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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 21, 2019 1:48:07 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:2, 20 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2019 Friday, 20 December 2019 Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 1 Peter 5:2 Peter now instructs the elders to “Shepherd the flock of God.” The word is fitting. It means to tend to the flock. It is inclusive of all aspects of caring for the flock – feeding them, leading them, protecting them, bringing them to safety, and so on. It is the responsibility of the shepherd to do all of these things for those in his care. It is what Jesus told Peter to do in John 21. Using two different words, He said for Peter to first boskó, or feed His sheep. He then used the same word Peter uses now, poimainó, or shepherd. Then, a third time, Jesus told Peter to boskó, or feed, His sheep. Peter is probably looking back on that exchange and considering it while writing to the elders now. Shepherding is something he was commanded to do by the Lord, and now he is passing on that important precept for those who will also care for those under them. As he says, it is inclusive of all in the flock “which is among you.” Each elder is in a position of influence. Whatever size of the flock, that is what the Lord has given them for their care. Thus, in this capacity he says they are to be “serving as overseers.” The Greek is a single word which signifies to look upon, or to focus upon with concerned interest. The elders are to actively look at the state of each person and know what is going on in their lives. After this, Peter says, “not by compulsion but willingly.” The words are well translated. An elder shouldn’t have to be forced to do these things, but rather he should – of his own accord – desire to tend to, and look after, those under him. To do less would bring about an unhappy relationship between the two, and eventually the flock he is to care for will wander away. The verse then finishes with, “not for dishonest gain but eagerly.” Peter uses an adverb found only here in Scripture, but it stems from the same word Paul uses as an adjective in 1 Timothy 3:8 and Titus 1:7 in exactly the same context. It means to be eager for base gain. Rather than being eager for getting rich, the elders are to be eager to care for others, watching over them and ensuring their needs are met first. Life application: The qualities of an elder are to be the qualities of a shepherd – 1) A shepherd feeds his sheep with their necessary food. He leads them, but he also searches for those who stray, prods along the slow pokes, and is tender to his sheep. He spends an enormous amount of time with his flock and gets very little in return for his efforts. He works under the blazing sun of the day and through the cold of the night. He cares for them in the rain and during the snows that fall. But he also looks at the magnificent stars placed in the heavens and enjoys the smells and sounds of the wilderness – fresh grass, howling animals, birds alone and birds in flocks. A shepherd takes time to appreciate the created majesty around his flock and thus learns to appreciate his flock even more. 2) He is to oversee the affairs of his flock willingly and cheerfully. If a pastor is in a denomination with a hierarchy and he is assigned a cruddy location, for example, he is to accept his duties as having been directed by God, to accomplish them for His glory, and not out of a grudging sense of getting to the next pastorate. 3) Finally, he is to work according to the strict principles of honesty and for the fair wage he is allowed, never looking for inappropriate gain. Any pastor or evangelist who promises his flock “a financial blessing” in return for sending him money is dishonest and should be immediately rejected as unqualified and untrustworthy. Lord God, we can imagine how difficult it is to cheerfully shepherd a flock in the church, and so we pray that You give us the desire to be good to our leaders in the church, and to support them in every way which will encourage them. May we be examples to the other believers around us so that they will feel the same way about this. May our actions in this bring them the comfort and relief they need. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 22, 2019 1:20:14 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:3, 21 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2019 Saturday, 21 December 2019 … nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 1 Peter 5:3 Peter continues with his words of proper conduct for the elders that he is addressing. In this verse, he adds to what he has already said with, “nor as being lords.” The translation here is better stated as, “not lording it.” One who is a lord over another may or may not be heavy-handed. The intent of Peter’s words is that elders, though appointed over others, are not to act in a demeaning or tyrannical way towards those under them. The phrase Peter uses, which is translated as “those entrusted to you,” is literally “over the lots.” In other words, it is an assigned portion. When Israel went into the land of Canaan, the land was divided by lots. The Lord oversaw the division (see Proverbs 16:33), so that everything was left to His providence, not mere chance. The same is true with each person who falls under the authority of an elder. The Lord provides the flock according to His wisdom. For those who are so entrusted to an elder, Peter then says that rather than lording it over them, they should be “examples to the flock.” It is the same word for “flock” that he just used in the previous verse. This is its fifth and last use in Scripture. Jesus first used it in Luke 12:32. From there, Paul twice used it in almost the same way that Peter uses it now in Acts 20 – “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to 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. 29 For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.” Acts 20:28-30 Paul’s words were to those at Ephesus. Both Acts 18 and 19 make it clear that the gospel Paul preached went to both Jew and Gentile and it was received by both. There, the church at Ephesus was established as such. Peter’s words reflect the same gospel, and the same terminology, concerning the body of believers as Paul. There is one flock and one gospel which goes to both Jew and Gentile, and the elders of this body are given charge over all under them for care and right doctrine. This then shows, once again, that the doctrine of dividing the church into two gospels, one for Jew and one for Gentile, is both false and heretical. Life application: Power, even a little bit of it, is an intoxicant. When people come up to a pastor, week after week seeking resolutions to their problems, bringing compliments on a great sermon, or seeking favor within the church, it can certainly lead to a feeling of superiority over those under them. The larger the church, the more susceptible to this one will often become. But it is not limited to larger churches. Congregations of 30 or 40 people can often be at the most risk of falling prey to charismatic leaders. The attendees willingly give up their identity and are led down the paths of evil conjured up by a devil with a stronger will. This was the case with cults such as Heaven’s Gate, the Branch Davidians, etc. Congregants need to constantly evaluate the direction of the pastor to ensure he is sticking to the Bible and following the admonitions laid out for his position. Pastors likewise need to evaluate themselves and determine if they have strayed from what is sound and appropriate. Having a faithful confidant, who will be willing to call to account any diversion from the right path, is useful and wise. The Old Testament kings had prophets and seers who would openly speak to them about what was right, to hopefully direct them back from wrong choices. Leading a congregation is a sacred trust, and the Lord holds those in authority to a higher standard of judgment. So, watch your elders, and help keep them humble while honoring them for their faithful service. Lord, we certainly wouldn’t attend the churches we are at without respecting our pastors. We find them to be faithful leaders, and so we stay and faithfully attend. Today, we pray for those given to lead us. Keep their hearts humble and their eyes focused on You. Keep them faithfully proclaiming Your word. May our congregations be lights in the darkness of the communities around us. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 23, 2019 0:20:37 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:4, 22 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2019 Sunday, 22 December 2019 …and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. 1 Peter 5:4 Peter is speaking to the elders (5:1), and he is continuing his exhortation to them to properly shepherd the flock which is entrusted to them. He now finishes this thought by saying, “and when the Chief Shepherd appears.” It is a passive aorist participle which would be more correctly translated as “And the Chief Shepherd having been revealed…” It signifies that He is currently concealed from us, but at some point, that will change. The veil which conceals Him will be removed, and He will be presented in all of His glory. It is a verse which implicitly tells us that “visions” or “visitations” of Jesus at this time are untrue. Christ is, at present, not revealed to His flock. Peter’s words reveal that Christ is, like the elders he is addressing, a Shepherd over His flock. This is already seen in several ways elsewhere in the use of the term “Shepherd” when speaking of Him, or “flock” when speaking of those under Him. The New Testament assigns three different adjectives to Jesus’ title as the “Shepherd” – Good Shepherd – John 10:11 Great Shepherd – Hebrews 13:20 Chief Shepherd – 1 Peter 5:4 Today Peter calls him the “Chief” Shepherd. The word used in Greek is archipoimén. The prefix archó signifies to reign or rule. Peter is using this term to show the preeminent position of Christ Jesus in the role of shepherd. He has done this because, in verses 1-3, he has been addressing elders or “shepherds” of individual churches. Those elders who are shepherds are obviously subordinate to Christ. But more, Peter never goes beyond that, to imply some type of hierarchy where he is a chief among them. There is simply the Chief Shepherd and all other shepherds after him. Hence, there is no hierarchy. Peter notes to them that at the appearing of Christ, the Chief Shepherd, “you will receive the crown of glory.” This ties directly back to verse 5:1 where he said, “I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed.” Peter is reminding them that their trials, faithful care of the flock, and patient endurance was a small thing compared to what lies ahead. Christ suffered, but he then entered His glory. So shall it be for those who are in Christ. The term “crown of glory” does not necessarily mean that shepherds will wear a literal crown based on their office. Rather, it could simply be a metaphorical way of describing the glory which will adorn them. A crown is a symbol of honor and achievement, but there is no need to take the instances of the word “crown” given in the New Testament epistles as literal crowns that people will walk around with. Whether the crowns are literal, or simply stand as metaphors of the state of glory which lies ahead, Peter says that it is a “glory that does not fade away.” Here he uses a word, amarantinos, which is unique to this verse in the New Testament. It substantially comes from aramanths, a type of flower which was used in ancient times to refer to that which never fades away. HELPS Word Studies notes, “The amaranth flower has incredible resiliency (ability to endure). It easily revives when moistened, even after it is uprooted.” Thus, it was symbolic of perpetuity and immortality. The suffix Peter applies to the word connects the elders to this unfading glory of God which is bestowed upon them. Life application: What Christ promises His redeemed is something eternal and unfading. All of our earthly treasures will fade, but such will not be the case concerning what lies ahead. For those leaders within the church who are faithful, something much greater will replace all that they have suffered through or been blessed with. If you are a shepherd of a flock, be careful to lead faithfully – the Lord is watching and will reward or judge your actions. We look to You as our Chief Shepherd, Lord Jesus. Our eyes and our hearts are set upon the joy of the day when You appear and lead us to our eternal dwelling. Until that day, may our earthly shepherds faithfully execute their duties so that You will be glorified by them. Praises be to You, now and forever! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 24, 2019 1:35:34 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:5, 23 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2019 Monday, 23 December 2019 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5 Peter now turns from the elders to those younger in the congregation. As he says, “Likewise you younger people.” This, however, can include those younger in the faith, even if older in years. The word signifies young and youthful, but also new. Rather than new in quality, it is something new in time. This would be inclusive of all who are not elders then. Even those in subordinate offices, such as deacons and the like. Peter says to them to “submit yourselves to your elders.” This is the same word that was used in 5:1 when speaking of the elders, and so it is a confirming note that this is referring to all who are younger in the faith in relation to those who are more mature. Submission to them does not mean blind obedience, but a respectful attitude concerning their authority and the position they hold. Paul, when writing to Timothy, said that those in such positions are to “be counted worthy of double honor” (1 Timothy 5:17). This is the general idea that Peter now also puts forth. Peter then goes further by saying, “Yes, all of you be submissive to one another.” This is directed to all, from the elders down to the newest member in the congregation. There should be a humble spirit which permeates all. Those of wealth should not assume they have a more important position than those who are poor. And those who hold high secular office are to be submissive even to those who clean bathrooms. Paul speaks in the same way several times, such as in the following verses – “…giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.” Ephesians 5:20, 21 & “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3, 4 Peter then says to all to “be clothed with humility.” The word translated as “clothed” is found only here in Scripture. It signifies girding oneself. Figuratively then, it signifies the apron which was worn as a badge of servitude, even that worn by a slave. Peter must have been thinking of the last supper as he wrote out these words – “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, 4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.” John 13:3-5 He had seen God’s Messiah do exactly what he is now telling his reader to do. The scholar Bengel writes of these words, “Put on and wrap yourselves about with humility, so that the covering of humility cannot possibly be stripped from you.” Finally, Peter says – “for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’” Like in Chapter 4, Peter goes to the wisdom of the Proverbs. This is the same quote that was made in James 4:6. It is a quote from Proverbs 3:34. The idea is that by dropping one’s prideful attitude, and by pursuing the course laid out by God, rather than that of this world, God’s grace can and will be fully realized. This thought looks to the working of the Spirit in the person, when he is walking as he should, in a covenant relationship with God. Such a walk includes walking in humility before others, dropping all sense of pride, and acting in the same humble manner as Christ did by acting in service of others. Life application: All of us are to submit to one another and give honor and respect in all directions. We should keep in mind that not everyone is going to follow this advice, and many people, due to a lack of knowing the Bible, would think this a foreign idea. However, submission has to start somewhere. Because of this, it is up to those who know God’s word, and have taken Peter’s advice to heart to be the initiators. Submission doesn’t mean allowing oneself to be abused or misused by others, but it does include overlooking slight offenses and unintentional breeches of courtesy towards one another. In the quote from Proverbs, we see the reason for this congenial and meek attitude – it is because God resists the proud. He does this actively. Pride is the great destroyer of fellowship with Him, and between us and others. When pride steps into the room, a joyous and happy atmosphere quickly fades away. In contrast, God gives grace to the humble. This means that God’s unmerited favor rests on those who are humble and contrite in spirit. We still fall short of His merit; thus, the term “grace” is used. But God notices our attitude and lavishes His caring and guiding love upon us when we act in this manner towards others. If we receive it from acting this way in a sympathetic environment, how much more in an unfriendly one! Be humble, submit to one another, and love the Lord your God with all your heart. God attends to those who act in such a way. Lord Jesus, you know how hard it is for us to be submissive at times, especially when it involves someone who is less than kind in his demeanor. But God, give us grace to act in the way Your word tells us to act. May our lives be a testament to the grace shown us at the cross and the grace You continue to show us as we act properly towards those around us. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 25, 2019 2:17:13 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:6, 24 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2019 Tuesday, 24 December 2019 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 1 Peter 5:6 Peter just quoted the proverb which noted that God resists the proud, but He gives grace to the humble. With that thought in mind, he says, “Therefore.” In other words, “Because of what Scripture clearly teaches, pay heed to the words I now give.” From that thought, he says to his audience, “humble yourselves.” If God gives grace to the humble, then it is appropriate that believers should humble themselves. But more, he continues with, “under the mighty hand of God.” Peter had just stated that “all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility” (5:5). Now, his words of this verse imply that being submissive to one another is to humble oneself under God’s mighty hand. In other words, what we do before others in regard to humility is seen as an act of humility before God. The two are not separate, but are rather tied together. God is aware of our actions and His hand of power is there with us through our acts of humility. Peter then notes the purpose of referring to His mighty hand by saying, “that He may exalt you in due time.” If there is some supposed shame in one humbling himself before others, there will be a grant of exaltation by God at some point for that same act. Jesus’ words, repeated several times in the gospels under various circumstances, were surely on Peter’s mind as he wrote out these words. One such time is found in Luke 14– So He told a parable to those who were invited, when He noted how they chose the best places, saying to them: 8 “When you are invited by anyone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in the best place, lest one more honorable than you be invited by him; 9 and he who invited you and him come and say to you, ‘Give place to this man,’ and then you begin with shame to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you. 11 For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11 Life application: God resists the proud. By demonstrating pride, we alienate ourselves from the Creator. He is the glorious One who set the stars in place, made bumblebees, and gave each of us our abilities. All things are from Him and therefore all credit is due Him; pride is excluded. God gives grace to the humble. One should humble himself under the mighty hand of God. When we humble ourselves before the Creator, He lavishes on us unmerited favor; His grace. However, He doesn’t do this when we stand and act pious in front of others as a mere show. Instead, He searches our hearts and minds and He extends His grace to those who truly walk in a humble and contrite manner, recognizing His sovereignty in all things. When we humble ourselves in His presence, we not only receive grace for the day, but a future blessing is also set aside for us. There is a glorious day coming when the trumpet shall sound, and all the saints of the ages will be translated. At this time, we will stand at the judgment seat of Christ and receive our rewards and losses based on our conduct in Christ. May we be about His business until that glorious (Oh yes! That glorious) day! Lord Jesus, look on us with the favor promised so long ago through the prophet Isaiah – “‘For all those things My hand has made, And all those things exist,’ Says the LORD. ‘But on this one will I look: On him who is poor and of a contrite spirit, And who trembles at My word.’” May You be glorified as we walk humbly and in contrition before You. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 26, 2019 1:44:21 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:7, 25 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2019 Wednesday, 25 December 2019 …casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.1 Peter 5:7 Peter now makes somewhat of a paraphrase of the Greek version of Psalm 55:22. The Hebrew version reads – “Cast your burden on the Lord, And He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” In this, Peter completes the thought which began in the previous verse by saying, “casting all your care upon Him.” The word translated as “care” signifies a part separated from the whole, and thus “anxiety.” It is that which divides and fractures a person’s being into parts. The translation “casting” gives an active and ongoing sense, but the word is an aorist participle, and thus “having cast” is more appropriate. It signifies one act which is effective for all time. One takes the whole of his life’s anxiety and casts it upon Christ. From this point, the anxiety should rightly no longer be a concern. Peter then explains the thought by saying, “for He cares for you.” Here, the word “care” is different than “cares” in the first clause. It signifies being an object of care. One could say, “because He takes an interest in you,” or “because He is concerned about you.” Vincent’s Word Studies notes that “The sixth and seventh verses should be taken together: Humble yourselves and cast all your anxiety. Pride is at the root of most of our anxiety. To human pride it is humiliating to cast everything upon another and be cared for.” Understanding this, the whole thought was presented by Jesus in Matthew 6. Peter is, once again, thinking about the words of the Lord for those who were under law, and he is now showing that Christ – the fulfillment of the law – is the One to whom our anxiety is to be cast – “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 28 “So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:25-34 Life application: Peter remembers the tender care the Lord showed for him after the resurrection. Jesus restored him even though he had three times denied Him on the night of the crucifixion. Peter, as well as anyone else, could honestly say that Jesus truly cares for the people of the world. While writing today’s words, he may have also thought of another time when Jesus spoke to Israel – “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 These words echo down through the ages. If you are hurting, troubled, anxious, and distraught over life in general, or overburdened with the difficulties around you, Jesus tells you where to find rest. Likewise, Peter tells us how to obtain that rest. Cast your care upon the Lord, and in place of them take up His easy yoke. We are told to do these things because He truly cares for us. He is the Shepherd of the sheep Who was willing to lay down His life for us. How much more now, since the resurrection, can we find complete assurance in His tender care. Take your trouble and hand it over to the Lord. In its place, ask for His peace and contentment in the challenges you anticipate. When you mentally make the leap that Jesus really can do these things, you will come to the place where nothing can truly steal your joy. Yes, cast your cares upon the Lord, for He cares for you. Here we are Jesus, facing another day of trials and burdens. Instead of facing them alone, we place them in Your tender care. Handle them for us and give us the peace – that true peace – which can only come from You. We thank You for leading the way through this veil of tears and bringing us safely to a place of happiness and contentment. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 27, 2019 1:34:30 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:8, 26 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2019 Thursday, 26 December 2019 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 1 Peter 5:8 Peter now begins two verses of warning. He had just noted that the believer was to have cast all of his cares upon the Lord. But now he shows that despite being carefree of anxieties, we are not to be carefree in our walk. This is because there is an enemy who lurks about us. And so, he says, “Be sober.” It is a word now used for the last of six times, three by Paul and three by Peter. It speaks of literal soberness, but that then extends to being clear-minded, free from the intoxicating influences of sin, and etc. A good positive thought to describe it is to have one’s wits about them and to think clearly and rationally. Next, he says, “be vigilant.” The word used signifies to be awake and watchful. It is what Jesus said the disciples failed to do in the Garden of Gethsemane. Like Peter, Paul used both of these Greek words in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, where he says, “Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober.” Peter then gives the reason for this beginning with, “because your adversary.” The Greek word, antidikos, comes from two words meaning “against justice.” It is one who brings charges against another, as if in a lawsuit. He is seeking formal charges against another. In this, the word “adversary” speaks in legal terms then. This is the only time it is used in the New Testament when speaking of “the devil.” The term, “the devil,” signifies an accuser, but more especially a false accuser who purposefully maligns others in order to sever relationships. Peter says that this wicked one “walks about.” The thought comes directly from Job 1:7 – “And the Lord said to Satan, ‘From where do you come?’ So Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.’” The devil doesn’t just sit idly by and wait for someone to fall into his snare. Rather, he actively goes about seeking targets. Vincent’s Word Studies notes that the Arabs call him “the Busy One.” He is active and he is malicious, as is evidenced by the words, “like a roaring lion.” Peter uses a word found only here in Scripture, óruomai. It is an onomatopoetic expression; the sound of the word represents what it speaks of. In this case, it is to roar or howl. Albert Barnes says of this – “The lion here is not the crouching lion - the lion stealthfully creeping toward his foe - but it is the raging monarch of the woods, who by his terrible roar would intimidate all so that they might become an easy prey. The particular thing referred to here, doubtless, is persecution, resembling in its terrors a roaring lion.” It is a good analogy. The believer has cast his cares upon the Lord. In this, there is a feeling of safety and security. But without being vigilant and sober, such a carefree person can suddenly get overcome by a great and terrible foe. Such a vociferous and strong foe has one thought in mind, which is to seek “whom he may devour.” A hungry, roaring lion has one thing on its mind, to feed himself. Whoever or whatever gets in his way will face his anger until he satisfies that hunger. But Peter’s words indicate that the devil is always walking about and roaring. He is like the fire which consumes until all is gone. There is never a point where he is satisfied and retreats to his lair. Thus, there is to always be a state of constant vigilance by the believer. Peter will give further admonition concerning this fierce foe in the verse ahead. Life application: Earlier in the chapter, the role of the shepherd was discussed. He is the one who tends to the sheep. However, when the sheep are in the fold and a lion roars, they may be scared into flight – away from the rest of the sheep. This leaves them as easy prey. The devil is looking to devour anyone he can, and it is far easier to go after someone who isn’t fellowshipping with other believers, attending church and Bible studies, and actively engaged in other Christian activities. The devil is looking for just this sort of person to tempt – whether through pride or lust – into his trap. Once they are there, they have nothing of substance to fall back on. This doesn’t mean such a person can lose his salvation, but depending on the sin, he could lose his marriage, his freedom in society, or even his life. This is exactly what Satan wants. By accomplishing this, he can bring discredit on the name of Jesus. Determine now to be ever-vigilant, awake, and watchful, lest you become a victim of the devil’s wiles. Lord Jesus, in You we have the victory. By staying in Your word and in fellowship with other believers, we know that there is safety. Help us to prioritize our lives so that we don’t let the necessary things be put off for that which is far less important. Keep us on the path of righteousness so that the devil has no ability to come after us with his temptations. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 28, 2019 1:59:18 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:9, 27 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2019 Friday, 27 December 2019 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. 1 Peter 5:9 Peter continues with his words concerning the devil from the previous verse. Here he says, “Resist him.” The word is different than that translated as “resist” in verse 5:5. It more appropriately means “withstand,” and thus to stand one’s ground. One might think of it as standing face to face with the devil and saying, “Not an inch…!” But the verb here is second person plural. He is not speaking to individuals, but to the whole. And so, to bolster this, he says, “steadfast in the faith.” The word is stereos, and it is the last of four uses in the Bible. It signifies standing fast without buckling. As he is addressing a whole, one could think of the three hundred soldiers at Thermopylae who closed ranks and held their position against countless thousands. Believers are to close the ranks of their group, stand firm, look the devil in the eye, and let him know that not an inch of ground will be yielded. Then, to give his reader a note of confidence, he continues with, “knowing that the same sufferings are experienced.” Vincent’s Word Studies notes the peculiar construction of the words, which is ignored by almost all translations. It more literally reads, “the same things the sufferings.” Darby says, “the selfsame sufferings.” The GNT says, “the same kind of sufferings.” The stress is on the similarity between the sufferings of various groups of believers. It is a hint that the devil employs the same tired tactics again and again. If believers simply pay heed to the word, they will understand this, be aware of his actions, and be able to stand firm in the face of his onslaughts. Peter then says that these selfsame sufferings are “experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” It is a correct rendering, brotherhood. This is its second and last use in Scripture. It speaks of the church in a collective sense. What is experienced by those in the church is not only in isolated instances, but it is common to the brotherhood throughout the church. Peter’s words are then a note that if others are facing such things, and if they are able to prevail, then so can those who are reading his words. The force of his words is that of unity of determination in standing against the devil. Life application: Peter tells the individual believer that no matter what we are going through, other believers in the world are going through the same things elsewhere. He certainly knows that this doesn’t lessen our own suffering, but it should help in the sense that at least we know we are not alone in what we are dealing with. God isn’t allowing something unique to overtake you, and your burden is something that you can – in fact – deal with. So, stand fast in the faith you have, and resist what the devil is sending your way. Paul spoke in the same terms as Peter does in Ephesians 6. Here is a portion of that for you to consider – “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10-13 When we face the temptations or the sufferings the devil sends our way, we need to be prepared for them by putting on “the whole armor of God.” The only way we can do this is to be prepared in advance. If we don’t know the Bible, then when the time of trial comes, we cannot use it for our defense. If we haven’t developed strong faith, we can’t exercise it when needed. Now is the time for us to prepare for life’s trials. Stand firm and steadfast, grounded in the gospel of your salvation. Lord Jesus, You know our trials and temptations all too well. You know the areas where we are lacking the proper discipline to handle more. So, Lord, be with us and protect us from the rage of the devil. Be our Shield and our Defender as we head through the maze of life’s challenges. Thank You Lord Jesus. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 29, 2019 0:05:42 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:10, 28 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2019 Saturday, 28 December 2019 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. 1 Peter 5:10 Peter has been speaking of the necessity to be vigilant because the devil is out there and looking for a meal, and Christians are his meal to devour if he can get the upper hand over them. From there, he exhorted the brotherhood to remain steadfast, resisting the devil with the understanding that his attacks are not unique to individuals, but are the same throughout the brotherhood. As this is so, he now provides words of comfort, beginning with, “But may the God of all grace.” The words here speak of God as being the Source of grace. No matter how much grace is exhibited, it could not be done so without Him first demonstrating it. All other grace is a shadowy reflection of His. The words also speak of God as the giver of all needed grace for the believer in Christ. No grace is lacking, even for the greatest afflictions we face. Paul came to understand this thought now conveyed by Peter – “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 8 Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. 9 And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 This is why, in the same epistle, Paul could say to those at Corinth words comparable to those written by Peter now – “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8 It is this God, who is the Source of all such grace, He is the same God who provides such grace and “who called us to His eternal glory.” Those who believe have been called. This is reflective of Paul’s words to those at Rome – “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.” Romans 8:28-30 This calling, as noted by both Paul and Peter, is to a state of glory. Peter says, “to His eternal glory.” Paul says that the calling leads to being glorified. Both speak of the doctrine of eternal salvation. God doesn’t call, justify, and glorify potentially. He does so actually. There is no hint in the writings of Scripture that God will fail to glorify those He has called. The idea is abhorrent to the very nature of God and His calling. Peter next says, “by Christ Jesus.” The Greek reads, “in Christ Jesus,” though some manuscripts leave off the name “Jesus” and simply say “in Christ.” God has done all of the work necessary, as an act of grace, and He has done it in the sphere of the Person and work of Christ. This extends beyond His physical Person to the concept of what He would do, as was explicitly prophesied in Genesis 3:15 and from that point on. The “spirit of Christ” is seen throughout Scripture, and it is this sphere in which God has called us to His eternal glory. With this understanding, Peter then notes the temporary state in relation to that eternal aspect by saying, “after you have suffered a while.” This is what he has referred to throughout his epistle, but specifically in the past two verses. Though the devil will cause believers to suffer, it is a part of God’s plan to allow it to happen. But at some point, God will “perfect” His people. Unfortunately, the NKJV, following the KJV, leaves off an important possessive pronoun – “Himself.” It should say something like, “the God of all grace shall … Himself make you perfect.” There is a personal touch which is blown to smithereens by any translation which excludes this pronoun. God is personally interested in His people. He is aware of their sufferings, and He Himself will bring those things to an end, perfecting His people. The very sufferings which we face, and which seem too overwhelming to us are the same things which a part of leading us to being perfected. It is the refiner’s fire which purifies the metal. In like manner, the afflictions God allows provide us with a spiritual refining, if we will allow them to be used in this manner. Peter then says, “establish.” The word gives the sense of setting something fast. It becomes immovable. In this, there is no vacillation, but a complete establishment of the person. Without such sufferings, this would be lacking. Next, he says, “strengthen.” The verb is only found here in the Bible and follows after the previous word in intent. It is to make strong or confirm in spiritual power and knowledge. The learning process which is found in suffering leads to a confirmed state of understanding. The believer can look at the process and exclaim, “I fully grasp why these things occurred.” In such knowledge, Peter says, “and settle you.” The word signifies “to lay the foundation.” Everything that occurs in a seemingly negative sense is actually something that has led the believer through a process leading to a positive establishment of his foundation. Remember that it is God who personally is involved in the process, and He is doing it in Christ Jesus. As this is so, we should attempt to always view the world, and what occurs to us, in that most positive and glorious light. Life application: As is found throughout the Bible, even dozens of times in the New Testament, Christians who have been called to God’s eternal glory can and should expect to suffer. Churches that teach otherwise and that promise oodles of earthly blessings without trials should be dismissed. Expecting trials and sufferings should be the norm, not the exception. It is these very times that demonstrate God’s grace in our lives. Furthermore, it is these trials that mold us into that image our Creator desires for us. There is no shame in sufferings and in fact the opposite is true. Even more, taking trials with grace is pleasing to God who set the example for us in the cross of Jesus. A noteworthy example from our own time is Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ. In his later years, Bill got pulmonary fibrosis of the lungs which caused him great suffering and eventually led to his death. However, during the ordeal, he never lost his testimony for Christ or his expectation of being perfected, established, strengthened, and settled. His example, along with countless other faithful believers, is noteworthy and demonstrates a true and sound faith. These people encourage us that the promises of the Lord transcend even final suffering and death. There is a great day coming when our physical pains will be set aside for everlasting joy. Our headaches, backaches, cancers, and other diseases will be no more. As the book of Revelation triumphantly proclaims – “And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4 When you are suffering, in whatever form, be of the attitude that it is serving a good purpose. Determine to reflect Christ, even in your time of affliction. God has trusted you to accomplish a personal demonstration of grace on His behalf. Heavenly Father, despite our trials and sufferings, may our lives be examples to others of the grace You have lavished upon us. May our times of trials lead others to understand that Your sovereign purposes are being worked out, even in each of us. Be with us during these times so that You will be glorified. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 30, 2019 2:51:48 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:11, 29 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2019 Sunday, 29 December 2019 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 5:11 Here, Peter pens forth a doxology of great praise and honor. But there is a question which arises, and which must be resolved right at the beginning of it. He says, “To Him.” Who is Peter speaking of here? If you review the previous verses, and if you are stuck in a particular theology, your answer may be biased. Or, if you are unsure, it may be hard to decide. The previous verse said, “But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.” So, is Peter speaking of God or of Jesus? Jesus is the nearest antecedent, but God is the main subject of the verse. Before reading further in the comments, think about it, decide, and have in mind why you made your decision. With your decision in mind, be it “God” or “Jesus,” Peter says, “To Him be the glory.” If you chose “God,” is it because to Him alone belongs the glory? This is surely true. It is stated explicitly in Isaiah 42:8 and 48:11 – I am the Lord, that is My name; And My glory I will not give to another, Nor My praise to carved images. & For My own sake, for My own sake, I will do it; For how should My name be profaned? And I will not give My glory to another. Peter is a Jew, writing to Jews (1 Peter 1:1). For Him to speak of the glory belonging to anyone but God would be the epitome of blasphemy. His recipients would quickly track him down, stone him to death, and then pile up a heap of stones over his broken body. So “God” is surely correct. And so, he continues with, “and the dominion.” In 1 Timothy 6:16, Paul says – “…who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.” It is clear that Jesus has been seen, and that He can be seen. Therefore, Paul is speaking of God. But there he speaks of God’s everlasting power using the same word, kratos, as Peter does in this verse. Therefore, Peter must be speaking of God. For him to ascribe the “dominion,” meaning “power,” to Jesus would once again bring on the wrath of his fellow Jews for ascribing something which belongs to God alone to a mere mortal. This is certain. And Peter continues next with, “forever and ever.” It is a Hebrew expression, derived from the words olam v’ed. Olam signifies to the distant horizon and thus “to the vanishing point.” By itself, it can signify eternity, but it can also mean “to the end of something,” such as when the Law of Moses would, at some point, come to its end. When it was given, that point was unknown. V’ed means “and again.” This is a stress which would extend the meaning of olam to “eternity” in the absolute sense. The Greek reads eis tous aiōnas tōn aiōnōn, or “to the ages of the ages.” It is comparable expression to the Hebrew, and therefore, a suitable English translation would be “Forever and ever.” Each signifies an unending time to this glory and dominion. Again, Peter’s words must be speaking of God, because only God is eternal, and only God possesses the attributes which he is speaking of. However, the exact same words were written out by Peter just one chapter earlier – “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” If God receives these things “through Jesus Christ,” and it is received “forever and ever,” then it means that Jesus Christ is the eternal means by how this comes about. It elevates Jesus to the position of deity within the Godhead. This is then further confirmed elsewhere in Scripture where one or more of the terms is again used when speaking only of Jesus. For example, Peter closes out his second epistle with the assured words that he is referring to Jesus – “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3:17. 18 With the understanding now that Peter is referring to both God and Jesus, who is God, he finishes with, “Amen.” So be it. His doxology is complete and finished, and his “Amen” proclaims that it is so. Life application: An Old Testament reference to the deity of Jesus is found in Daniel 7 – The fact is that Peter is also speaking of Jesus, who is God. Glory and dominion properly belong to God, but the same terms refer back to the book of Daniel when referring to the Son of Man – “I was watching in the night visions, And behold, One like the Son of Man, Coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, And they brought Him near before Him. 14 Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, That all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, Which shall not pass away, And His kingdom the one Which shall not be destroyed.” Daniel 7:13, 14 God guards His glory and refuses to allow it to be shared with another. Jesus is the One who reveals to us the glory of the invisible God. Jesus is God. To Him then belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen! What a marvelous story the Bible tells of Your love for us! Though You are infinitely beyond our comprehension, You came and clothed Yourself in the form of a Man so that we may know who You truly are in a way that we can understand. Thank You, O God, for our Lord Jesus! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Dec 31, 2019 2:29:21 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:12, 30 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2019· Monday, 30 December 2019 By Silvanus, our faithful brother as I consider him, I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand. 1 Peter 5:12 Peter now begins the closing section of the epistle. He begins with, “By Silvanus.” This is certainly the same person who traveled with Paul, known both as Silas and Silvanus. The shorter name is something commonly seen, just as a nickname today would be. Someone named Richard is shortened to Dick. Someone named James is shortened to Jim. In the Bible, Priscilla is shortened to Prisca. And the name Silvanus is shortened to Silas. He is seen with Paul in Acts quite a few times, such as in Acts 18 – “When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 18:5 Lining the timeline of that account up with his words in 2 Corinthians, it is evident that this is the same person as Silvanus – “And in this confidence I intended to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit— 16 to pass by way of you to Macedonia, to come again from Macedonia to you, and be helped by you on my way to Judea. 17 Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly? Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No? 18 But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes.” 2 Corinthians 1:15-19 With this established, it is apparent, once again, that because Silvanus is ministering the gospel with both Paul and Peter, that he is ministering the same gospel, not two different gospels – one for Jew and one for Gentile. This is evidenced by the rest of the words of the verse, beginning with “our faithful brother.” The Greek rather reads, “the faithful brother.” The words here tell us several things. Silvanus was well known by his name alone among the churches. It is evident that he had traveled through them extensively. This is evidenced by his frequent travels with Paul throughout all of the area. It also tells us that he was considered highly trustworthy, as is evidenced by Paul’s epistles. His character was well known and well-received by all. Peter then adds in, “as I consider him.” In other words, Peter gives his stamp of approval along with Paul’s. It is a note of complete conviction. Silvanus was a careful herald of the one gospel preached by both men, and he was trustworthy to proclaim that unified message to both Jew and Gentile. Peter then says, “I have written to you briefly.” The Greek reads, “through few.” In other words, he has used very few words to train and exhort those he is addressing. He could have gone on and on, but the length of the letter, and its precision of thought, was sufficient to convey his intent concerning what was on his mind. He next sums up the entire letter by saying, “exhorting and testifying.” Peter has both spurred them on in their knowledge and walk with Christ through exhortation, and he has testified to what he knows to be the truth when necessary. The word translated as “testifying” is only found here in the New Testament. It intensifies the word which signifies “to bear witness,” and thus it means something like “attesting further.” Peter has been full and complete in his words, despite the short nature of the letter. And this exhortation and testifying is “that this is the true grace of God.” Peter had previously waffled on the gospel. This is found clearly written out by Paul in Galatians 2:11-21. Paul rebuked Peter because he had allowed the Jews to intimidate him and draw back from the freedom found in Christ. Since that time, Peter had corrected his deficiencies to the point where he was useable by God to even write his own epistle on the surety of the gospel. With his now firm stand on the gospel of Jesus Christ, he is assuring the recipients of his letter that what he is telling them is not a word of waffling, but of conviction. It is the word “in which you stand.” It is the gospel which Paul preached, and which Peter was in complete agreement with, as Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 15 where Paul calls him Cephas. First Paul uses the same terminology by saying, “Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand.” (1 Corinthians 15:1). He then mentions Peter, or Cephas,” along with the other apostles in 1 Corinthians 15:5-7. And then he says of all of them in 1 Corinthians 15:11 – “Therefore, whether it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.” There is one, unified gospel preached by all of the apostles, and it is that one gospel in which all stand. Life application: Two questions for each of us arise from this verse – 1) If Peter were here today, would he consider you, as he considered Silvanus, a “faithful brother?” Are you trustworthy to handle and transmit the word of God faithfully? Think on this and evaluate how you treat the Bible and if you are willing to share it with others who are lacking in the grace of God. 2) Do you stand firmly on the Person of Jesus Christ? And if you feel you do, what gospel are you placing your faith in? There is one gospel presented in the Bible – God united with human flesh, lived the perfect life we can’t live, died on a cross to pay for our sins, and was resurrected to eternal life. His death is fully sufficient to reconcile us to God and He now sits at the right hand of God ever interceding for those who have called on Him as Lord. Stand firm in the gospel of Jesus Christ, be willing to share this gospel with others, and ensure that when you do share the gospel, you do it in a manner which squares with the biblical account. Heavenly Father, we trust in your grace, displayed in the gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord. Be with us as we head out into the world. Like Silvanus who carried this message with both Peter and Paul, send us as tried and true servants to share with others the same grace we have received and by which we stand. May You be pleased with us as we faithfully go forth. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 1, 2020 0:54:56 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:13, 31 December 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2019·6 MINUTES Tuesday, 31 December 2019 She who is in Babylon, elect together with you, greets you; and so does Mark my son. 1 Peter 5:13 After noting that Silvanus was the one who was with him in the writing of the epistle, Peter now says, “She who is in Babylon.” The word translated as “She” is simply a feminine article, and it is debated who or what is being referred to. It could be a prominent woman, Peter’s wife, or the church. As the address is made to the “pilgrims of the dispersion,” it seems likely that Peter is speaking of the church where he is at. Otherwise, if an individual, it would have to be someone known to every single addressee simply as “she.” It is unlikely that anyone would be in such a position of renown. If it was Peter’s wife, it would be far more likely that he would indicate it as such. Further, it then says, “who is in Babylon.” This brings in greater need for speculation. Is Peter referring to a literal Babylon, or is he using the term in an allegorical sense. Babylon as a church location is otherwise unknown in the New Testament, and as Rome was a city of great pagan worship and debauchery, and because Rome was the military power which ruled over Israel at the time – just as literal Babylon once ruled over Israel in the past – it is highly likely that Peter is using what had become a commonly used phrase concerning Rome. An argument against this comes from Professor Salmond, who is then cited by Vincent’s Word Studies. His commentary is a bit long, but worth citing because it is filled with fallacious arguments. A short rebuttal will be inserted and underlined against some of his thoughts – "In favor of this allegorical interpretation it is urged that there are other occurrences of Babylon in the New Testament as a mystical name for Rome (Revelation 14:8; Revelation 18:2, Revelation 18:10); that it is in the highest degree unlikely that Peter should have made the Assyrian Babylon his residence or missionary centre, especially in view of a statement by Josephus indicating that the Emperor Claudius had expelled the Jews from that city and neighborhood (Historical writings clearly indicate that literal Babylon had been cleared of Jews by the Romans. The obvious anger over such a thing would then make assigning the term “Babylon” to Rome all the more likely); and that tradition connects Peter with Rome, but not with Babylon (The same writers who hold steadfastly to the traditions of the apostles – such as their types and locations of death – suddenly refuse to hold to the same traditions over this issue? It is almost universally accepted that Peter was in Rome and was eventually martyred in Rome). The fact, however, that the word is mystically used in a mystical book like the Apocalypse - a book, too, which is steeped in the spirit and terminology of the Old Testament - is no argument for the mystical use of the word in writings of a different type (Of course it is, especially when the exact same type of terminology is spoken about concerning Jerusalem in Revelation 11:8. Further, an exacting description of this “Babylon” is given in Revelation 17:9, clearly identifying it as Rome – known as the city of seven hills into antiquity). The allegorical interpretation becomes still less likely when it is observed that other geographical designations in this epistle (1 Peter 1:1) have undoubtedly the literal meaning (This is ridiculous. Every epistle is addressed to real people in real locations. Then, within the epistle, allegorical and metaphorical terminology is used as it seems fit to the author, such as in 1 Corinthians 15:32). The tradition itself, too, is uncertain. The statement in Josephus does not bear all that it is made to bear (It is of the highest convenience to use an ancient writing when it fits one’s presuppositions, and then to disregard it when it doesn’t!). There is no reason to suppose that, at the time when this epistle was written, the city of Rome was currently known among Christians as Babylon (Illogical. If John is writing about Rome in the Revelation, then it is a 100% reason to so suppose). On the contrary, wherever it is mentioned in the New Testament, with the single exception of the Apocalypse (and even there it is distinguished as 'Babylon, the great'), it gets its usual name, Rome (Fallacy. This is an argument from silence, and has nothing to do with Peter’s intentional use of the word, if he is applying it to Rome. Further, the same could be said of the name “Babylon” as used in Scripture. It is a literal city referred to three times in Matthew and once in Acts 7, but in Acts it cites Amos 5:27, which originally referred to Damascus, not Babylon. Further, the very fact that it says “Great” as a qualifier of “Babylon” demonstrates that something other than the literal Babylon is being referred to there). So far, too, from the Assyrian Babylon being practically in a deserted state at this date, there is very good ground for believing that the Jewish population (not to speak of the heathen) of the city and vicinity was very considerable. For these and other reasons a succession of distinguished interpreters and historians, from Erasmus and Calvin, on to Neander, Weiss, Reuss, Huther, etc., have rightly held by the literal sense (Fallacy. This is an appeal to popularity and an appeal to fame. Just because a group of people, or someone of importance (or some level of fame), holds to a position, it does not make that position correct)." Unless one has a presupposition that this cannot be Rome which Peter is referring to, it is far more probable that it is – in fact – Rome. The use of “Babylon” in this case is logical, consistent with Revelation which is certainly speaking of Rome, and it is also consistent with the use of other such designations and allegorical statements in the New Testament writings. Peter, most probably writing from Rome as argued for here, next says, “elect together with you.” Those in “Babylon” are considered elect together with those he is addressing as noted in 1 Peter 1:1. The very fact that Rome is not mentioned in Peter’s initial greeting there further substantiates that he is writing from Rome. Otherwise, he would have certainly included them in his epistle. The omission of such a great body of believers, who are also elect (see Romans 1:7), is improbable at best. After this, the words “greets you” are given to expand on the words “She who is in Babylon.” It is a way of saying that one church of elect believers is greeting another church of elect believers through the epistle. From there, he ends with, “and so does Mark.” Here it is certainly referring to John Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark. He is the same person who traveled with Paul and Barnabas on missionary journeys. He eventually came to be with Peter during the time of the writing of this letter. In this, the affection Peter had for him is so great that he calls him – as Paul refers to Timothy several times – “my son.” It is a tender note of the love between the two which had grown throughout the years they had been together. Life application: In the ultimate sense, you too are being greeted in this letter because the letter made its way into the Bible. See, a personal letter from Peter to you from Babylon. Save the stamp, it could be a collector’s item! Thank You Lord for including each of us who have called on Christ Jesus in the unfolding pages of Your glorious plan for the redeemed of the ages! How precious it is to be one of the elect, holy and chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world! Here’s a great “Hallelujah” to You! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Jan 2, 2020 1:36:06 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, 1 Peter 5:14, 1 January 2020
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2020· Wednesday, 1 January 2020 Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen. 1 Peter 5:14 In the final verse of his first epistle, Peter begins with the thought, “Greet one another with a kiss of love.” This is the same general sentiment that Paul uses four times in his epistles by saying, “Greet one another with a holy kiss” (Romans 16:16). This was, and still is, the custom in many parts of the world. The kiss is intended as a greeting, just as western nations today shake hands or possibly hug, depending on familiarity. In the Far East, a deep and respectful bow is given in substitute of this. Although this is a prescriptive epistle, intent must always be considered. Is Peter mandating that all people in all churches “Greet one another with a kiss of love?” The answer must be considered carefully. The first kiss noted in the Bible in Genesis 27:26 when Isaac blessed his son Jacob before he departed to Padan Aram. From that point, the kiss is seen among the covenant people and among those who aren’t yet in the covenant, thus demonstrating the cultural nature of the greeting. It is used in the same way we use a handshake. When Jacob met Rachel, without knowing her in any familiar way yet, he kissed her. In 2 Samuel 20, the following exchange begins with a kiss of greeting and ends in death – “Then Joab said to Amasa, ‘Are you in health, my brother?’ And Joab took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him. But Amasa did not notice the sword that was in Joab’s hand. And he struck him with it in the stomach, and his entrails poured out on the ground; and he did not strike him again. Thus he died.” 2 Samuel 20:9, 10 In 1 Samuel 20:41, David and Jonathan, close male friends, gave a fraternal kiss in accord with the culture before departing. And, Proverbs 27:6 notes the following – “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Proverbs 27:6 This demonstrates clearly that the kiss is cultural because even enemies will kiss rather than shake hands. This is seen in these parts of the world today when leaders who are at war with each other still greet with a kiss. Exchanging “kiss” with shaking of hands in this Proverb would hold exactly the same meaning and intent. And as a premier example of this, read the following exchange between Jesus and Simon the Pharisee – “And He said to him, ‘You have rightly judged.’ Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, ‘Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head. You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil. Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.’” Luke 7:43-47 And of course, the most famous kiss in history is recorded concerning Judas’ betrayal of Jesus and reflects the sentiments of Proverbs 27:6 (above) perfectly. It is important then to understand the cultural nature of this admonition by Peter lest we get swept up into legalism over something which is actually not intended for all cultures and in all situations. If a person with an immune deficiency were to use this verse in a prescriptive manner, he could soon be dead from receiving the germs of others. Finally, the kisses, in these and other verses throughout the Bible, which are between men and men (such as David and Jonathan noted above) are not in any way intended to convey the perverse sin of homosexuality as modern liberals often imply. They are merely cultural and welcoming displays, just as handshakes are today. To imply this in their writings shows a disregard for God's order in the natural world. After this note of fraternal affection, Peter next says, “Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus.” To a Jew, the word “peace” is deeper than what we may think of it today, that of a state of quiet. It involves an entire state of contentment and calm. Thus, Peter’s words are a petition for wholeness and blessing, leading to what one might call a “fully satisfied soul.” He then finishes with, “Amen.” The word signifies “so be it.” And for all who read his letter of five chapters and 105 verses, taking it to heart, may it be so. Amen. Life application: Thank you for sharing in the journey we have made through this wonderful inspired letter. May we take heed the admonitions given, remember the instructions provided, and meditate on the wisdom imparted all the days of our lives. Peter was an eyewitness to Christ. He was there all during His ministry, saw firsthand the transfiguration, stumbled at the crucifixion, and was restored at the resurrection. He beheld the ascension and participated in the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Peter sat with the early elders in the church and continued his witness of the work of Jesus Christ throughout his life. This letter, along with the other 65 books of the Bible, testifies to the Person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the focus of Scripture and we are to keep our eyes and thoughts directed at Him alone. Next stop, 2 Peter. Amen! Oh Heavenly Father! Thank you for the wisdom and instruction imparted through the hands of your servants who have brought us the words of Scripture. Help us to remember what we have learned and to follow You all the more faithfully because of it. We look forward to reading Your word daily, and with anticipation and expectation of great wonders to come as we do. Amen.
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