1 Peter 1:3-21

Followers of the resurrected Christ have a new life to live (Rom. 6:1-14), and great power to live that new life (Phil. 3).  We will not persevere in that life without hope, another provision through the resurrection of Christ (1 Pet. 1:3).

It is amazing that evangelical Christians today have such struggles in their lives.  For example, why is the divorce rate as high among evangelicals as it is in the rest of society?  We have more sermons, more programs, more seminars and weekends devoted to improving our marriages.  And yet we struggle.  

Perhaps we are missing Biblical hope.  I recently read a highly recommended book on Biblical counseling.  It was full of principles to make our lives and marriages better.  But I noticed, as I have noticed in nearly every such book, that there was no reference to eschatology, the study of last things.  I don’t mean the silly speculation that often passes for teaching on prophecy.  I mean the study of heaven, hell, the judgment seat of Christ, crowns of reward for the faithful, the rapture and return of Christ, the destruction of this world and a new heaven and earth.  You may wonder why a book on the Christian life should talk about such things.  The reason is because every one of the above subjects in Scripture is tied to the believer’s perseverance, steadfastness and faithfulness in this life.  

Take for example today’s passage.  In the opening verses (3-5) Peter makes a reference to being born again by the resurrection of Christ.  Death having been defeated, we have been born again to a living hope that is identified as an inheritance laid up for us in heaven, kept by God until our salvation is revealed in the last days.  These verses are filled with wonderful eschatology.

Note the effect of this truth.  It brings us joy in our afflictions (v6).  This is interesting given how much discouragement there is among Christians today. This hope provides rest as we gird ourselves up for our grueling pilgrimage (v12).  It is fundamental to being obedient children (v14) and holy (v16).  Hope is the key to endurance.  It is interesting that Peter is writing these words.  Perhaps he remembered that Jesus’ first words of encouragement to His disciples, after telling them He was leaving them, was that He would return after preparing a place for them.  He gave them eschatology.  

Sadly, even among professing believers today, there is an emphasis on the “hope of physical healing”, the “hope of increased earthly wealth” or the “hope of personal significance”.  These are the hopes of the world: the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and pride of life.  If you have sought to save your marriage or better your life by hoping in these things your hope is a spider’s web (Job 8:14).  

Instead, followers of Christ are those who through Him (Christ) believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory so that your faith and hope are in God (v21).  That is hope that will not disappoint (Rom. 5:5).  That is hope that will bring about perseverance.