1Pe 1:1(b) - to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Remembering our time frame, this is about the year 65. Jerusalem is in turmoil! Those who are able are fleeing to safer place. Christ believers are an endangered group. Nero has order all of the Christ sect to be killed because of the destructive fire in Rome. Lets define strangers and scattered.
Stran·ger –noun
1. a person with whom one has had no personal acquaintance: He is a perfect stranger to me.
2. a newcomer in a place or locality: a stranger in town.
3. an outsider: They want no strangers in on the club meetings.
4. a person who is unacquainted with or unaccustomed to something (usually fol. by to ): He is no stranger to poverty.
5. a person who is not a member of the family, group, community, or the like, as a visitor or guest: Our town shows hospitality to strangers.
6. Law . one not privy or party to an act, proceeding, etc.
1. distributed or occurring at widely spaced and usually irregular intervals: scattered villages; scattered showers.
2. dispersed; disorganized: scattered forces.
3. distracted or disorganized: scattered thoughts.
These were the first of many Jews dispersed after the crucification and would be strangers and aliens until the year 1947. Christ believers as well as other Jews.
All of the places mentioned in this verse except Bithynia were places where the Apostle Paul had established Churches. Some scholars accuse Peter of “proselytizing” those Churches. There is reason to believe that at the time of this letter, Paul had already been killed and Peter was trying to comfort the believers and encourage them to keep the faith.
1Pe 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
Last time we studied Peter’s work or office. His authority was none less than Jesus Christ. Lets define authority:
au·thor·i·ty –noun, plural -ties.
1. the power to determine, adjudicate, or otherwise settle issues or disputes; jurisdiction; the right to control, command, or determine.
2. a power or right delegated or given; authorization: Who has the authority to grant permission?
3. a person or body of persons in whom authority is vested, as a governmental agency.
4. Usually, authorities. persons having the legal power to make and enforce the law; government: They finally persuaded the authorities that they were not involved in espionage.
5. an accepted source of information, advice, etc.
6. a quotation or citation from such a source.
7. an expert on a subject: He is an authority on baseball.
8. persuasive force; conviction: She spoke with authority.
9. a statute, court rule, or judicial decision that establishes a rule or principle of law; a ruling.
10. right to respect or acceptance of one’s word, command, thought, etc.; commanding influence: the authority of a parent; the authority of a great writer.
11. mastery in execution or performance, as of a work of art or literature or a piece of music.
12. a warrant for action; justification.
13. testimony; witness.
One with authority must have documentation such as papers, warrants, letters, witnesses and/or other items. Jesus has the documentation:
As the Son of God:
His baptism: Mar 1:11 And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
His transfiguration:
Mar 9:7 And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.
To heal and cast out devils:
Mar 3:15 And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:
To delegate His power:
- Mar 6:13 And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.
- Mat 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
To save the lost:
Mat 18:11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
To Judge:
- Rom 14:11 For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
- 1Pe 4:5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
To Victory over death:
Rev 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
And this is just a small beginning of the Authority of Jesus Christ.
Next: The Strangers
1Pe 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
Last time we studied Peter the man. Today we consider his work or office: ”apostle“
We begin by defining the word “Apostle.” The dictionary defines it this manner:
a·pos·tle –noun
1. any of the early followers of Jesus who carried the Christian message into the world.
2. ( sometimes initial capital letter ) any of the original 12 disciples called by Jesus to preach the gospel: Simon Peter, the brothers James and John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alpheus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas Iscariot.
3. the first or the best-known Christian missionary in any region or country.
4. Eastern Church . one of the 70 disciples of Jesus.
5. the title of the highest ecclesiastical official in certain Protestant sects.
6. (among the Jews of the Christian epoch) a title borne by persons sent on foreign missions.
7. one of the 12 administrative officials of the mormon Church.
8. a pioneer of any reform movement.
9. Nautical . a knighthead, esp. one having its top projecting and used as a bitt or bollard.
For the purpose of our study,we will use the first, second and third definitions.
- Peter was a disciple of Jesus and specifically called to carry the message to the gentiles; Cornelius;
- He was an original member of the 12;
- He was the the first or the best-known Christian missionary to new countries;
Jesus chose the original twelve disciples. His disciples were students or followers. After learning at His feet and in their travels with Him, They were sent out to make disciples for Jesus, followers in ”all the nations’. (The word apostle literally means ‘one sent out’ )
The term apostle came to be exclusively used after the Ascension of Jesus. Peter in the Christian assembly gave the qualifications for an apostle as a preliminary to the choice of the replacement for Judas. (Acts 1:21-22)
The term apostle was also applied to Paul, who, although he did not meet the above qualifications, was personally set apart as an apostle to the Gentiles by Christ himself.
To use authority there must be someone or something with the power to give it.
Next time: Authority – Jesus Christ.
While studying a few days ago, I read a discussion about the “Pauline Letters” and ”Catholic Epistles.” I understood the “Pauline” reference but was curious about the term “Catholic Epistles.” My dictionary answered the question for me. - catholic means universal or to all.
Definition of catholic #2: Comprehensive, Universal; broad in sympathies, tastes, or interests <a catholic taste in music>
Definition of Pauline: Relating to the apostle Paul, his epistles, or the doctrine or theology implicit in his epistles.
Definition of Catholic Epistles: The five New Testament letters including James, I and II Peter, I John, and Jude addressed to the early Christian churches at large.
The first verse identifies the author as “Peter.”
Who was Peter?
Mark informs us his given name was Simon (SIMON BAR-JONA) and he was the brother of Andrew. They were a fisherman. They were aware of John the Baptist and his message. They knew that John had baptized Jesus and that God had anointed Him. We can’t be sure if was by witness or by hearing about it from others but they knew.
When Jesus called them as disciples the were casting nets into the sea. They were at work! Jesus is always looking for busy people. He was then, He still is today!
He was married as we are told “Jesus went to his mother-in-law’s house for a meeting and she was sick. When they told Him about it, He took her by the hand and healed her. She then served them. We need to tell Jesus about IT today.
Jesus gave Simon the name Peter which signifies a rock or stone. I see a “raw” stone freshly removed from a quarry. It has possibilities but its in rough shape. The ragged edges must be removed and the rough spots adjusted by the Master Carpenter before it is of any use.
Peter confesses that Jesus is the Messiah! That He is the Son of the Living God! He listened to the Holy Ghost!
Peter was impulsive! He was a “Get the job done type of guy!” Call me Lord and I will come to You!’ When he walked on the water he became overwhelmed by the circumstances! He called on Jesus and Jesus saved him!” Note: He called on Jesus! also note: None of the other disciples left the boat!
Peter said he would stand and die with the Lord. Mark 14:31 tells us “So said they all!” Then we hear of his denial of Jesus! The bible says nothing about where the other disciples were. Were they waiting for Peter to bring them news?
Peter is always listed first among the disciples and Judas Iscariot last. Peter was probably the oldest of the disciples. He was the leader! When asked what he was going to do in the hours after the crucification, Peter said “I’m going fishing!” They answered “We are going too!” Jesus was gone! Life was still to be lived! There was still work to do! The Bible tells us “and they caught nothing.” As they returned, a man on the shoreline told them to “cast the nets on the other side of the boat” and they caught so many fish the nets broke! Peter, again being first, cast his coat aside and swam to shore and came to Jesus!
Peter, the rock, the stone, now shaped and fitted for the work of God begins his ministry. He preaches as one who was a witness! One who saw first hand the works of Jesus! Thousands were saved! Many were healed
Next: Apostle
The Bible is ALIVE!
This morning using Mark 14 (NASB) as scripture for our morning devotional, I learned something new. I’ve read this scripture many times and listened to almost as many sermons mentioning it.
Mk 14:31 (NASB) But Peter kept saying insistently, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And they all were saying the same thing also.
This caught my attention “And they all were saying the same thing also.”
The emphasis is always on Peter but here we find all of the deciples were saying the same thing. Wait a minute! I never saw that before! So I grabed my trusted “King James Version” to see what it had to say.
Mk 14:31 (KJV) But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all. ”
And there it was! It was there all the time!
IN THIS CHAPTER LET US
- Consider the way Peter describes the people of God: “Pilgrims of the Dispersion”, “elect”, “obedient children.”
- Reflect upon the salvation, inheritance, and grace to come at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
- Note how we have been served by prophets, apostles, angels, the Holy Spirit, and Christ.
- Be reminded of the need to live holy lives, conducted with reverence toward God and with fervent and sincere love toward brethren.
SUMMARY
Peter begins this epistle to Christians in Asia Minor by acknowledging their election according to God’s foreknowledge, made possible by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, and for obedience and sprinkling by the blood of Jesus (1-2).
He praises God for their living hope, incorruptible inheritance, and glorious salvation to be revealed at the coming of Christ. Despite grievous trials, the power of God and their genuine faith protects them and gives them inexpressible joy. Their salvation to come was foretold by the prophets, and preached in the gospel by those inspired by the Holy Spirit (3-12).
Peter prescribes conduct becoming the people of God. They are to focus their mind and hope on the grace that will brought to them at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, they should conduct themselves in holiness and fear, imitating their holy Father who judges without partiality, ever mindful they have been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ through whom their faith and hope are in God. They are to love one another fervently with pure hearts, since they have purified their souls for that very purpose through their obedience to the truth, and have been born again by the incorruptible Word of God which lives and abides forever (13-25).
Almighty God, You are the Lord God my Father, Creator of heaven and earth and all that is in them. You are the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior. You are the Holy Ghost, my Comforter and present Help in time of need. Lord God You are worthy of all my love and honor and glory and praise!
You are Jehovah God my Provider, Banner, Peace, Healer, Sanctifier, Shepherd and bring Your Presence to us. You are He who took a hand full of nothing and created everything. Holy, Holy, Holy is your name.
Lord God Almighty, I thank You for the many blessings You give to me. You are so good to me and I thank You for my salvation, for the gift of the Holy Ghost and His companionship. Lord I thank You for everything!
Almighty God, I invite Your Presence into our home this day and thank You for that “Peace that surpasses all understanding” for that “Joy that is unspeakable and full of glory” you fill our hearts and home with. Lord, I ask that make Your presence be so real in our home that those who pass by on the roadway will sense You are here and call upon Your name. Dear Lord let it be all to Your glory and praise. I worship You! Oh my Lord God!
Father, I thank You for my family.
I thank You for my wife of almost 50 years who has been a constant support and helpmate in all the ordeals and trials we have faced. I ask You to bless her Physically, Spiritually and Materially. I ask that You grant her the desires of her heart. To bless her in the city and in the country. To bless her as she comes in and goes out.
Oh God give here favor with those she comes in contact with. Make a way for her where there seems to be no way. Prosper that she lays hands upon.
God bless and keep her this day; give her a great day; give her a good day and dear God give her a restful night, tonight.
Father, I ask you to bless my children, grandchildren and their families with Your Mercy and Grace. For those who do not serve You that you would dispatch the Holy Ghost to enter into their hearts and cause them to call upon Your name that they may find You and the salvation You provide for them.
God, that you would heal their spirits, soul and body. That you would heal them physically, spiritually and materially. God, bless those who serve you and give them a greater thirst and hunger for Your Presence. Dear Lord, grant them a closer walk with You.
Almighty God, I ask you to bless the Magnolia Springs AG church today.
I ask that You bless our Pastor Keith, who You sent to us, in all his works and doings. Give him favor will all those he comes in contact with. I ask You, Oh Lord, that You bless him with: Wisdom, Knowledge, Courage, Power, Strength and Purity of Heart. Lord, grant that he may walk in Your Presence and under Your Anointing!
Help Pastor Keith to fulfill the visions You give him. Lord touch our hearts so that the help he needs is there when needed. Oh God please supply his ever need.
Father, I ask you to bless Pastor Keith’s family. Build a hedge around them and turn back the fiery darts of the enemy. Make them a blessing to Pastor and him a blessing to them.
Father, I ask that you bless the church staff, both salaried and volunteered. Guide them in all they do. Prosper them as they lay their hands to the plow.
Oh God, reach out and touch the point of need to each family of the congregation. Salvation for lost family members, healing of sickness, comfort for those who morn, deliverance to those addicted. Let Your peace flow toward and on each family. I ask for your special intercession and healings for KT, SD, CC and other prayer requests.
Lord, I ask that You would touch the congregation with a greater hunger and thirst for Your righteousness. Let us weep before the alter and cry out with all our heart for the long prophesied Gulf Coast Revival. Not a meeting of a few days but real revival where souls are saved! The deaf hear! The blind to see! A revival where the church is multiplied daily! Dear God a revival that will continue until You return for those You have sealed!
Father, I ask you to dispatch “Leagues of Angels” to our sister church in Democratic Republic of Congo, East. Build a hedge about them to turn back the fiery darts of the enemy! Bless the pastors and their congregations. Make them a mighty nation determined to serve You!
I bring to Your remembrance all Missionaries, Ministers and their families where so ever dispersed. Give them a new zeal for their call. Put a new spring into their step. God, grant them a great harvest! Bless their families as they support them in the work.
I ask you to bless my neighbors. All of those who can be reached from Ramie Farm Road. God bless the lovable as well as the un-lovable. Meet their needs Oh God! Salvation to the lost, healing to the sick, deliverance to the addicted, comfort to those who are morning.
God bless the United States of America. Bless our president with wisdom, knowledge, courage and purity of heart and guide him to lead this us according to Your will. Bless all who hold positions in the government. Let them make bridges to decisions for the common good of all. Let envy, strife, greed and pride be cast aside and let us walk in Your blessing.
Again, Father, I thank you for your presence and that wonderful, blessed peace you bring. For that joy that fills my heart. Thank You Lord! Thank You Lord!
I ask this in the name of The Lord Jesus Christ
Amen
First Epistle of Peter
The first letter of Peter serves as a “Guide to living a Practical Christian Life.” Many proclaim John as the “disciple of love” Peter shows a greater expression of love. John commands us to live the Christian life; Peter tells us how to do it.
Peter encourages and strengthens us with the “Lively Hope” we have in Jesus Christ. He gives us a plan to handle the sufferings we face today while encouraging us with that lively hope we have in Him!
Peter announces in the first verse of the letter that he is the author. It is written by one who was “a witness of the sufferings of Christ.” Early church history also attributes this letter to Peter in the years 185 A.D., 200 A.D., and 300 A.D.
Peter was assisted by Silvanus, also known as Silas (1pe 5:12), a well known prophet and missionary in the early church. Silas had also joined with Paul in writing some of his epistles.
Peter’s initial audience were Christian “pilgrims” who were living in Pontus, Galatia,
Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, provinces in what is now Turkey. Paul had traveled extensively in some of these areas, so the gospel had been given much opportunity to spread throughout the region.
Some raise the question, why would Peter write a letter to those who were ministered to by Paul. They even hint that he was trying to take those congregations away from him.
Others say, and I agree with this group, that a great persecution had begun, that Paul had been martyred and Peter is simply trying to encourage and give comfort to those dispersed Christians.
It is generally accepted that Peter died during the reign of Nero. Since Nero committed suicide in 68 A.D., the epistle must be dated before then. As Peter wrote two letters some place the date of First Peter in 64-65 A.D. and Second Peter in 65-66 A.D. then his martyrdom soon after.
The Great Fire of Rome was an urban fire that occurred in AD 64. We are told it burned for five and a half days. It is uncertain who or what actually caused the fire — whether accident or arson.
According to Tacitus,(Publius (or Gaius) Cornelius Tacitus (AD 56 – AD 117) was a senator and a historian of the Roman Empire.) some in the population held Nero responsible. To diffuse blame, Nero targeted the Christians. There were Christians who confessed to the crime, but it became known that Christians were forced to confess by means of torture, and the passage is unclear as to what the Christians confessed to — being arsonists or Christians. As a consequence, to get rid of the report, Nero placed the guilt and inflicted the most exquisite tortures on a class hated for their abominations, called Christians.
An arrest was first made of all who pleaded guilty to being a Christian; then, upon their information, an immense multitude was convicted, not as much of the crime of firing the city as of hatred against mankind. Mockery of every sort was added to their deaths. Covered with the skins of beasts, they were torn by dogs and perished, or were nailed to crosses, or were doomed to the flames and burnt, to serve as a nightly illumination, when daylight had expired.
It’s apparent that Christians in Asia Minor had experienced persecution and more suffering was on the way. Throughout the epistle Peter encourages them to remain steadfast. He reminds them of their blessings and duties as God’s “elect”, “His own special people”.
Peter writes:
- To encourage steadfastness in the face of persecution
- To remind them of their special privilege as God’s “holy nation”
- To instruct them as to their proper conduct
The epistle is filled with practical admonitions concerning their conduct, especially as sojourners in a hostile land. They are told how to behave in the midst of those who speak evil of them, who abuse them, who do not believe their message, simply because they are Christians. An appropriate theme for this epistle might therefore be:
Guide to living a Practical Christian Life
“Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.” 1pe 2:11-12 (KJV)
