As Peter continues to write to believers who have been scattered because of opposition and persecution, he now challenges them with an exhortation to love one another. Peter has already given 3 commands in verses 13-21, but a fourth and final command focuses on the necessity of loving one another. This is a reoccurring theme throughout the New Testament and as believers we are continually exhorted to love one another. This is the tangible demonstration of our love for God, our real love for one another. One of the amazing connections that Peter makes is the connection of our personal regeneration to loving one another. We have been regenerated through the Word. Because we have been regenerated through the Word, the Word can and will enable us to love one another. You can effectively love one another only as you are transformed by the Word. God alone, through his Word and the Spirit applying that Word to our lives, can transform us more into the image and likeness of our Savior. May he accomplish that in each us by his grace.
Peter writes to believers who have been scattered because of the opposition and persecution they are facing. These believers are now scattered across Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, Bithynia; which is modern day Turkey. Peter addresses throughout this epistle the appropriate response to suffering. Part of that response involves understanding our connection as believers to Jesus and the suffering that he endured on our behalf. We can follow the example of Jesus and endure suffering and the various hardships that may come into our lives. Peter writes to encourage these believers to endure because of the living hope that we have through Jesus. You can endure today, as you hope in Jesus.
Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community.
Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!
