1 Peter chapter 2 and 3 Bible Study Notes

 

As we continue to study through 1 Peter, keep in mind the fact that we are New Creations in Christ Jesus, we are in this world but we are no longer of this world.  We have been delivered out of the dominion or control of the kingdom of darkness, which governs the ways of this world, and we have been brought into and are under new management, we are now citizens of heaven, children of the Living God.

Read 1 Peter chapter 2.

Peter gives us clear instructions to get rid of all evil behavior and to crave the pure spiritual milk of the word.  Remember, the reason he gives, is not to be religious but because he is still referring to Chapter 1 v 23 – “For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end.  Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.”  Therefore, we cannot afford to judge anything from a worldly point of view, which will soon pass away but we are now looking forward to eternity with our King.

Chapter 2 vs 4-12

We are Living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple.  We must always remember, that being Born Again, is the beginning of this new spiritual life, just like a baby being born, we must grow and be nourished in the things of God’s Kingdom.  For example, we don’t automatically know how to pray; we learn how to pray. 

Remember the A.B.C’s -  The building blocks of the Christian Walk -  Attitude, Behaviour and Conversation.  God is interested in these areas of our lives because all these things stem from our hearts.  

Once again Peter reminds us that Jesus was rejected by men BUT most important he was chosen by God for great honour.   It is important that we remember this principle, we too will be rejected but God says “you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation – God’s very own possession.”

Chapter 2 vs 13 – 25

These verses merit much meditation.  There are very strong spiritual principles hidden in these verses.  At first glance, they may look unimportant and not relevant to our lives today.  But if you apply the Spiritual Principle of Honour – which is “everything you do – do as unto God”.  We are his representatives at all times.  In our workplaces as well as when we are ‘doing’ God’s Work.  In other words, we are being witnesses to Jesus all the time.  Then we will take to heart these words, as we seek to follow the example of Jesus.

Take special note of these things before we read Chapter 3.

2v21.  For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you.  He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

v22.  He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone.

NOTE –  remember – there is a difference between telling the truth in love and deceiving someone.  For example, sometimes, someone might feel justified in speaking the truth, even if it will cause trouble saying “Well, I’m just telling the truth”.  We must use wisdom, which is knowing when to speak and how to speak the truth.  But there is a BIG difference to ‘deceiving’ someone.  Both of these are directly connected to the motives and intentions of the heart.

v23.  Jesus did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threatened revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.

This is the wisdom of God in action.  We cannot be the judge of anyone else, God alone is the judge.  If we try to retaliate or seek revenge – we are really saying that God is NOT Just.  This is a very serious ‘heart’ issue. 

Read Chapter 3.

Again, these verses can seem outdated and no longer relevant when compared to the modern worldly ways BUT they become very relevant when we keep in mind, we are NOT of this world, we belong to God’s Kingdom.  Authority is NOT the same as control.  We must understand the difference.  The Spiritual Principle of Honour is applicable in every area of our lives, including our personal relationships.  A wife is not just being a wife to her husband – but is also honouring God in her relationship and likewise the husband. 

Now in vs 8-9 – Peter tells us once again to follow the example of Jesus.

Take special note of vs 10 – 12. – Notice what actions we take that cause blessing upon our lives including answered prayers.

It is important that we do not get distracted by ‘suffering’.  We must remember that God is our judge and he is our rewarder.  At all times, we must keep our attention on Jesus, who even though he had no sin of his own, died to pay the penalty of all sin.  He suffered in our place. 

Deuteronomy 32v4                       

Psalm 140 v12                   

Romans 12v19

Ephesians 6v9                                    

Proverbs 14v32                 

1 Corinthians 6v19-20

1 Corinthians 10v31                        

Ephesians 6v1-2                

Mark 12v17

Romans 13v7                                      

Titus 3v1                              

Ephesians 5v1-2

Colossians 3v13                                 

1 John 2v6                          

Psalm 34v19-20

Remember this, we are not promised anywhere in the Bible that we will not suffer any affliction, but we are promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us.  We do not have all the answers, but we must always hold fast to the Rock of our Salvation, being careful to keep the Word of God as our highest authority. 

Circumstances DO NOT change the Word of God – BUT – the Word of God can change our circumstances.

GOD CAN NOT LIE