Tuesday, September 27, 2016

As we continue our inductive Bible study of 1st Peter 5 we find in verses 10-11 that “the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.” God is always doing something good no matter what we’re experiencing, even when we suffer. He uses suffering to prepare us for what lies ahead. It’s tough going through it, but in reality, it lasts only a short time, if we understand it from God’s perspective. His grace will not allow it to last too long. He knows what He is doing. He knows when and how to restore you so you will become strong, firm and steadfast. And one of the unique ways He does all of this is through our fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ. Peter talks about the help he got from Silas as he was writing this letter. He also refers to “She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you her greetings.” The “She” could refer to a particular woman or it could refer to the congregation of believers who lived in Babylon. It’s likely that Peter was in Rome when he wrote this letter, so “Babylon” could be used as a code word for Rome. He also includes Mark in his greeting from fellow Christians. He encourages them to “greet one another with a kiss of love.” We are family, experiencing life together, encouraging and helping one another. Peter closes his letter by pronouncing Peace over all who are in Christ.