THE POLLS SEEM TO BE CONCLUSIVE – anxiety is on the rise. A world of ever-increasing uncertainty has led to growing levels of disquiet. If we’re honest with ourselves, we’ve felt it too; no one is immune. We have all faced these feelings of nervousness, or even sometimes panic, as we look at the world around us. Some of that concern is directly tied to the fact that we live in an age and location in which the Christian faith is increasingly seen as strange or extreme. We wonder what freedoms we might lose in the days ahead or what trials our children could face because they follow Jesus.
When Peter opened his letter to the churches of Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), he was writing to a group of Christians who were clearly viewed as outsiders. He even calls them “exiles” or “sojourners” or “pilgrims.” Though they may have been born in the cities in which they found themselves and even had the rights of citizens, it was evident to all that they didn’t belong. And the foreignness of their faith was leading many to experience discrimination and other forms of persecution from their neighbors. In light of their suffering, Peter sought to encourage them by reminding them of several truths regarding their position in Christ as “elect” exiles.
First, he says our election for salvation was “according to the foreknowledge of the Father.” These believers in Asia Minor and all others had been chosen by God for a relationship with him through Jesus Christ. This choosing was not the Christian’s doing; this was God’s work alone, done by his grace. The Father had set his covenantal affection upon them. Though election should not elicit pride in believers’ hearts, it should bring a level of comfort that God is for them and with them.
Trusting in the Father’s presence and relational favor is especially needed in seasons of difficulty when our experience can lead us to question the Lord’s thoughts toward us.
Second, Peter states that their election was accomplished through “the sanctification of the Spirit.” The Spirit of God had been promised by the prophets before Christ (Ezekiel 37:14, Joel 2:28) and now those who trusted Christ were being filled with the Spirit and made holy by him. That’s what Peter meant by “sanctification” – the Holy Spirit graciously invaded our lives and converted us from sinful rebels into righteous children. And the Spirit continues his work of transformation throughout our lives, empowering us to live as God’s distinct, set-apart people.
Third, Peter writes that God’s choosing was for the purpose of “obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with his blood.” Obedience in this passage entails the “obedience of faith” at our conversion (Romans 1:5), but it also involves our ongoing surrender to Christ. For these Christians in Asia Minor and for many throughout the generations, their obedience would require suf-fering, just as it had for Christ himself. Interestingly, Paul in his letter to the church at Philippi would link God’s election for salvation with his gracious determination of suffering in the lives of believers (Philippians 1:29). What Peter and Paul were both seeking to do was provide their readers with confidence in God’s sovereign goodness in the midst of their crucibles.
Though none of us knows the future we will face as Christians in the West, we can take heart that through the cross of Jesus Christ we have been declared to be victors over all things because nothing on this earth (or in the heavens) could ever remove us from God’s loving presence (Romans 8:31-39). As 1 Peter 1:1-2 powerfully displays, the full measure of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) is at work in our lives. We have nothing to fear. May grace and peace be multiplied to you in abundance, my friend.
PRAYER
Father, what amazing truths for me to behold! You are so good to me. I know I don’t deserve your love, but I receive it. I find courage and comfort in the life-giving work of your Spirit. Christ’s blood applied to my life grants me the confidence I need to approach you openly and at all times. Your favor toward me is the greatest gift I could ever receive. May all these truths lead me to be fearless in the face of evil, for you prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Amen.
PONDER
- Some have viewed God’s “election” through a negative lens. How do you see it after studying this passage?
- Which truth from Peter’s opening words provides the most comfort to you?
- Can you think of anyone who is presently paralyzed by fear or anxiety? Pray for them through this passage and consider sharing it with them.