Introduction: 1 Peter 2 encourages believers to grow spiritually and live honorably among others. Writing to early Christians, Peter reminds them of their identity in Christ, urging them to cast aside their former ways and embrace their new life. The apostle outlines the moral and social conduct expected of believers, emphasizing submission, and respect for authority. He points to Jesus as the ultimate example of righteous living and suffering for good. Peter’s powerful and inspirational message calls Christians to be a beacon of hope and to stand firm in their faith.
I. Spiritual Growth and the Living Stone (1 Peter 2:1-8)
In these verses, Peter tells believers to shed all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. Like newborn babies, Christians should crave pure spiritual milk to grow in their salvation. Peter describes Jesus as the living cornerstone, chosen by God but rejected by men. Believers who trust in Him will not be put to shame. Those who do not believe, however, stumble over Him as a stone of offense, fulfilling scripture.
Cross-references:
- Psalm 34:8 (“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.”) illustrates the satisfaction found in Christ.
- Isaiah 28:16 (“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.”) prophesies Jesus as the cornerstone.
- Matthew 21:42 (“Jesus said to them, ‘Have you never read in the Scriptures: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes”?’”) shows Jesus speaking of Himself as the fulfillment of prophecy.
II. A Chosen People and Holy Nation (1 Peter 2:9-10)
Peter addresses believers as a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and God’s special possession. They are called out of darkness to declare God’s praises. Once they were not a people, but now they are God’s people, once without mercy, but now they have received mercy.
Cross-references:
- Exodus 19:6 (“you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”) speaks of God’s intention for His people.
- Hosea 1:10 (“Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted…”) refers to God’s restoration of His people.
- Romans 9:25-26 (“As he says in Hosea…”) Paul quotes Hosea, reinforcing the theme of God’s mercy.
III. Living Good Lives Among the Pagans (1 Peter 2:11-12)
Peter urges Christians to live as foreigners here, abstaining from sinful desires that wage war against the soul. They should live good lives among unbelievers so that, even if they are accused of wrongdoing, they may see the believers’ good deeds and glorify God.
Cross-references:
- Galatians 5:24 (“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”) supports the idea of overcoming sinful desires.
- Matthew 5:16 (“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”) emphasizes doing good to glorify God.
- Titus 2:12 (“It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”) calls for righteous living.
IV. Submission to Authority (1 Peter 2:13-17)
Believers are instructed to submit to every human authority, including the emperor as the supreme authority and governors. This submission is God’s will, and by doing good, they will silence ignorant talk. They are to live as free people, but not using freedom as a cover-up for evil, showing proper respect to everyone and loving the brotherhood of believers.
Cross-references:
- Romans 13:1-2 (“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities…”) discusses the Christian’s relationship to human authorities.
- Titus 3:1 (“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.”) emphasizes obedience and readiness to do good.
- Galatians 5:13 (“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”) warns against misusing freedom.
V. Christ’s Example in Suffering (1 Peter 2:18-25)
Peter calls on servants to submit to their masters with all respect, not only to the good and considerate but also to the harsh. He explains that suffering for doing good is commendable before God, following Christ’s example, who suffered for us, leaving us an example to follow. Jesus committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. He bore our sins on the cross so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness. By His wounds, we are healed. Peter reminds believers that they were like sheep going astray, but now they have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of their souls.
Cross-references:
- Isaiah 53:5-6 (“But he was pierced for our transgressions…”) prophesies Christ’s suffering and its purpose.
- Hebrews 12:2-3 (“fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith…”) encourages believers to consider Jesus’ endurance through suffering.
- Matthew 20:28 (“just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”) shows Jesus as the servant leader and sacrificial lamb.
Conclusion: The second chapter of 1 Peter gives us a compelling call to spiritual growth, holy living, and respectful conduct. Believers are reminded of their identity in Christ, their purpose as God’s chosen people, and the importance of living exemplary lives among non-believers. Submission to authority is underscored as a testimony to their faith, while Christ’s suffering serves as the supreme example of endurance and righteousness. This chapter inspires Christians to embrace their calling, persevere through trials, and maintain a steadfast commitment to God’s principles.
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