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The Story: The prophets of the Old Testament received just enough of God’s revelation to understand that salvation was coming, and that it was coming through a Suffering One, and that because of His suffering subsequent glories would redound to all who believed. That’s about as close as they could get to understanding what we as believers pretty much take for granted. But notice how Peter says they “searched and inquired carefully.” This mystery of salvation, this wonder of suffering, these abounding glories to come – this was beautiful to consider, and the prophets eagerly sought from God’s Spirit more insight, more understanding, and more glimpses of the saving glory of our suffering King. We can imagine them pleading in prayer, poring over scrolls and books of the Old Testament, and eagerly consulting one another for more insight and understanding. If only we were as eager to learn about our salvation as they were.
The Structure: The Church in America today could hardly be described as “suffering” for our faith. And yet where do we encounter much “inexpressible joy” or such eagerness in studying and learning about our salvation as Peter describes in this first chapter? Have we lost sight of the greatness of salvation? Do we take for granted the “inheritance” that is being kept for us? Is the “beatific vision” merely something to chat about, rather than a daily experience of breath-taking glory? Peter’s epistle should put us to shame for our “good as it gets” approach to Christian faith, and should inspire us to achieve more of the faith and power that these first Christians knew – even if we must attain these through suffering.
Would you describe yourself as “eager” to learn more about your salvation? How do you express that eagerness?
Each week’s studies in our Scriptorium column are available in a free PDF form, suitable for personal or group use. For this week’s study, “Suffering and Beyond: 1 Peter 1.1-11,” simply click here..
T. M. Moore
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. © Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.