to believe. The foundation of our faith is the same, Christ is unchanging, His work on the cross is for all who believe. Verse 8 says “though you have not seen Him, you love Him”. Consider the ability to love what we have not seen with our eyes. The first thing that comes to my mind is loving a child you have not seen. We experience a heartfelt love for the children we carry. When I found out my grown children were expecting babies, there was an immediate love in my heart for my grandchildren though yet unseen. Barnes’ Notes says these scattered Christians “had heard of His character, His preaching, His sacrifice for sin, and His resurrection and ascension, and they had learned to love Him”.

We have a true, historical, and clear account of our Savior’s birth, life, death, and resurrection, in God’s word. By faith we love who He is, what He has done. We rejoice in the truths we know. The love we have for God is incomparable to any love we might experience in our human relationships. It is perfect and secure. Consider what God has done for you!

He sent His only Son to redeem your soul from eternal damnation.
He is preparing heaven for His children whom He will one day gather to Himself.
He provides protection, guidance, strength, encouragement, hope, and purpose on earth.
He constantly pours blessings upon His children, even though they are undeserving, and even amidst their failures.

What is the result of grace which leads to faith in Christ?

You greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.

To greatly rejoice literally means to jump for joy! It means to be exceedingly glad, to be exultant. It is joy based upon the triumph of Christ’s resurrection and power over sin and death. This joy is so much more than happiness. It is rejoicing in the knowledge of who Christ is and the future that awaits those who believe. The result of true saving faith is joy; a joy that will manifest itself even in the most difficult and trying times.

Psalm 5:11

Has your faith led you to grow in your love for God and His commandments?
Does your faith lead you to obedience and service?
Have you placed your soul trust in Christ alone, fully dependent on Him for your salvation?

Thomas Scott’s Commentary says this of ‘joy inexpressible’, “they derived a joy which was so excellent, holy, substantial, and satisfactory, that it could not be expressed by words … and they shared this joy in proportion to the degree of their living faith and obedient love; whilst they delighted in the salvation which was wrought by Him, and in their enrapturing discoveries of the glory of God, harmoniously anticipating the everlasting felicity of all believers in Christ … This faith, love, and joy, … formed the distinguishing character, of real Christians … amidst their trials and conflicts”.

Matthew 5:12 "Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Read Mary’s words upon believing and trusting in God’s plan, “And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior”, Luke 1:47

Is it your practice to rejoice in God?
Are you resolved to place your confidence in His promises?

It is possible to find joy no matter the circumstances. Joy, when is based on the truths of what we know, does not fluctuate. The conditions of our lives might seem to change frequently and feel a bit unstable. However, the promises of God’s word are unchanging.

Habakkuk 3:17-18 Though the fig tree should not blossom, and there be no fruit on the vines, [Though] the yield of the olive should fail, and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold, and there be no cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the LORD, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. (when Judah was about to be invaded by the Chaldeans and injustice reigned upon the Jews)

1 Peter 4:12-13; Acts 16:23-25

Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

Does the reflection of God’s grace in your life manifest itself in joy?
Does your joy bring honor to God’s name, does it magnify His glory?

Joy is found in what we know to be true yet cannot see. It comes from the heart rather than only being a reaction to outside circumstances. Read 2 Corinthians 4:17-18. True faith will produce action. It is different than just believing a pool will hold water or an airplane will fly. It is believing in the one true God who is able to do all things, even that which seems impossible in our eyes. It is believing in the majesty and power of God, trusting in His word and His plan. May God’s influence in your heart and the reflection of His love in your life abound. May quietness and joy surround your soul as you rest secure in His truths.

We love God, we believe in God, and we rejoice in His plan – all because of Him.

Ephesians 1:13-14

Obedience –> Holiness

As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.

1Peter 1:14-15 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior.

Obedience demands that we do not follow worldly ways. Instead, we are to live holy in all our behavior (v. 15-16).

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;

What does it mean to be holy?

Specifically, what is mentioned is behavior, or all manner of conversation (KJV). People aptly take on the persona of those they admire. Look around and notice that styles of dress, speech, and even food begin with following someone’s example that another thought highly of. If you profess to follow Jesus, it is imperative that your entire life points to His holiness. We need to learn about Him so that we can imitate Him. We have examples to follow throughout the word of God. Read what Paul tells the Corinthian church, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). It is impossible for us to be perfectly holy, yet we are to endeavor to follow the pattern set before us and practice holiness in every area of our life. We are holy because we belong to God; our actions should increasingly speak of our inward salvation. Our thoughts should be held captive by Truth, and our words should honor God. As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.

2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Notice the word all in 1 Peter 1:15. All means everything, it is inclusive to your whole behavior. Matthew Poole’s Commentary has this explanation of all, “with whomsoever ye converse, believers or infidels, friends or enemies, relations or stranger; and in whatsoever condition ye are in, peace or trouble, prosperity or adversity”.

How are you seeking holiness?

Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Focus Heavenward.

Wait…

We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

Ruth 3:16-18

Ruth 3:16 And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did it go, my daughter?" And she told her all that the man had done for her.17 And she said, "These six [measures] of barley he gave to me, for he said, 'Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'“ 18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today."

We have Ruth returning from the festivities at the end of harvest. She obediently followed Naomi’s instruction to attend the activities at the threshing floor where she secretly let Boaz know of her desire to have him fulfill his role as kinsman redeemer for her late husband’s name. Boaz reacted kindly toward her and sent her home with a gift of grain and a promise that he would indeed take care of the matter. Yet, only if the one who was next of kin was unable to fulfill his obligation.

Naomi was likely anticipating the return of her daughter-in-law since she welcomed her with the question, ‘How did it go, my daughter’. This question may have been one of surprise. Remember, Ruth got up before the morning light as Boaz had told her, then he had sent her on her way before anyone had the opportunity to speak poorly of them. It was likely that Naomi had not expected Ruth to show up so early in the morning. Perhaps she wondered what had happened and maybe thought things did not go as well as she had hoped.

Considering this response, how often do we have expectations of something going a certain way? When circumstances do not develop the way we think they should we are apt to think the worst or wonder what the problem may be. Sometimes, in fact often, we cannot see things clearly. God has a perfect plan. It is good for us to trust in His timing and His execution of the events of our lives.

Ruth then gave her account of Boaz’s response. She showed her mother-in-law the grain Boaz had sent with her. Naomi’s reply in verse 18 is an example for us to follow. She tells Ruth to sit still and wait until Boaz gives her an answer, Ruth 3:18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out. Remember in Ruth 3:12-13 what Boaz said to Ruth on the threshing floor, “And now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than i. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning”.

Boaz was going to make certain that neither of them acted too quickly without paying attention to facts. This may mean that decisions cannot be made right away. It may take time to sort things out to be certain all information is considered.

How often might we think to ourselves that we need to do something to fix a situation or to figure out an answer NOW?

Once we have taken care of our responsibility in a circumstance, we need to be okay with knowing it is not up to us to make everything right. Instead, we are to have the attitude spelled out for us in the Psalms.

Psalm 37:3-5 Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Trust <batach> to hie for refuge, to be confident or sure, to put confidence, to (make to) hope.

We are to hie, or move fast, to safety. A refuge is something or someone turned to for assistance or security. Our confidence is to be in the Lord, Jehovah, the eternal God. We are to turn quickly to a heart that trusts that God is working.

Do you seek to act according to His will?
Do you believe God will not fail you?

Sometimes, we can choose to change direction because we do not see results or we do not get answers fast. We like to take matters into our own hands! Listen to this commentary, “To trust in the Lord, on his promises for support … persevering in the path of duty, however … discouraging it may appear” (Thomas Haweis).

We have a responsibility to place our trust in God even if circumstances are not what we think they ought to be. In fact, we are to be busy about doing the things God would have us do while we are trusting in His direction and care – “do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness”.

Be at rest right where God has you. Your security is in God, not in circumstances.

Are you able to find delight in the Lord?

Delight <anag> to be soft or pliable. Think about this for a moment. Perhaps your answers will not be God’s answers. That is okay. Our own determination for what should be can derail us from seeing something with different possibilities. God is in charge!

Are we open to a different direction than perhaps the one we have entertained?
Do we allow ourselves to consider an alternative that we had not thought of?
Are we able to trust in God when His direction does not make sense in our mind?

Consider anyone in authority. Their position means they make decisions for all those for which they are responsible. Parent/child, Teacher/student, Employer/employee, and Government/citizens, are all examples of these relationships. While these relationships are all subject to error because of human limits, we are still to move, even without understanding, in the direction we are told.

God, who is perfect in all His ways, and understands all things, and desires to bless His children, tells us to trust in Him and be flexible to His plan.

When we seek our joy in the Lord, through His word and promises, He will bestow upon us everything that is good. If our delight is in pleasing God, our desires will be for those things that glorify His name.

Psalm 43:4 Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy; and upon the lyre I shall praise Thee, O God, my God.

Psalm 104:34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.

“Think what he is, and what you are; and at once, both wonder and yield. And what else have you to delight in? What thing will you name that shall supply the place of GOD, or be to you in the stead of him? Moreover, who should delight in him but you -- his friends, his sons, those of his own house? Think what life and vigor it will infuse into you, and that "the joy of the Lord will be your strength," Treasury of David

“The desires of God, and the desires of the righteous, agree in one; they are of one mind in their desires”. John Bunyan.

Commit <galal> to roll (literally or figuratively); roll (away, down, together), run down, seek.

“Roll thy way upon -- as one who lays upon the shoulder of one stronger than himself a burden which he is not able to bear”. William De Burgh, D.D., in "A Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Dublin:" 1860.

Think about what happens when you commit to something. You devote yourself to someone or something. You put all your efforts confidence and trust into the thing that you have determined is important. Seek God; commit your way to follow Him. This is an active choice to follow God in obedience – even if you are unsure of the direction.

Psalm 22:8 "Commit [yourself] to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him."

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

Consider how well you do following your own wisdom.

Where do you place your concerns?
Do you fully expect God to take care of your circumstances, to fulfill your desires, to accomplish what is needed to grow you into His likeness?

He will do it! God will certainly cause His will for you to be done. This is not a maybe.

Luke 12:29 "And do not seek what you shall eat, and what you shall drink, and do not keep worrying.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

“When thou hast any difficult business in hand, and art doubtful of the success; or when thou knowest not what course to take, for the accomplishing of thy honest designs; leave all to the Lord, and trust to him in pious and upright courses, that he will direct and assist thee, and bring things to a good issue.” Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary

“Commit thy way unto the Lord. Roll the whole burden of life upon the Lord. Leave with Jehovah not thy present fretfulness merely, but all thy cares; in fact, submit the whole tenor of thy way to him. Cast away anxiety, resign thy will, submit thy judgment, leave all with the God of all. What a medicine is this for expelling envy! What a high attainment does this fourth precept indicate! How blessed must he be who lives every day in obedience to it! Trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Our destiny shall be joyfully accomplished if we confidently entrust all to our Lord. We may serenely sing --

"Thy way, not mine, O Lord, However dark it be; O lead me by thine own right hand, Choose out the path for me."

"Smooth let it be or rough, It will be still the best; Winding or straight, it matters not, It leads me to thy rest."

"I dare not choose my lot, I would not if I might; But choose Thou for me, O my God, So shall I walk aright."

"Take thou my cup, and it With joy or sorrow fill; As ever best to thee may seem, Choose thou my good and ill."

The ploughman sows and harrows, and then leaves the harvest to God. What can he do else? He cannot cover the heavens with clouds, or command the rain, or bring forth the sun or create the dew. He does well to leave the whole matter with God; and so to all of us it is truest wisdom, having obediently trusted in God, to leave results in his hands, and expect a blessed issue.” Treasury of David

We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

After Naomi tells Ruth to wait, she gives more insight into the character of Boaz, for the man will not rest until he has settled it today.

Determination. Follow-through. True to his word. Boaz can be counted on to take care of the matter as he said he would. He does not lay his responsibility aside for someone else to figure out. He is not idle, wasting time, hoping the matter will resolve itself. He does what is needed to follow through with his promise to Ruth.

Boaz’s actions remind us of his integrity and faithfulness. We see wisdom in waiting upon God’s answers and direction when we have done all that we could. We see wisdom in the necessity to be diligent to take care of the responsibility we have. Both of these things are necessary in our walk with God.

What is your response?

Chosen for Obedience

We are called to live in obedience to His will. If you are saved, you are an alien on earth. You probably realize you do not ‘fit in’ with the world’s thinking. You have been called to holiness just as those dispersed Christians Peter addressed.

1Peter 1:1-2 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, that you may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure.

These are the words of Peter, writing to Christians who had been displaced. He refers to them as “strangers” in the KJV or “aliens” in the NAS. Adam Clarke’s Commentary explains this word, “good men, though at home, are strangers, especially if they meet with opposition, trouble, and affliction, as those Christians did to whom St. Peter is here writing; for he speaks of their trials and temptations”.

The word ‘aliens’ comes from <parepidemos> meaning a resident foreigner. It specifically referred to those converted Israelites residing throughout Asia Minor (reference Strong’s Greek Dictionary). The book of James begins with a similar address, “to the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad”, James 1:1.

Peter, in verse 2, reminds the dispersed Christians that they have been saved “according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit”, for a reason – “that you may obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood”.

They have been selected, chosen by God to live holy, in obedience to their calling. This requires a heart that is submitted to God, literally meaning attentive hearkening or compliance with the will of God, surrendering to His authority. Consider Peter’s example. When he was called, he left his net and followed, turning from his old way of life, towards God, Matthew 4:18-20.

Those who have been chosen by God,

Were chosen in eternity past for God’s purpose,
Through the calling and sanctification of the Holy Spirit,
To live in obedience apart from sin through His power.

Peter describes himself as “an apostle of Jesus Christ”. An apostle <apostolos>, is an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ, a messenger who is sent. By using these words, Peter confirms his personal belief in the Gospel of grace.

Take a moment to consider how you describe yourself.
What defines you?
Have you received the precious gift of faith which spurs you on to holiness?
What does it mean to be an ambassador of the Gospel?
What is your purpose?
Are you daily growing in obedience through God’s saving grace?

Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

1Thessalonians 4:7 For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification.

2Thessalonians 2:13 But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.

“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.

Read Philip Doddridge’s N.T. commentary, “I call you {elect} because you are indeed chosen according to the fore-knowledge of God the Father, who has projected all his schemes with the most consummate wisdom, and perfect discerning of every future event. He has been pleased, according to the steady purposes of his grace, to bring you, by means of the sanctification of the Spirit, by the sanctifying influences of the Holy Ghost operating upon your souls, to evangelical obedience. He has subdued all your prejudices against the gospel, and effectually engaged you to submit to it; and thus you are interested in the pardon of sin, and in all the other blessings which proceed from the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ, whereby forgiveness is obtained for us Christians as it was for the Jews under the law, upon sprinkling the blood of the sacrifices; and may this and every other instance and degree of grace, and all the peace consequent upon it, be multiplied unto you all, wherever you are, and whatever your condition and circumstances in life may be”.

If you are saved, God has shown His favor toward you. He has determined for you to be His child, receiving His grace and the work of His Holy Spirit in your life. You have been purchased for obedience. God’s gift of redemption affords His children an abundance of peace – internal quietness in the midst of a chaotic world, and an outward response of calm through all difficulties of life. Rest, freedom from stress and anxiety, is found in God alone.

Perhaps we need to compare who we were before God’s choosing to who we are in God’s grace. Read Ephesians Chapter 2. As you read through this section of Scripture, fill out the three columns below.

Who I was - Who God is, Who I am now-

What He has done-

________________ __________________ _________________

What is your response to these truths?
How will you apply these truths in your life and circumstances?

God’s forgiveness of your sins, your response of faith, growing in holiness, living in obedience, and the resulting peace is because of God’s doing – His choosing. I pray each of us have hearts filled with gratitude for the gift of God’s grace and the power of His Spirit calling us to follow.

Following Direction

 Have you purposed to trust God’s direction in your life? How does your response to trust God manifest itself in your life?

Following Directions

Ruth 3:3-4 "Wash yourself therefore, and anoint yourself and put on your [best] clothes, and go down to the threshing floor; [but] do not make yourself known to the man until he has finished eating and drinking. And it shall be when he lies down, that you shall notice the place where he lies, and you shall go and uncover his feet and lie down; then he will tell you what you shall do."

It is difficult to wrap our heads around all the meaning in these two verses. The culture and time we are drawn into is very different from what we understand today. What we do know is that Naomi desired for Ruth to have a better future. That future seemed logically and rightfully connected to Boaz according to Jewish law. In the steps Ruth was to take, she would be letting Boaz know that she desired his action as kinsman redeemer of Elimelech’s family name. The process of uncovering Boaz’s feet and lying down at them gives information to Boaz that Ruth was indeed willing to follow what was expected under the law. It may be similar to Ruth saying she had been given direction by Naomi, understood the role of kinsman redeemer, and desired for Boaz to implement this law in marriage. Ruth was instructed to wait for Boaz to tell her his plan, “Then he will tell you what you shall do”.

The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary addresses the actions in Ruth 3:4 this way, “Singular as these directions may appear to us, there was no impropriety in them … in the case of Ruth, it was a method, doubtless conformable to prevailing usage, of reminding Boaz of the duty which devolved on him as the kinsman of her deceased husband. Boaz probably slept upon a mat or skin; Ruth lay crosswise at his feet – a position in which Eastern servants frequently sleep in the same chamber or tent with their master; and if they want a covering, custom allows them that benefit from part of the covering on their master’s bed. … there was no indelicacy in a stranger, or even a woman, putting the extremity of this cover over her.”

Picture a large feast and celebration at the end of harvesting. It would be plausible that all those attending would put on their best attire, just as we would dress differently when going to a special party. Recall what we know of Ruth and Boaz. Ruth was faithful, she was a hard-worker, and she followed God. Boaz was a relative of Elimelech; he was honorable, kind and compassionate, and recognized and encouraged Ruth’s devotion to God.

We read these few verses and have a difficult time comprehending the culture and the exact meanings of some actions. Imagine Ruth, from a different land and culture, hearing the instruction Naomi was giving her. Ruth must have trusted Naomi’s wisdom and genuine care for her because she followed her advice probably without complete understanding of the laws and customs.

Ruth 3:5 And she said to her, "All that you say I will do."

Ruth took Naomi’s advice and counted it as wisdom, even though the customs and actions described for her to follow may have seemed odd. Ruth trusted in Naomi’s discernment of the laws.

Do you seek advice from those who have more knowledge and understanding?
When someone, out of love and concern for you, shares specific action for your benefit, are you willing to proceed with their instruction?
Are we able to take direction even when we suppose our way is better? Even when we may not completely understand or even agree?

Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary says, “She put a great confidence in her mother’s prudence and piety, and trusted God would give good success to her design; which seemed not very modest, but had not other intentions than what was agreeable to the law of God”.

Naomi had made it clear to Ruth that Boaz was the wise choice for her future. She gave Ruth specific instructions to follow. Ruth’s actions would state her intentions to secure the family’s property and name with Boaz’s role as her kinsman redeemer under Jewish law. Ruth was also given clear direction to wait for Boaz’s response. Imagine Ruth hearing all this, taking a deep breath, and timidly moving ahead with this strange plan. Would this plan be accepted or rejected? What response would she receive?

To this point, it seems Boaz had given Ruth encouragement towards her future, Ruth stepped out in faith, doing what looked best and trusted God for the outcome.

Consider. What happens to our thoughts when we place our trust completely in God’s hands?

Psalm 5:11 But let all who take refuge in Thee be glad, Let them ever sing for joy; and mayest Thou shelter them, That those who love Thy name may exult in Thee.

Let us not miss the word ‘all’ in verse 5. Each translation I looked at used this adjective meaning complete or entire. Consider following the plans for constructing an airplane. How important would it be to pay attention to all directions exactly? Why?

Completely or entirely following God’s instruction is an important concept that we will take time to explore. Ruth did not follow some of Naomi’s instructions, she was careful to follow all of them. This is a picture of complete trust and total obedience, even though Ruth may not have understood the entire picture.

Think for a moment. What would it look like to follow all God’s truths on a daily basis as we interact with one another?

We cannot only take a piece of truth that conveniently fits our lifestyle and thinking for the moment. Seeking to follow all God’s ways means we do not react according to others actions. This negates excuse in our failures. In other words, we are unable to justify a poor response on our part. When you are treated unfairly, spoken of unjustly, or receive hurtful words or actions, there is no freedom to respond with careless thoughts or words. When the road ahead looks unclear or even scary, you can continue to move forward if you completely trust in God. He is working to unfold His perfect plan. Obedience in the believer’s life leads to blessing.

Psalm 119:4-6 Thou hast ordained Thy precepts, that we should keep [them] diligently. Oh that my ways may be established to keep Thy statutes! Then I shall not be ashamed when I look upon all Thy commandments.

There are more than two dozen scriptures that command us to love one another. These commands are clear and there are no exceptions. Continuing on with the same thought above, the Bible does not say that we are to show care for one another only when we feel like it or it is easy or when others make us feel loved. God’s word does not place conditions on showing love. We are to love one another even when we are slighted, hurt, accused, betrayed or experience any negative interaction. We should not respond according to our interpretation of others’ actions. We are responsible to love one another regardless, showing mercy and kindness.

Do you seek to obey God’s word even when you may not understand and it seems especially difficult, for example, in always loving one another?
Do you respond to God as Ruth responded to Naomi – all you say, I will do?

Ruth paid careful attention to Naomi’s instruction. Often, we do not pay close enough attention to instruction; we remember only part but not everything. Our intentions are only as good as our actions. Consider how different the account we are reading might have been if Ruth had not followed through with the advice given her. For instance, we can think of many things we should do but if we never put those thoughts to work, they remain only thoughts.

Ruth 3:5 gave us Ruth’s verbal response to Naomi. She said she would follow her instruction. Ruth 3:6 tells us that Ruth’s response was genuine as she put information into practice.

Ruth 3:6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did according to all that her mother-in-law had commanded her. Ruth’s action to observe Naomi’s instructions gave honor to her mother-in-law. We will take a sideline here and consider several verses that speak of honoring parents by yielding to their instruction.

Exodus 20:12 “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you.

Deuteronomy 5:16 'Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, that your days may be prolonged, and that it may go well with you on the land which the LORD your God gives you.

Proverbs 1:8 Hear, my son, your father's instruction, and do not forsake your mother's teaching;

Proverbs 4:1 Hear, [O] sons, the instruction of a father, and give attention that you may gain understanding,

Picture a feast following the hard work of those employed by Boaz. Boaz has included himself among the workers to oversee that the grain is winnowed without unnecessary waste. Then as the evening winds down, with a full stomach and the satisfaction of a completed harvest, Boaz lies down on the threshing floor to sleep until morning.

Ruth 3:7 When Boaz had eaten and drunk and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of grain; and she came secretly, and uncovered his feet and lay down.

The Targum, which is a translation of the Old Testament Scriptures in the Chaldee or Aramaic language adds, “He blessed the name of the Lord, who had heard his prayer, and removed famine from the land of Israel”. This is consistent with the honorable character we have seen in Boaz.

According to Thomas Scott’s commentary, “His heart was merry” can be translated as “his heart was good and may be used to mark his cheerfulness and thankfulness for the plenty which the Lord has sent after the famine; and his subsequent conduct shows that his feast was consistent with temperance and piety”. The word ‘drunk’ <shathah>, or drinking to full is different from the word used in Ephesians 5:18 when speaking of getting drunk <methusko>, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit”. One is having plenty of liquids as in quenching your thirst, the other is excess, becoming intoxicated with a substance that controls you. Instead of being filled or controlled with wine, we are to be filled with the Spirit.

After the celebration of the end of harvest, Boaz lay to sleep on the threshing floor and Ruth secretly, or quietly, places herself at his feet. To us, Ruth’s action may seem overt, yet remember Ruth’s character of virtue noticed by him earlier in Ruth 2:11-12. Ruth was simply obeying the instruction of Naomi and depending upon the honorable character of Boaz.

This strange interaction causes me to consider the necessity of moving forward in faith and trust in God’s plan even when we do not clearly see or understand His ways. Our responsibility is to seek wisdom and guidance from His word. Often, we are unable to figure out every detail or turn. However, we can be certain that God will protect and guide those who sincerely seek to do His will. This takes a desire and purposed plan to spend time in God’s word.

2 Samuel 22:31 "As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the LORD is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.

Psalm 36:7 How precious is Thy lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Thy wings.

Psalm 84:12 O LORD of hosts, How blessed is the man who trusts in Thee!

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

Isaiah 26:3 "The steadfast of mind Thou wilt keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in Thee.

Have you purposed to trust God’s direction in your life? How does your response to trust God manifest itself in your life?

Ruth 3:8-9 And it happened in the middle of the night that the man was startled and bent forward; and behold, a woman was lying at his feet. And he said, "Who are you?” And she answered, "I am Ruth your maid. So spread your covering over your maid, for you are a close relative."

Reading this verse tells us there was no indication from Boaz that Ruth would be sleeping at his feet. Picture, the middle of the night feeling like something was not quite right, even having a moment of fear, as you felt something at your feet. Upon asking who was there, Ruth answers with a request for Boaz to take her as his wife and protection. The phrase, “spread your covering over your maid’ was a symbol of matrimonial protection according to the Annotated Bible Notes. Imagine how awkward this must have been for Ruth and Boaz alike. She had willingly placed herself in a position that presented the possibility of rejection. She also trusted that Boaz would honor her virtue and not take advantage of her. We continue to witness Ruth following Naomi’s direction and God’s care and protection of his children. You can imagine Ruth almost holding her breath as she waits for Boaz’s response.

Ruth 3:10 Then he said, "May you be blessed of the LORD, my daughter. You have shown your last kindness to be better than the first by not going after young men, whether poor or rich.

Boaz responds favorably with a blessing toward Ruth. Ruth has shown care to follow what was expected of her according to Jewish law – that is to seek to continue the family name by appropriation of a kinsman redeemer. Remember the information we were given in Chapter two of Ruth’s piety as she went home each evening after work instead of being out and about (Ruth 2:23). Finding a younger man, whether rich or poor, could have been the main concern for Ruth. Yet, she was more interested in carrying on the family’s name and inheritance. This strongly speaks of sincerity in her desire to honor Naomi and her late husband’s family. She is not focused entirely on her own benefits but on the greater good for those involved.

Consider. What is the difference between selfishness and selflessness? There are times when doing the ‘right’ thing is difficult or does not seem rewarding. Taking care to know God’s word, to seek His direction in all circumstances, is a benefit to each of us. Proof of our genuine desire to follow God puts our own wants last as we place His truths first. Selfish motives and actions please the doer; righteous motives and actions bless others and honors God.

Boaz was an honorable man. He did not take advantage of Ruth. Rather he recognized her virtuous character. Ruth chose to follow Naomi instead of staying in Moab, which would have proven a greater opportunity to marry. Ruth chose to dedicate herself to the care of her mother-in-law instead of going about the town in the evenings. Ruth chose to follow Naomi’s instructions carefully instead of doing things her own way or perhaps in a way that made more sense to her at the time – even to the extent of placing herself in what might have been a questionable position. Her desire to be obedient is protected by God’s hand and direction.

Romans 8:27-28 and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to [the will of] God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.

Choosing to observe Godly instruction is an example to follow.

Joseph

We sing about the kings, we sing about the shepherds, we sing about Mary, and of course we sing praises to Jesus, our Lord and Savior. What about Joseph, Mary’s husband? He is an unsung hero in our nativity scene. What can we learn of him, who was he?

Mt 1:16 and to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Joseph had future plans of a wedding to Mary. He was a carpenter (Mt 13:55), so we can conclude he was a skilled worker. Picture him, going about his plans, working towards this future time of marriage, then the bomb drops!

Mt 1:18-19 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly.

We don’t know exactly how or when he found out about Mary’s unique pregnancy, but we do know he was rightfully a little taken back. He acted mercifully towards her which gives us a picture of a compassionate heart and tender feelings for Mary. He wasn’t going to hand her over to Jewish law and its consequences. He chose not to throw her ‘under the bus’. So he decides to quietly, (rather than publicly), end his betrothal to her and avoid her shame. Think for a moment, Joseph and Mary’s betrothal was not a secret, it was publicly known that they had plans for the future to be together. Suddenly this would change and no matter how discreet Joseph chose to be, the word would get out. Certainly, people would talk and his name, along with Mary’s, would be up for questioning and raised eyebrows.

Matthew 1:19 says Joseph was a righteous or just man. Yet we also see he is thoughtful, ‘not wanting to disgrace’ Mary.

Consider. We live in a world where accusations are quick and biting, often without merit. People’s reputations can be ruined. It seems, in general, our society has forgotten the choice to remain silent and show mercy towards those found in difficult and even guilty circumstances. Perhaps we can be reminded of the necessity to act in a manner that is righteous but also tempered with a large dose of gentleness, humility and mercy towards others.

Fact – God continually shows mercy to us in His faithfulness to forgive.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

According to Albert Barnes’ New Testament Commentary, the punishment for adultery, in the Middle East carried extreme public shame. “Adultery has always been considered a crime of a very heinous nature. In Egypt it was punished by cutting off the nose of the adulteress; in Persia the nose and ears were cut off; in Judea the punishment was death by stoning”.

Joseph had every right to bring a public accusation against Mary, yet he chose to ‘put her away secretly’ preserving her shame and character.

Ps 112:4-5 Light arises in the darkness for the upright; [He is] gracious and compassionate and righteous. 5 It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment.

Consider. We often hear the words, ‘It isn’t fair’. Perhaps you have personally thought the words, ‘This is not right’. The temptation is to defend yourself against something that looks bad for you. Our example in Joseph is to put another’s protection above our own ‘rights’ and even our own innocence.

Think back upon how God ordains each of His children’s steps. Before all time, God chose Joseph to be a player in the miraculous birth of Jesus. God knew that Joseph would react towards Mary’s circumstances with a heart of care and protection, even in his own distress from what seemed to be his future wife’s betrayal. So while he could have her persecuted, he chose to preserve her.

Read this interesting comment about Joseph’s character written in the British Family Bible: “he purposed to put his spouse away privily, that he might preserve her reputation. In so doing he was a pattern of charity, and reads to us a rule for our deportment towards erring and lapsed persons, that we should treat them with meekness, and pity, and fear; not hastening their shame, nor provoking their spirit, nor making their reformation desperate by harsh treatment. Bp. J. Taylor.

We do know that God comes to the rescue of Mary’s reputation and encourages Joseph to remain and follow through with his plans for their future. However, a personal application is apparent first.

Consider. Before an ‘angel of the Lord’ appeared to Joseph in a dream and enlightened him on the true facts of Mary’s condition, Joseph acted with a heart of kindness and mercy towards her. Before Joseph was convinced of the truth of the matter, he chose to quietly put her away rather than openly shame her. Before God’s plan was revealed, Joseph chose Mary’s protection over his own rights.

“Mary was espoused to him, and he was saddened and perplexed when he learned that she would become a mother before they had been actually married. Many would have thrust her away in indignation, and put her to an open shame; but Joseph was of royal mind as well as royal race. He would not expose what he thought to be the sin of his espoused wife: although he felt that she must be put away, he would do it quietly. When we have to do a severe thing, let us choose the tenderest manner. May be, we shall not have to do it at all.” Spurgeon’s Commentary on Matthew

We all have choices to act in a manner of mercy towards one another. We all have choices to protect another’s name and well-being. Often, we weigh ourselves and our benefit first. How tender are our actions and thoughts towards the mistakes and circumstances of others?

Clemency is not a word often used today. It conveys the meaning of being lenient and showing compassion towards others who are guilty when you are in a position of bringing down a judgement or sentence.

God’s intervention and lovingkindness is shown towards Mary and Joseph in their precarious relationship. As Joseph was pondering what to do with this situation of Mary’s pregnancy, divine intervention eased his thoughts.

Mt 1:20-21 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins."

Seriously?! So here we have a carpenter from Nazareth, engaged to be married to a young women whom he finds is expecting a child before they have had a physical relationship. Joseph decides to act in a discreet manner towards this news to avoid Mary’s shame. He will call off the engagement and pray any ‘talk’ will settle down quickly. Problem solved, or so you would think!

Joseph has a dream which enlightens the true events and he is pulled into the scene which is to unfold. An angel tells him to move ahead with his plans to betroth Mary. He is given this fantastical – meaning ludicrously odd – news that the child Mary is carrying has been conceived of the Holy Spirit. I’m not sure how you would wrap your head around this information.

Consider. Joseph must have had a faith that transcends our understanding. How would you respond to impossible, and humanly speaking, the improbable news of this dream? Joseph’s thoughts must be akin to when Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel to tell her of God’s plan for her to carry His child – although she knew no man (Luke 1:34-35).

What is Joseph’s response? He did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.

Mt 1:24 And Joseph arose from his sleep, and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took [her] as his wife

A carpenter from Nazareth in the hills of Galilee had plans to marry a young woman from the same city. His plans take a turn that was definitely unexpected and incredibly difficult in human understanding. Yet, Joseph’s faith proves true as he moves forward into unknown territory with a heart of obedience towards God. Think of Joseph’s humble character as he accepts Mary as his wife, and prepares to step-father a child not his own, all the while, trying to wrap his head around a story that would be difficult for anyone to grasp. He will go ahead with his betrothal to Mary and take a significant role in the Savior’s birth and early childhood.

I have to pause a moment here as these words shout in my own head – How big is your God? How amazing and incredible is your God? How perfect is your God who knows and plans each moment in each minute of all mankind – all to His glorious name?

This story has more twists and turns than any modern day screen writer could imagine. Yet, it is ultimately true and divinely inspired as the plan of salvation for the entire world.

In several instances, we read of Joseph’s obedience to Jewish Law (Lu 2:1-4; 21-39, 41; Mt 2:13-15; Mt 2:19-23; Lu 2:42-51). The greater commendation is his obedience to God and acceptance of God’s plan for him.

Joseph was of the lineage of David. He lived in the city of Nazareth in Galilee (Luke 1:26-27). Although he was not the physical father of Jesus, he acted as a father to Him (Luke 4:22). He is last mentioned in the journey to Jerusalem when Jesus was twelve years old. According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, ‘it is commonly supposed that he [Joseph] died before the commencement of the public ministry of Christ.

Joseph, Mary’s husband. We are shown only a glimpse, a small window of his life. Yet, the inspiration is great. He is a person, drawn towards God and used by Him. A carpenter from a town in the hills of Galilee with a heart of compassion and integrity and thoughtfulness. Joseph is willing and obedient to the plans of God and humble in his acceptance of God’s direction. There is no way he would be able to comprehend such an incredible plot yet he finds himself in the midst of the true story of God’s redemption for the entire world.

The figure of Joseph is commonly placed next to Mary in a Christian nativity scene, simply because we know he belongs there, he is a factor in the account of Jesus’ birth. Yet, as we take a closer look at his life, we can see clearly how God used our ‘unsung’ hero. Think upon the example we have in Joseph – a heart full of compassion, humility, faith, and obedience – a man used by God for God in His plan for humanity.

Mt 1:25 and [Joseph] kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.

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Eyes of Wonder

As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory.

Every Christmas season, scenes of Jesus’ birth is depicted all around – in store front windows, in picture books on store shelves, and on ornaments for the tree. The nativity is printed on napkins, fabric and canvas suitable for framing. Little eyes look with wonder at the familiar scene and sing songs of a ‘Silent Night’ so long ago. What do we know of the characters represented?

What do we know of Mary?

Her husband was Joseph, whose father was Jacob. She gave birth to Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. His birth has been celebrated world-wide for over two thousand years!

Matthew 1:16 And to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Mary lived in the city of Nazareth which was set among the hills of Galilee. It seems that the people who lived in Nazareth were scorned upon (ref. John1:46), so it may not have been a popular place to live. But, something quite extraordinary happened to an unsuspecting teen according to the Bible.

Luke 1:26-30 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee, called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, "Hail, favored one! The Lord [is] with you." 29 But she was greatly troubled at [this] statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.

Note, the salutation given to Mary by the angel Gabriel. She is favored by God! This comes from the Greek word charitoo meaning to give grace or special honor. Mary is accepted by God as His own. According to the account above, she was actually disturbed by this greeting and wondered what was meant.

Think for a moment how strange this encounter might have been! It was not an everyday occurrence to have an angel of the Lord visit you. She did not expect God to give her a special honor which leads us to believe she was humble. In this unusual meeting, it was most likely difficult for her to even know what to think or say. How would you respond?

Picture this young girl, living in the town of Nazareth set in hills made of limestone, trying to wrap her head around this greeting. You can almost see her shaking her head in disbelief, wondering if she was dreaming or hallucinating. Then, the real news is delivered.

Luke 1:31 "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.

Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus. This fact, in itself, makes no sense in our human knowledge and understanding. Yet, it is true. It is highly doubtful that Mary was able to comprehend how she could conceive and carry a child without having an intimate relationship with a man. Read her response:

Luke 1:34 And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"

Hmmmm, you must have the wrong person, right!? She was not even married yet! The entire context of this scenario seems to be out of place, at least in human terms.

Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God.

Consider the news Mary had received, how her life was turned upside down. One day she was anticipating her marriage to Joseph, the next she was wondering how she would convince him of what had happened and hope he would somehow accept this unbelievable change in their plans.

Mary was probably not oblivious to the laws and the consequence of what others might think. Yet, her response to what she understands as impossible, unbelievable, and in all likelihood puts her in a position of wrong accusation and death, certainly proves she is God’s favored, full of His grace.

Luke 1:38 And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.

There are two thoughts from her response that cannot escape our notice. Faith and obedience. She believed what the angel said would happen, and she refers to herself as the Lord’s bondslave, in complete acceptance of His use of her life. What we do not read is an account of Mary thinking that perhaps God could find someone else to use, that this might prove to be quite difficult and it was going to upset the plans she had for her future. Instead, her faith in God’s will for her life shines forth. Her obedience to God’s plan is steadfast. It is remarkable, worthy of our notice.

Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.

The word used in the KJV for betrothed, is espoused. According to Jewish custom, a man and woman could be espoused or promised in agreement to one another ten to twelve months before they were married. This time was much like what we consider being engaged today. However, there is a difference. In the Jewish religion the betrothal agreement was legal and binding on both sides, at the time of engagement. Our cultural practice today sees an engagement as non-binding and without any legalities involved. No matter if a marriage ceremony takes place or not, or if unfaithfulness is practiced, there is little consequence. In Mary’s case, unfaithfulness during the time of betrothal was considered adultery and punished exactly the same way.

Leviticus 20:10 'If [there is] a man who commits adultery with another man's wife, one who commits adultery with his friend's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

John 8:3-5a And the scribes and the Pharisees *brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the midst, 4 they *said to Him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5a "Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; …"

Was Mary afraid of what might happen? We do not read she was, but she was human and must have had feelings and fears and thoughts. It would be fair to think she felt a bit uncertain and uneasy how this plan was going to come to fruition. We do know Mary at least suffered the misunderstanding of those who loved her.

Read the commentary below on Matthew 1:18.

“She was found with child. Her situation was the most distressing and humiliating that can be conceived. Nothing but the fullest consciousness of her own integrity, and the strongest confidence in God, could have supported her in such trying circumstances, where her reputation, her honour, and her life were at stake. What conversation passed between her and Joseph, on this discovery, we are not informed; but the issue proves that it was not satisfactory to him: nor could he resolve to consider her as his wife, till God had sent his angel to bear the most unequivocal testimony to the virgin's innocence. His whole conduct, on this occasion, was exceedingly benevolent and humane. He might at once have taken the advantage of the law, and had her stoned to death.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Matthew 1:19-20 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly. 20 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

Think again of the consequence of what Mary’s condition looked like to those around her, this time recorded for us in Deuteronomy.

Deuteronomy 22:23-24a "If there is a girl who is a virgin engaged to a man, and [another] man finds her in the city and lies with her, 24a then you shall bring them both out to the gate of that city and you shall stone them to death ...”

Consider. Mary’s age. She was probably much younger than what we might think. According to several different studies, the average age for women to get married nowadays is about twenty-five years old. Four generations ago, it was not so unusual to be married in your very early twenties. Today, that would be considered fairly young! Rewind to the time and culture of our subject. It was common then for young women to be espoused or betrothed in their early teens, when it was physically possible to conceive children. This was culturally not only accepted but expected. Taking this into thought, it is fair to assume that Mary may have been little more than a teenager.

Imagine for a moment the teenage girls you know and try to comprehend the full weight of responsibility placed on Mary at this young age. It is difficult to believe and absolutely inspiring to read her response to the news she was given and all it may have conjured up in her mind.

As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory. God will use each of us right where we are placed. We may not always understand His plan (I often do not understand), sometimes God may require that we are uncomfortable, and He may ask some to suffer. God may change the plans we thought we would follow. In times of unexpected turns we have been given an example to follow through the exemplary life of a teenage girl. We are not to worship Mary, God alone is worthy of praise. But, we can esteem her life as one used by God and look at His amazing ways with hearts of love and eyes of wonder.

Cry With Your Whole Heart

Prayer is not an exercise we take part in; prayer is a tangible way of speaking to God with the expectation that He hears us and answers us.

What is prayer?

WordWeb defines prayer as “The act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving); reverent petition to a deity; an earnest or urgent request”.

Prayer is the act of communicating with deity but not just any deity – the One True God. There is only one God of all creation, of the universe. Prayer to any other source will avail nothing.

De 4:35 "To you it was shown that you might know that the LORD, He is God; there is no other besides Him.

Isa 44:6 "Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel And his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides Me.

The nineteenth section in Psalm 119 begins with several verses devoted to David’s prayers to God.

Ps 119:145 I cried with all my heart; answer me, O LORD! I will observe Thy statutes.

Ps 119:146 I cried to Thee; save me, and I shall keep Thy testimonies.

Ps 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I wait for Thy words.

Ps 119:148 My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word.

Psalm 119:145 begins with the words, “I cried with all my heart”.

The word for cried means to call out to someone. Notice how David cried – with all his heart. This makes me think of the difference between actual crying for a reason and whining. Whining is making a noise so others notice how unhappy you are. If you’ve ever experienced a three year old doing this, you get the picture!

God doesn’t want just our lip service. Those prayers memorized that are repeated over and over almost as a mantra may make us feel as if we’re doing something good, but do we even know what we’re saying? Is this type of prayer coming from a heart or from a mind that has learned to put words together that sound good? Words are only words. Prayer is not an exercise we take part in; prayer is a tangible way of speaking to God with the expectation that He hears us and answers us.

Consider the different types of conversations you might have with people. Some you’re fully engaged in, others are only informational and sometimes our conversations can be obligatory. Hopefully, we are fully engaged when praying to God, expecting truths from His word to affect our daily lives. Going to God with a heart of gratitude and recognized need is so much more than an obligation.

When we talk about the heart, we are speaking of the feelings, the will, the intellect and the center of who we are. Effective prayer to God needs to be with an understanding of who He is, who we are, and what He has done for us. In order to pray we need to be righteous before Him having accepted the gift of eternal life.

Pr 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

Jas 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.

We have the example of praying with understanding. Often, people will say they are praying for something, or even praying for us. That’s good! But, just who are they praying too? Is it the God who saves them? Do they know the truth of the Gospel and the power of prayer offered to an Almighty God?

The Psalmist pleads with God to answer him, to hear him. David knows God hears him and because of God’s work in his life, David will be able to keep God’s commands. David’s whole heart is committed to prayer before God and he goes to God with a heart of obedience – desiring to keep God’s statutes.

It’s much like us praying to God, in a heartfelt petition, to help us continue on even when it’s really difficult. It’s like saying ‘I come before you God, fully committed to You, please assure me of your work in my life, so that in Your strength, I may keep walking forward’.

Ps 119:10 With all my heart I have sought Thee; do not let me wander from Thy commandments.

Are your affections and heart completely devoted to God? Do we cry to God in earnest? Does our petition include a desire to obey God’s commands?

Ps 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.

We see another element of David’s prayer in Psalm 119:146.

Ps 119:146 I cried to Thee; save me, and I shall keep Thy testimonies.

The Psalmist understands his need for God’s work in his life, hence the request, ‘save me’.

Consider. What is the most important part of our relationship with God? What is our relationship with God based on? Because of God’s perfect love for us, He sent Jesus, His only Son, to suffer and die to pay the penalty for our sin. We need only to accept His gift of grace and desire to live in obedience. God is the only one who can save us. What does He save us from?

"Save me" from the dangers which surround me, from the enemies that pursue me, from the temptations which beset me, from the sins which accuse me.” Treasury of David

David is once again crying out to God in prayer and this time he requests God to save him, to defend and deliver him, to help him. And what is the Psalmist’s motivation and end to his request? “I shall keep Thy testimonies”.

Even though the Psalmist experienced danger and persecution from all around him, his main object in praying for God to save him was that he might be able to follow God’s commands and live a life worthy of his calling. There is no thought of ‘save me so I can do whatever I want or like’, only ‘save me so I can honor You’.

When we pray, what is our object – to request God’s supply so that we might serve Him more, or to request His comfort so we can continue serving ourselves?

“Brief as are the petitions, the whole compass of language could not make them more comprehensive.”Hear me." The soul is in earnest, the whole heart is engaged in the "cry." "Save me" -- includes a sinner's whole need -- pardon, acceptance, access, holiness, strength, comfort, heaven, -- all in one word -- Christ. The way of access is not indeed mentioned in these short ejaculations. But it is always implied in every moment's approach and address to the throne of grace. "Hear me" in the name of my all prevailing Advocate. "Save me" through him, whose name is Jesus the Saviour.” --Charles Bridges.

Ps 5:2 Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to Thee do I pray.

“Save me. From my sins, my corruptions, my temptations, all the hindrances that lie in my way, that I may "keep thy testimonies." We must cry for salvation, not that we may have the case and comfort of it, but that we may have an opportunity of serving God the more cheerfully.” --Matthew Henry.

In Psalm 119:145-146, we have the Psalmist continuing in prayer with an earnest cry to God with his whole heart in order that he might be able to keep God’s commands even in the midst of adversity, not to gain his own desires, but to please God by following Him. The Psalmist understood completely where his help came from, who his strength was, and his need for God’s saving grace. As we continue on to the next few verses we are given an idea when David prays.

Ps 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I wait for Thy words.

Ps 119:148 My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word.

ALL THE TIME!

You may be thinking, ‘I’m not a morning person, though’. Certainly not as early as the implication in this scripture. Perhaps we need to look deeper at the intent of our Psalmist. He anticipated his time in prayer so highly that it caused him to rise early. So much was his desire to spend time with God that he simply couldn’t wait till morning light! And his desire continued on into the night so that when you would have expected him to sleep, he was still awake and in prayer with the God he loved.

Sometimes when something is on our mind, we have trouble sleeping. In those moments, where do you turn? What do you do? Perhaps the answer is the example we see in David – go to prayer. God hears us at any time.

Prayer was so vital to David’s relationship with God that it encompassed his day and night. We see the same devotion to prayer in Job’s life.

Job 23:12 "I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.

And there are several accounts recorded for us of Jesus being devoted to prayer.

Lu 6:12 And it was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God.

Mr 1:35 And in the early morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there.

The Treasury of David says of Psalm 119:147, “His supplications had become so frequent, fervent, and intense, that he might hardly be said to be doing anything else from morning to night but crying unto his God.”

In verse 147, it says “I wait for Thy words”. Wait can be translated hope, to be patient, to trust. This hope is a certain hope, not one that may or may not transpire, but a definite trust that God will answer prayer.

Hope is a necessary part of sincere prayer. Consider. If we did not have certain hope of God answering our prayers, how would our communication with God change? To be sincere in our prayer we must believe that God will hear us and will answer us. This doesn’t mean we will get what we ask for – we don’t even know what we really need – but, it does mean God will answer in His time and His way for His glory and our good. This we can be certain of. When we believe the answers are in God’s hands, we have cause for an earnest need of prayer, to come before Him with expectation of His blessings and answers.

When I was young, I prayed to many different statues and saints of old. I didn’t trust these pieces of stone and marble and non-living people for anything. There was certainly no real expectation of gaining from these prayers but in my understanding at that time, there was a certain amount of blessing bestowed on those who did these things. My prayers were half-hearted at best and absolutely without a genuine belief and trust that anything would happen. I did not have the hope our Psalmist speaks of in Psalm 119:147. David knew he was praying to the Living God.

The account of Daniel and the Lion’s Den, a story most of us are familiar with, in Daniel chapter 6, ends with this decree going out from king Darius:

Da 6:26 "I make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel; For He is the living God and enduring forever, And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, And His dominion [will be] forever.

Daniel was saved by the Living God, not a god made by men, but the One True God who is able and desiring to answer His children who cry out to Him. Waiting expectantly for God’s answers to prayer is what compels us to fervent prayer! Do you view prayer as something you are supposed to do or is it a necessary part of your life?

“I wish that when I first open my eyes in the morning, I may then, in soul ejaculatory prayer, open my heart to my God, that at night prayer may make my bed soft, and lay my pillow easy; that in the daytime prayer may perfume my clothes, sweeten my food, oil the wheels of my particular vocation, keep me company upon all occasions, and gild over all my natural, civil, and religious actions. I wish that, after I have poured out my prayer in the name of Christ, according to the will of God, having sowed my seed, I may expect a crop, looking earnestly for the springing of it up, and believing assuredly that I shall reap in time if I faint not.” --George Swinnock.

Psalm 119:148 says, “My eyes anticipate the night watches”. Following is an explanation of what is meant by night watches.

“The Jews divided the night into three watches, which began at what we call six o'clock in the evening, and consisted each of four hours. The Romans taught them afterwards to divide it into four watches of three hours each; and to divide the day and night into twelve hours each; wherein different guards of soldiers were appointed to watch. At the proclaiming of each watch the psalmist appears to have risen and performed some act of devotion.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Whether we are called to be up at a specific time or go to bed at a specific time, doesn’t seem to be the path of this verse. However, the reminder to be in continuous prayer is clear. The word meditate is also used in reference to spending time in God’s word. This conveys the idea of pondering over the word. Thinking upon the word over and over was what caused David to have hope even when it was difficult. How do we know this? Because he has continually referenced his cry to God along with his desire to keep God’s commands. What was the fuel that kept our Psalmist going? Truth. Certain Hope. Trust.

In the Treasury of David, the Psalmist is described as an “ardent, earnest, and painstaking student” of God’s word. When we consider meditating on something, it means to think deeply over a period of time, to reflect on information we have. When applied to the word, this is so much more than checking off a box, completing our reading for the day.

Throughout Psalm 119, there are several instances of requesting understanding. As we cry to God with our hearts, seeking His answers, trusting in His work, and desiring to obey His commands; as we continuously pray and meditate on God’s word, He will give us understanding. What a privilege it is to know our Savior more and more!

Purposed for His Glory

Our purpose for each day will present itself if we listen to God and follow Him and desire to serve Him. Who is it all about anyways? Is it about doing what I want to fulfill my life? Or is it about doing what God commands to bring glory to Him? My life is not my own!

The United States Army had a slogan for twenty years, “Be All You Can Be” – in the Army. It generated a feeling of being able to push yourself to all extremes and do it for a cause that was believed in.

Several weeks ago, someone told me they just wanted to find their purpose in God. With a sincere heart, they were struggling and desiring for their purpose to be clear. I would propose that finding our purpose is not so difficult, it is quite clearly written in God’s word: why we are here and what we are to be about doing. So perhaps, the words, ‘finding my purpose’ can better be equated to acting upon what I know to do. Finding a purpose is not difficult, it’s doing. And it’s being content in the place and position God has ordained for us. Our greater purpose is to glorify God. Each of us has what you might call a lesser purpose. Such as, maybe you have a talent or strength in the arts or science or teaching. It could be that raising a family, caring for a parent, or being an encouragement to others is where you are at this time in your life. If we concentrate on our sole purpose to please God with the lives He has given, then our roles or what He has individually planned for us will become clear. Our lesser purpose may change from time to time as God moves us around to serve in different ways for Himself. Our purpose for each day will present itself if we listen to God and follow Him and desire to serve Him. Who is it all about anyways? Is it about doing what I want to fulfill my life? Or is it about doing what God commands to bring glory to Him? My life is not my own!

What is our purpose according to God’s written word? Actually, I like the word ‘charge’ we looked at in a recent women’s bible study. We’ve been going through Psalm 119 for several years now, it seems like a long time but really there is so much to consider as we look verse by verse at God’s perfect words to us.

Ps 119:138 Thou hast commanded Thy testimonies in righteousness and exceeding faithfulness.

The word ‘commanded’ in this verse is from <tsavah>. In Strong’s Concordance, part of the definition reads (to give) a charge. Also included are these words: (Intensively) to constitute, enjoin, appoint, bid, send a messenger, put (set) in order.

As I wrote earlier, I gravitated towards the idea of being given a charge. There is responsibility in that thought. A purpose. Action. When we are given a charge, we are assigned a duty, given responsibility; we have an obligation to act upon something. Obedience is enjoined in our purpose.

This same word was used when God told Adam he could eat of every tree in the garden except the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17). Adam’s charge was to obey. Throughout chapter three in Genesis, this same word is used as God places judgement on all of mankind for Adam’s failure to follow God’s commands.

God commanded Noah to build the ark (Gen 6-7). Noah’s part in this was action, obedience to God’s charge. God commanded the Israelites through the entire book of Deuteronomy. God meticulously told them what to do – their purpose. Joshua was given a charge, or command, to be ‘strong and courageous’ (Jos 1:9). God commands obedience (Jer 7:23).

In Matthew 15, God commands that honor be shown to our father and mother (Matt 15:4). The translation of ‘commanded’ in this verse is from a different word, <entellomai>, which carries the same meaning of ‘to be given a charge’.

Acts 10:42 says, "And He ordered us to preach to the people, and solemnly to testify that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead”. Ordered, or commanded in the KJV, comes from <paraggello>. Again, the same idea of being given a charge to do something. A purpose.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of words or scripture, but it is certainly enough to merit our attention to the ‘purpose’ we have been given in this world as God’s children. Most of the explanations of words are Greek (or Hebrew) to me!!! (This is funny, but true). But, we are not required to be a student of language or theology in order to understand what God wants. We have been given clear commands, or charges. Our purpose is found in God’s word.

This is so contrary to the world’s thinking. We are groomed from a very early age to ‘be something’ or ‘to do something with our life’. Jobs are important, therefore education is important in order to get employment that will bring in a paycheck so that we are able to provide what is needed for ourselves and perhaps family and others. These are all good things and require our attention and some hard work. And, God has given the human mind an amazing capacity for understanding information and solving problems. Goals are important – we are to use our time and energy wisely – but our plans should never supersede God’s commands.

Consider. What is the first thing we say when someone asks us to tell them about ourselves? Do we rattle of a list of accomplishments, job titles and positions before mentioning anything of our relationship with Jesus Christ? That we are His child, living for Him?

What is our purpose according to God’s word?

Eph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

We have been created for good works. Our purpose is to be occupied with leading holy lives. Eph 1:4 just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him. …

Ro 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

2Co 5:5 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge.

Joh 15:16 "You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask of the Father in My name, He may give to you.

Mt 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Col 1:10 so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Good works does not save us, however, we are created for good works. Our purpose. No amount of our own effort has value in bringing us to live a holy life. But, God has made us to be holy for Him. In Him alone are we able to walk in holiness. We are designed by God and enabled by God to live in a manner pleasing to Him.

Ephesians gives us some of the characterization of walking in good works.

Eph 4:31-32 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.

Wow! This is quite a list, right! For myself, just being purposed to do the things above gives me plenty of ‘things to do’ during the course of each day. Consider. What would it look like to purpose to forgiveness in all things for everyone; to show kindness, to be compassionate towards others in every circumstance, no matter what? And why would we try to do this? It’s our purpose. It brings glory to God when we strive to live in holiness. Because God tells us to do so and our purpose is obedience to Him.

Read 1 Thessalonians 5: 8-9, But since we are of [the] day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ,

We have been destined – not for wrath – but for obtaining salvation! Talk about purpose! When I looked up the word destined <tithemi>, part of the definition says purpose. Our destiny, God’s intention for us, our fate is for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. This is incredibly encouraging and humbling at the same time. Encouraging because my purpose is clear, humbling because God has chosen, in His grace, to call me His child, to rescue me, to purchase me, from the ravages of sin, to the righteousness of Christ. I don’t know myself as well as God knows me, yet I do know that sin wages war in my mind daily; there is a constant battle going on; a fight to do what is right; a perpetual clinging to Jesus to produce the good works I have been created for.

Since we are destined for obtaining salvation in Christ and charged to live lives that are holy and blameless, we need to fight sin. In ourselves, this is impossible. But, with the tools given to us from God, this is entirely plausible!

We are to be sober. We are to be temperate, careful, and watchful.

1Th 5:6 so then let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober.

1Pe 4:7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.

1Pe 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour

The word ‘vigilant’ comes to mind. When we are sober, we are able to be observant and attentive to possible dangers. We have our eyes open and looking about for the things that threaten us. We are on guard against sin.

Ro 13:13-14 Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. 14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to [its] lusts.

Eph 5:6-8 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them; 8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light

We are to be ready to work and even fight, using God’s armor.
- the breastplate of faith and love

Consider. What does a breastplate protect? Our heart. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says this: “what the breastplate and helmet are to a soldier's heart and head, such are faith, love, and hope to us. Faith enables us to endure, as seeing him who is invisible; love excites us to diligence and activity, and makes us bear our troubles and difficulties pleasantly; hope helps us to anticipate the great end, the glory that shall be revealed, and which we know we shall in due time obtain, if we faint not.”

Eph 6:16 in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming missiles of the evil one.

By faith we are justified in Christ. Being justified means we are righteous before God. This righteousness is what shields our heart from attack. Consider. Where are we without the breastplate of righteousness protecting us? We are vulnerable to the darkness of sin. We are defenseless against the attacks of the evil one. What is protecting your heart against attack?

- and as a helmet, the hope of salvation

A helmet protects the head from blows. As God’s children, we have His protection. Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary says this: “A soldier would not fight well without a hope of victory. A Christian could not contend with his foes, without the hope of final salvation; but, sustained by this, what has he to dread?”

Macknight, on the Epistles, says our “head is the seat of reason”. It is responsible for our thoughts and feelings. If left unguarded, without the light and truth of God’s word, we are susceptible to attack. Hope helps us to continue, even through dangers. Our hope is certain. Hope <elpis> means to anticipate, usually with pleasure; expectation or confidence.

Job 19:23-27 "Oh that my words were written! Oh that they were inscribed in a book! "That with an iron stylus and lead They were engraved in the rock forever!" And as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last He will take His stand on the earth. "Even after my skin is destroyed, yet from my flesh I shall see God; Whom I myself shall behold, and whom my eyes shall see and not another. My heart faints within me.

Ps 42:5 Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.

Ro 5:2-5 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Heb 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,

1Pe 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1Pe 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

We are purposed for action, we are purposed for obedience, we are purposed to have Hope.

Continuing in the book of Thessalonians, we see listed for us a purposed way to live.

v.11 We are to encourage and build up one another,

v.12-13 We are to appreciate and esteem the leaders in our church,

v.13 We are to be at peace amongst ourselves,

v.14 We are to caution those who are defiant to truth, encourage the fainthearted, care for the weak, and be patient towards all.

God’s plan for us, our purpose, is written all over scripture! If we continue in this

same section of the Word, we read that we are to rejoice always (v.16) and pray

without ceasing (v.17).

We are instructed to be thankful.

1Th 5:18 in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

This charge is not just to be thankful for some things, or when something nice has happened. It literally says ‘in everything give thanks’. When things don’t go as planned we are to be thankful knowing God has a better plan that He will bring to fruition. Even in heartache, God is still the One who is causing all things to work for our good and His glory. We have limited knowledge; He is all-knowing.

Eph 5:20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;

Accordingly, my purpose is to always be in the spirit of prayer and to be continually grateful and obedient. If God’s grace has called you to be His child, your purpose is to be His child!

We are created for good works, to bring glory to His name. To live holy lives. To treasure the life He has bestowed upon us. To honor His name in all things by our obedience. To take action in doing what the word says. To have hope for the future. To be an encourager and a peacemaker. To rejoice always and to be thankful in all things. This list is by no means exhaustive, there are many, many more scriptures that speak to our purpose. Anything and everything we are able to accomplish or have any amount of success in, is only because of God’s grace in our lives. He has purposed us to live for Him.

Php 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

2Ti 2:1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

Consider. A rooster has been purposed to crow like a rooster. A fish has been purposed to swim like a fish. A person has been created – purposed – for God’s glory. Living for Him will guide us exactly on the path He has destined for us!

The Cubbies group in our AWANA program at church had a simulated boot camp. Of course, one of the songs they sang was, ‘I’m in the Lord’s Army’. This is a great concept! Be All You Can Be – for God. Live for Him because you believe in His greater cause! This is your purpose.

A Charge to Obedience

we have been given a charge or have been appointed to receive God’s testimony. There is great responsibility on our part in accepting this gift.

Session 8, Psalm 119:138, part 1 of 2

Several weeks ago I posted a study on Psalm 119:137 titled ‘Unwavering and Upright’. This marked the beginning of the eighteenth section of Psalm 119. Verse 137 says, Righteous art Thou, O LORD, and upright are Thy judgments.

God is righteous.

His very character is righteous. God will not act outside of His character. Therefore He is the embodiment of all that is right and good. God represents perfect righteousness.

Ps 71:19 For Thy righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens, Thou who hast done great things; O God, who is like Thee?

God’s judgments are upright.

Because God is righteous, His judgments are equitable. He sees everything exactly as it truly is. His judgment is without favoritism or deception. It is perfectly fair. There is no room for questioning or deliberation.

De 32:4 "The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; a God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.

The Hebrew letter that begins each of the eight verses in Psalm 119: 137- 144, is TZADDI which is translated ‘purity’. Keep in mind the purity of God as we continue on to 138.

Ps 119:138 Thou hast commanded Thy testimonies in righteousness and exceeding faithfulness.

1. God has commanded His word to us.

2. God has commanded His word to us in righteousness.

3. God has commanded His word to us in exceeding faithfulness. (this will be included in part 2)

God has commanded His word to us. This means we have been given a charge or have been appointed to receive God’s testimony. There is great responsibility on our part in accepting this gift. Imagine being entrusted with something that has great value. What do you do with it? How do you treat it?

To be given a charge means we have been assigned a duty, we have a responsibility or an obligation to do something. God’s testimonies include all He has given to us in His word. The examples, the commands, the warnings, the encouragements, the judgments, the expectations, the hope – these are all God’s witness to us of who He is and what we are to follow. This charge or command to His children is a treasure – not hidden to find as if hunting for something valuable and unseen – but written for us to understand with the help of His Spirit and practice in His strength.

A command from God is not a question, it is an order. His children are instructed to obey His commands. De 13:4 "You shall follow the LORD your God and fear Him; and you shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him.

Consider who God is. The one and only true King. Isa 44:6 "Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel And his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides Me. When a king makes a decree to his subjects, there is no question whether it will be obeyed. In the same way, God’s chosen are not to question or think that there is a choice in following His will.

Ps 51:5-6 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. Behold, Thou dost desire truth in the innermost being, and in the hidden part Thou wilt make me know wisdom.

Ps 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Thy sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.

God has commanded His word to us in righteousness. God’s character is absolutely one hundred percent morally right. There is not one once of wrong or sin or unjust way or thought or decree in God’s being. Only God can claim absolute righteousness. And He has given His witness in all righteousness; meaning His word is right, it is pure, and it is equitable. Is there any other who is able to state a testimony of unequivocal righteousness?

God’s righteousness demands our obedience. He is worthy of our praise. Praise is our offering up of ourselves to God. Ro 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship. What does this practically look like in our lives? “We cannot confess God to be righteous unless we live uprightly and truly as he has commanded”. 1599 Geneva Bible Notes

Consider. How can our lives give glory to God? In order to live a life that offers praise to an all-holy God, we need to know who He is and what He requires of us. Consider the steps we take to become good or proficient at something. It takes time and practice to acquire a skill. Action is required to gain knowledge of something and to develop a good understanding of it. How strong is your desire to know God? What actions are you taking to improve your understanding of His word?

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