Another theme in 1 Peter

The prospect of future glory  is a theme that recurs many times in 1 Peter – sometimes obvious and sometimes implied.

Chapter 1 verse 3  “ a living hope....to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”  This distracts the mind from present suffering to heavenly blessings.

1.7  “The glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”  How bright the blessed hope, Jesus will come again, not in the smallness of a babe, but he splendour of a King.

1.13  “Set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”  How important to focus on the long range view in contrast to the unstable present. In that day 'He will be admired in all those that believe'.(2 Thessalonians 1)

2.23 “to Him who judges justly”  - this implies that God will reward evildoers, now and in the great hereafter.

3.15 “the hope that is within you” The forward looking vision of the believer should be reflected in the way the believer lives.

4.5 “ Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead” Tomorrow is a brighter day when God rules.

4.11  “to Him belong the glory and dominion forever.” The prospect of God’s future find fulfilment in the glory and dominion of Jesus Christ.

4.13 “be glad when HIS glory is revealed.”  Just like the teaching of Paul the apostle, the present suffering will be rewarded with eternal glory when Christ is revealed.

5.1  Peter not only looks back to the claims of the sufferings of Christ, but is motivated forward also by the “glory that is going to be revealed.”

5.4 To the faithful shepherd is promised “ the unfading crown of glory”

5.6 “ the proper time that He may exalt you.”  For many, perhaps most believers, the day of exaltation will be the eternal day when the heavenly account keeper will open the books and then shall everyone have praise from God. (1Corinthians 4)

5.10 The Christian is “ called to His eternal glory in Christ.”  How frail, how temporary is the present when compared with God’s future plans. And to think that we undeserving mortals will have a part in that glorious future glorification of Jesus Christ. O what wonderful grace.

Peters second letter carries on the theme of the future hope – the coming Kingdom and the day of God – read it and let Peter challenge you  - are you living for the present or for the future???

John McKee

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