Day 348 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 14 December 2023 reflections - 19th Day of Advent
Day 348, 14 December 2023 - 19th Day of Advent
1) 1 Peter 1, 1 Peter 2, 1 Peter 3, 1 Peter 4, 1 Peter 5
1 Peter 1
Salutation
1 (Ac 16:6-7; Jas 1:1) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
To the refugees scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia,
and Bithynia,
2 (Ro 11:2; 2Th 2:13; Heb 12:24) elect according to the foreknowledge
of God the Father, through sanctification by the Spirit,
for obedience and sprinkling with the blood of Jesus Christ:
Grace to you and peace be multiplied.
[1] Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout
Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
[2] Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through
sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of
Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
A Living Hope
3 (1Co 15:20; 2Co 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who according to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 4:8) to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that does
not fade away, kept in heaven for you,
5 (Eph 2:8) who are protected by the power of God through faith for
a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
6 (Jas 1:2; Isa 61:3; Ro 5:2) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now,
if for a little while, you have had to suffer various trials,
7 (Job 23:10; Pr 17:3; Isa 48:10) in order that the genuineness of your faith,
which is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tried by fire,
may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus
Christ,
8 (Jn 20:29; Heb 11:27) whom, having not seen, you love; and in whom, though
you do not see Him now, you believe and you rejoice with joy unspeakable and
full of glory,
9 (Ro 6:22) receiving as the result of your faith the salvation of your souls.
10 (Mt 13:17; Lk 10:24) Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied
of the grace that should come to you have inquired and searched diligently,
11 (2Pe 1:21; Isa 52:13-14) seeking the events and time the Spirit of Christ,
who was within them, signified when He foretold the sufferings of Christ
and the glories to follow.
12 (Jn 15:26; Da 8:13) It was revealed to them that they were not serving
themselves but you, concerning the things which are now reported to you by
those who have preached the gospel to you through the Holy Spirit, who was
sent from heaven-things into which the angels desire to look.
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according
to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
[4] To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not
away, reserved in heaven for you,
[5] Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to
be revealed in the last time.
[6] Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are
in heaviness through manifold temptations:
[7] That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that
perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and
honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
[8] Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet
believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
[9] Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
[10] Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently,
who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
[11] Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was
in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ,
and the glory that should follow.
[12] Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they
did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have
preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven;
which things the angels desire to look into.
A Call to Holy Living
13 (1Pe 4:7; 5:8) Therefore guard your minds, be sober, and hope to the end
for the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
14 (Ro 12:2; Ac 17:30) As obedient children do not conduct yourselves
according to the former lusts in your ignorance.
15 (2Co 7:1; Heb 12:14) But as He who has called you is holy, so be holy
in all your conduct,
16 (Lev 11:44; 19:2) because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy."
(Lev 11:44; 19:2; 20:7.)
17 (Mt 6:9; 2Co 7:1) And if you address as Father the One who impartially
judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves in fear during the
time of your sojourning.
18 (1Co 6:20) For you know that you were not redeemed from your vain way
of life inherited from your fathers with perishable things, like silver
or gold,
19 (Jn 1:29; Ex 12:5) but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb
without blemish and without spot.
20 (Eph 1:4; Col 1:26) He was foreordained before the creation of the world,
but was revealed in these last times for you.
21 (Heb 2:9; Jn 12:44) Through Him you believe in God who raised Him up
from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope might be
in God.
22 (Heb 13:1; Jas 4:8) Since your souls have been purified by obedience to
the truth through the Spirit unto a genuine brotherly love, love one another
deeply with a pure heart,
23 (Heb 4:12; 1Pe 1:3) for you have been born again, not from perishable seed,
but imperishable, through the word of God which lives and abides forever.
24 (Isa 40:6-8; Jas 1:10-11) For
"All flesh is as grass,
and all the glory of man as the flower of grass.
The grass withers, and its flower falls away,
25 (Isa 40:8) but the word of the Lord endures forever."
This is the word that was preached to you.
[13] Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end
for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus
Christ;
[14] As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former
lusts in your ignorance:
[15] But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of
conversation;
[16] Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
[17] And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth
according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in
fear:
[18] Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things,
as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from
your fathers;
[19] But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and
without spot:
[20] Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was
manifest in these last times for you,
[21] Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and
gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
[22] Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the
Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another
with a pure heart fervently:
[23] Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the
word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
[24] For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of
grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
[25] But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which
by the gospel is preached unto you.
1 Peter 2
The Living Stone and the Holy Nation
1 (Eph 4:31; Jas 4:11; 1:21) Therefore put away all wickedness, deceit,
hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking.
2 (Mt 18:3; Eph 4:15)As newborn babies, desire the pure milk of the word,
that by it you may grow,
3 if it is true that you have experienced that the Lord is good.
[1] Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and
envies, and all evil speakings,
[2] As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow
thereby:
[3] If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4 (1Pe 2:7) Coming to Him as to a living stone who is rejected by men,
but chosen by God and precious,
5 (Php 4:18; 1Pe 2:9; Isa 61:6) you also, as living stones, are being built
up into a spiritual house as a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual
sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 (Isa 28:16; Eph 2:20) For also it is contained in the Scripture,
"Look! I lay in Zion
a chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
and he who believes in Him
shall never be put to shame." (Isa 28:16.)
7 (Mt 21:42; 2Co 2:16) Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious.
But to those who are disobedient,
"The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,"(Ps 118:22.)
8 (Isa 8:14; Ro 9:22) and,
"A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense."(Isa 8:14.)
They stumble because they are disobedient to the word,
to which also they were appointed.
9 (Dt 7:6; 10:15) But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy
nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may declare the
goodness of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
10 (Hos 1:9-10; 2:23) In times past, you were not a people, but now you are
the people of God. You had not received mercy, but now you have received
mercy.
[4] To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but
chosen of God, and precious,
[5] Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy
priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus
Christ.
[6] Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a
chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not
be confounded.
[7] Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be
disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the
head of the corner,
[8] And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which
stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
[9] But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
[10] Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God:
which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Live as Servants of God
11 (Jas 4:1; Lev 25:23) Dearly beloved, I implore you as aliens and refugees,
abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul.
12 (Mt 5:16; 1Pe 3:16) Live your lives honorably among the Gentiles, so that
though they speak against you as evildoers, they shall see your good works
and thereby glorify God in the day of visitation.
13 (Titus 3:1) Submit yourselves to every human authority for the Lord's sake,
whether it be to the king, as supreme,
14 (Ro 13:3-4) or to governors, as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers
and to praise those who do right.
15 (1Pe 2:12) For it is the will of God that by doing right you may put to
silence the ignorance of foolish men.
16 (Ro 6:22; 1Co 7:22) As free people, do not use your liberty as a covering
for evil, but live as servants of God.
17 (Ro 13:7; Pr 24:21; Ro 12:10) Honor all people. Love the brotherhood.
Fear God. Honor the king.
[11] Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from
fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
[12] Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they
speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they
shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
[13] Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake:
whether it be to the king, as supreme;
[14] Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment
of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
[15] For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence
the ignorance of foolish men:
[16] As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but
as the servants of God.
[17] Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
The Example of Christ's Suffering
18 (Jas 3:17) Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only
to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.
19 (Ro 13:5) For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God
a person endures grief, suffering unjustly.
20 (1Pe 2:19; 3:17) For what credit is it if when you are being beaten
for your sins you patiently endure? But if when doing good and suffering
for it, you patiently endure, this is favorable before God.
21 (Ac 14:22; Mt 16:24) For to this you were called, because Christ suffered
for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 (Isa 53:9; 2Co 5:21) "He committed no sin,
nor was deceit found in His mouth."(Isa 53:9.)
23 (Isa 53:7; Lk 23:46) When He was reviled, He did not revile back; when He
suffered, He did not threaten, but He entrusted Himself to Him who judges
righteously.
24 (Ro 6:2; 6:11) He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree,
that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness.
"By His wounds you were healed."(Isa 53:5).
25 (Isa 53:6; Ps 119:176)
For you were as sheep going astray, but now have been returned
to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.
[18] Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the
good and gentle, but also to the froward.
[19] For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure
grief, suffering wrongfully.
[20] For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall
take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it
patiently, this is acceptable with God.
[21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,
leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
[22] Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
[23] Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he
threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
[24] Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we,
being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were
healed.
[25] For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the
Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
1 Peter 3
Wives and Husbands
1 (1Co 7:16; Col 3:18) Likewise you wives, be submissive to your own husbands,
so that if any do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the
conduct of their wives,
2 as they see the purity and reverence of your lives.
3 (Isa 3:18-24) Do not let your adorning be the outward adorning
of braiding the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine clothing.
4 (Ro 7:22; Ps 149:4) But let it be the hidden nature of the heart, that which
is not corruptible, even the ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is
very precious in the sight of God.
5 (1Ti 5:5) For in this manner, in the old times, the holy women, who trusted
in God, adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands,
6 (Ge 18:12) even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. You are her
children as long as you do right and are not afraid with any terror.
7 (Col 3:19; 1Th 4:4) Likewise, you husbands, live considerately with
your wives, giving honor to the woman as the weaker vessel,
since they too are also heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers
will not be hindered.
[1] Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any
obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation
of the wives;
[2] While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
[3] Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair,
and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
[4] But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not
corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the
sight of God of great price.
[5] For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted
in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
[6] Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are,
as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
[7] Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving
honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together
of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
Suffering for Righteousness' Sake
8 (Mt 18:33; Ro 12:10) Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward
one another, be gracious, and be kind.
9 (Ro 12:17; 12:14; 1Th 5:15) Do not repay evil for evil, or curse for curse,
but on the contrary, bless, knowing that to this you are called, so that you
may receive a blessing.
10 (Ps 34:12-16) For
"He who would love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil,
and his lips from speaking deceit.
11 (Ps 34:14; Mt 5:9) Let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and His ears are open to their prayers;
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
13 (Pr 16:7) Who is he who will harm you if you follow that which is good?
14 (1Pe 2:19-20; Isa 8:12-13) But even if you suffer for the sake
of righteousness, you are blessed. "Do not be afraid of their terror,
do not be troubled."(Isa 8:12.)
15 (Col 4:6; Isa 29:23) But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts.
Always be ready to give an answer to every man who asks you for
a reason for the hope that is in you, with
gentleness and fear.
16 (Heb 13:18; 1Pe 2:12) Have a good conscience so that evildoers who speak
evil of you and falsely accuse your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
17 (1Pe 2:20; 4:19) For it is better, if it is the will of God, that you
suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
18 (1Pe 4:1; Heb 9:26; Ro 4:25) For Christ also has once suffered for sins,
the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, being put to death
in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit,
19 (1Pe 4:6) by whom He also went and preached to the spirits in prison,
20 (Ge 6:3; 6:5) who in times past were disobedient, when God waited patiently
in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is,
eight souls, were saved through water.
21 (1Pe 1:3; Mk 16:16) Figuratively this is like baptism, which also saves us
now. It is not washing off the dirt from the body, but a response to God from
a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
22 (Ro 8:38; Mk 16:19) who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand
of God, with angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.
[8] Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love
as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
[9] Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise
blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a
blessing.
[10] For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his
tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
[11] Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
[12] For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open
unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
[13] And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is
good?
[14] But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not
afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
[15] But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give
an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you
with meekness and fear:
[16] Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of
evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in
Christ.
[17] For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well
doing, than for evil doing.
[18] For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust,
that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but
quickened by the Spirit:
[19] By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
[20] Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God
waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that
is, eight souls were saved by water.
[21] The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the
putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience
toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
[22] Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and
authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
1 Peter 4
Good Stewards of God's Grace
1 (Ro 6:7; 6:2) Therefore, since Christ has suffered for us in the flesh,
arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, for he who has suffered in
the flesh has ceased from sin,
2 (Mk 3:35; Ro 6:11) so that he no longer should live the rest of his time
in the flesh serving human desires, but the will of God.
3 (Isa 28:7; Eze 44:6) For in earlier times of our lives it may have
sufficed us to do what the Gentiles like to do, when we walked in immorality:
lusts, drunkenness, carousing, debauchery, and abominable idolatries.
4 (1Pe 3:16; 2:12) They are surprised that you do not join them in the same
excess of wild living, and so they speak evil of you.
5 (Ac 10:42; 2Ti 4:1) They will give account to Him who is ready to judge
the living and the dead.
6 (1Pe 3:19) For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who
are dead, so that even though they might be judged according to men
in the flesh, they might live according to God in the spirit.
7 (1Pe 1:13; Lk 21:36) The end of all things is near.
Therefore be solemn and sober so you can pray.
8 (Pr 10:12; Jas 5:20) Above all things, have unfailing love for one another,
because love covers a multitude of sins.
9 (Php 2:14; 1Ti 3:2) Show hospitality to one another without complaining.
10 (1Co 4:1-2; Lk 12:42) As everyone has received a gift, even so serve one
another with it, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 (Ac 7:38; 1Co 10:31) If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.
If anyone serves, let him serve with the strength that God supplies, so that
God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ,
to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
[1] Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm
yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the
flesh hath ceased from sin;
[2] That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the
lusts of men, but to the will of God.
[3] For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of
the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine,
revellings, banqueting, and abominable idolatries:
[4] Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same
excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
[5] Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the
dead.
[6] For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead,
that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according
to God in the spirit.
[7] But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch
unto prayer.
[8] And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity
shall cover the multitude of sins.
[9] Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
[10] As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to
another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
[11] If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man
minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all
things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion
for ever and ever. Amen.
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place
among you to test you, as though some strange thing happened to you.
13 (Ro 8:17; Php 3:10) But rejoice insofar as you share in Christ's sufferings,
so that you may rejoice and be glad also in the revelation
of His glory.
14 (Mt 5:11; 1Pe 3:16) If you are reproached because of the name of Christ,
you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.
15 (1Th 4:11; 2Th 3:11) Let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief,
or an evildoer, or even as a busybody.
16 (Ac 5:41; 26:28) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be
ashamed, but let him glorify God because of it.
17 (Jer 25:29; 2Th 1:8) For the time has come for judgment to begin
at the house of God, and if it begins first with us, what shall the end
be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 (Pr 11:31; Lk 23:31) And
"If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?"(Pr 11:31.)
19 (Ps 31:5; Lk 23:46) So then, let those who suffer according to the will
of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator, while continuing
to do good.
[12] Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to
try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
[13] But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that,
when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
[14] If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the
spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken
of, but on your part he is glorified.
[15] But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an
evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
[16] Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let
him glorify God on this behalf.
[17] For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and
if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the
gospel of God?
[18] And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the
sinner appear?
[19] Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the
keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
1 Peter 5
Tending the Flock of God
1 (Lk 24:48; Ac 11:30) I exhort the elders who are among you,
as one who is also an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ
as well as a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
2 (1Ti 3:8; 3:3) Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, take care
of them, not by constraint, but willingly, not for dishonest gain,
but eagerly.
3 (Eze 34:4; Php 3:17) Do not lord over those in your charge,
but be examples to the flock.
4 (1Co 9:25; Jas 1:12; 1Pe 1:4) And when the chief Shepherd appears,
you will receive a crown of glory that will not fade away.
5 (Jas 4:6; Eph 5:21) Likewise you younger ones, submit yourselves
to the elders. Yes, all of you be submissive one to another
and clothe yourselves with humility, because
"God resists the proud,
but gives grace to the humble."(Pr 3:34.)
6 (Jas 4:10; Mt 23:12) Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that He may exalt you in due time.
7 (Ps 55:22; 37:5) Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.
8 (Job 2:2; Eph 6:11) Be sober and watchful, because your adversary
the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 (Ac 14:22; Jas 4:7) Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that
the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
10 (2Co 4:17; 2Th 2:17; 1Co 1:9) But after you have suffered a little while,
the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory through Christ
Jesus, will restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.
11 (1Pe 4:11) To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
[1] The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a
witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that
shall be revealed:
[2] Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof,
not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
[3] Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the
flock.
[4] And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of
glory that fadeth not away.
[5] Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you
be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth
the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
[6] Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may
exalt you in due time:
[7] Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
[8] Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring
lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
[9] Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are
accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
[10] But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by
Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect,
stablish, strengthen, settle you.
[11] To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
12 (Heb 13:22; 2Co 1:19; Ac 20:24) With the help of Silas, whom I consider
to be a faithful brother to you, I have written briefly, exhorting you
and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.
13 (Ac 12:12; 12:25) The church that is at Babylon, elect together with you,
greets you, and so does Mark, my son.
14 (Ro 16:16; Eph 6:23) Greet one another with a kiss of love.
Peace be with all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
[12] By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written
briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God
wherein ye stand.
[13] The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you;
and so doth Marcus my son.
[14] Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that
are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 December 2023 Titled
Appetite for Distraction
Psalms 131
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Lord, my heart is not haughty, my eyes are not raised too high.
I have not striven for enormities, for things too wonderful for me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I composed and quieted my desire,
like a child given suck by his mother;
like a child who sucks is my desire within me.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Let Israel hope in the Lord from now and forever.
Psalm 131
[1] LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I
exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
[2] Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of
his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
[3] Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever
I set my phone down, weary of the constant bombardment of images, ideas, and
notifications that the little screen broadcasted. Then, I picked it up and
turned it on again. Why?
In his book The Shallows, Nicholas Carr describes how the internet has shaped
our relationship with stillness: "What the Net seems to be doing is chipping
away my capacity for concentration and contemplation. Whether I'm online or
not, my mind now expects to take in information the way the Net distributes
it: in a swiftly moving stream of particles. Once I was a scuba diver in the
sea of words. Now I zip along the surface like a guy on a Jet Ski."
Living life on a mental jet ski doesn't sound healthy. But how do we begin to
slow down, to dive deeply into still spiritual waters?
In Psalm 131, David writes, "I have behaved and quieted myself" (v. 2).
David's words remind me that I have responsibility. Changing habits starts
with my choice to be still-even if I must make that choice over and over
again. Slowly, though, we experience God's satisfying goodness. Like a little
child, we rest in contentment, remembering that He alone offers hope (v. 3)
-soul-satisfaction that no smartphone app can touch and no social media site
can deliver.
By: Adam Holz
Reflect & Pray
How does technology influence your ability to rest quietly before God?
Does your phone contribute to your contentment? Why or why not?
Father, the world is awash in distraction that
doesn't satisfy my soul. Please help me trust You to fill me with
genuine contentment.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 5 Called by Name
Isaiah 43:1
1 But now, thus says the Lord who created you, O Jacob,
and He who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name; you are Mine.
1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob,
and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:
for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
Eric, age 4, somehow lost his mother in a large and busy department store.
Found sobbing under a coat rack, the boy tried to tell the security guard
where he was when he got separated from his mother. Finally the guard said,
"what's your name, Son? Who do you belong to?"
The child brightened a bit, gave the guard his name, and within minutes
the frantic mother was reunited with her lost son.
One of the first questions we are asked, both as children and adults, is
"What is your name?" - that is, "Who are you? Who do you belong to?"
Children bear the name of their parents, and most women,
except for professional reasons,
take the name of their husbands when they marry.
Our names are our primary method of identification;
they connect us with our heritage and those we love.
In Isaiah 43:1, God declares that we belong to him.
The Lord who created us and formed us says,
"I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine." God's
right of ownership in our lives extends beyond the bond of family and friends,
of parent, child, or spouse. We belong first to him;
we are called by him into oneness with him.
The Scripture is filled with images of the Lord's care for us;
when we are lost, he does
not wait for us to find him,
but takes the initiative, like a loving parent
to seek us out. That declaration of belonging can give us
a strong sense of security in our lives. God loves us;
he will never let us go.
Application
a) What experiences have I had of being lost of abandoned?
b) How can today's verse help me find security in belonging to God?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Gen 26:12-14
12 (Ge 26:3; 24:1) Then Isaac sowed in that land
and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; the Lord blessed him.
13 The man became rich and continued to prosper until he became very wealthy.
14 (Ge 37:11; Ecc 4:4) For he had possessions of flocks and herds
and a great number of servants so that the Philistines envied him.
12 Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year
an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.
13 And the man waxed great, and went forward,
and grew until he became very great:
14 for he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds,
and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Unfailing Love
Ps 36:5-9
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens,
and Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Your righteousness is like the great mountains,
Your judgments like the great deep; O Lord, You preserve man and beast.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) How excellent is Your lovingkindness, O God!
Therefore mankind seeks refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) They will drink their fill
from the abundance of Your house,
and You will cause them to drink from the river of Your pleasures.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) For with You is the fountain of life;
in Your light we see light.
5 Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens;
And thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.
6 Thy righteousness is like the great mountains;
Thy judgments are a great deep:
O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.
7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God!
Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house;
And thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
9 For with thee is the fountain of life: In thy light shall we see light.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Advent Day 19
From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God.
We do not know... how things would have worked if the
human race had never rebelled against God and joined the enemy....
You and I are concerned with the way things work now."
- C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 178.)
Why Did He Do It?
Have you ever noticed that children have so many of the same mannerisms as their parents?
They walk, gesture, and even laugh like their parents. Children also mimic the bad traits
of their parents, but it is a great compliment to parents that their sons and daughters are like them.
Why did the Son of God become one of us? Certainly not for his own benefit. John says it this way,
"But to as many as received him, to them he gave power to become the sons of God."
Lewis says it similarly, "The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God."
God didn't become a man to impress anyone, least of all us. God was in the business of raising up
us men and women to become like him, people who walk in his ways, who act like he acted
and do what he did. Jesus became like us so that we might become like him.
Parents want their children to grow up to be like them. Setting aside our faults for the moment,
it is better for them to become like us than to stay children. That is also our Father's intent for us.
At times, it is painful when God molds and shapes us to be conformed to the image of his Son.
But we become more ourselves when we become like him.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons
and daughters. Amen.
Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,
to those who believed in His name, John 1:12,
and have embraced the new nature,
which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him who created it,
Col. 3:10
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
THURSDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
His name is John.
He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."
-Luke 1:63a
All the friends and relatives wanted to name the child Zechariah
after his father. However, Elizabeth and Zechariah were adamant
that he was to be called John. The people were amazed-this was not
a family name, they cried. But it was the name the angel Gabriel
had given to Zechariah in the Temple, so it was God's
ordinance that he should be so designated.
If the people were astounded by the couple's unusual unanimity
about this unique name, they were even more surprised on this
circumcision day by the opening of Zechariah's mouth.
He spoke clearly-his tongue was free! and, most important,
he acclaimed God!
Zechariah had had more than nine months to contemplate things.
He was overwhelmed with Joy that he and Elizabeth had borne
a child in their old age, and he was awed that even before
birth John had been filled with the Holy Spirit. Thus, Zechariah
burst out with praise at God's working.
Prayer
Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.
Amen.
Read Luke 1:59-64.
59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.
And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.
60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”
61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives
who is called by this name."
62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.
63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."
And they all were amazed.
64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,
and he spoke and praised God.
From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD THURSDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ABSOLUTES!
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according
to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living hope
through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that
does not fade away, kept in heaven for you, 1 PETER 1:3-4
Joy to the World is a hymn that should be sung all year long!
We boldly proclaim that there is joy in this world because the Lord HAS
come! Have you ever sung a stanza that goes. "Joy to the world, the Lord
might come," or "the Lord is thinking of coming." or "shape up and he will
come"? Me neither!
Absolutes is a big AH-HA of Advent. It affirms that Advent is not a time
to pretend that the Lord is coming, but that he has indeed come to
us already! And with this absolute truth of the Gospel we also receive
absolution of our sins--again because (he Lord has come to live, suffer,
die and rise for us! We are forgiven . . . absolutely!
Think of other absolutes in your life. l think of love for family although
mess that up at times; and of life being a gift from God,. although
sometimes do not live like it is; and, of course, it is an absolute that
the Chicago Cubs will never win another World Series
but that's another story!
1 Peter 1 affirms in us that the absolute of Advent is that the Lord has given us
"a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ"!
So enjoy the day, absolutely, in the Lord. Sit back. relax. enjoy--there is
nothing left for us to do. Soren Kierkegaard once said, "Laughter is a type
of prayer." Perhaps he meant that laughter, like prayer, allows us to give up
our need to control or manage. Just receive the Christ of Christmas!
Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long
time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come
to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read 1 Peter 1:3-9
3 (1Co 15:20; 2Co 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who according to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 4:8) to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that
does not fade away, kept in heaven for you,
5 (Eph 2:8) who are protected by the power of God through faith for
a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
6 (Jas 1:2; Isa 61:3; Ro 5:2) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now,
if for a little while, you have had to suffer various trials,
7 (Job 23:10; Pr 17:3; Isa 48:10) in order that the genuineness of your faith,
which is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tried by fire,
may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation
of Jesus Christ,
8 (Jn 20:29; Heb 11:27) whom, having not seen, you love; and in whom,
though you do not see Him now, you believe and you rejoice with joy
unspeakable and full of glory,
9 (Ro 6:22) receiving as the result of your faith the salvation of your souls.
From On Eagle's wings Day 18
Titled Celebration through Empowerment by Rev. Victor Johnson (Anglican)
Diocese of the Arctic Aklavik, Northwest Territories
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
To keep up the Christian faith is so crucial in the challenging
times that we live in. Life in the Canadian North is exciting,
but requires depending on the grace, leading, and anointing of
the Holy Spirit.
After the pandemic, many are anxious to understand the
purpose of Christian existence. As we celebrate Christmas, it
is good to remind ourselves that we are to experience and
celebrate the light that is given to us by the birth of Jesus
Christ.
Amid darkness, we are to enjoy the hope, joy and peace
granted to us, by learning to put our trust always in our Lord
and Saviour Jesus alone.
Fulfillment in Jesus is only possible by receiving the
empowerment of the Holy Spirit, who provides focus, purpose
and meaning to our life.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to live in the Holy Ways of the Lord.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, the world is awash in distraction that
doesn't satisfy my soul. Please help me trust You to fill me with
genuine contentment."
Pray to the Lord and pray to know that securely he has called you be name.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for His Blessings.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know him as a refuge!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons
and daughters. Amen.
Pray: Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.
Pray: Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long
time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come
to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Loving and compassionate God, we thank you for the
assurance of your anointing to live a life full of light. May
we be filled with joy and peace to be your witnesses in the
midst of Christmas celebrations this year. Amen.
Pray for pastors in Sri Lanka who are planting house churches in unreached
villages.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) 1 Peter 1, 1 Peter 2, 1 Peter 3, 1 Peter 4, 1 Peter 5
1 Peter 1
Salutation
1 (Ac 16:6-7; Jas 1:1) Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ,
To the refugees scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia,
and Bithynia,
2 (Ro 11:2; 2Th 2:13; Heb 12:24) elect according to the foreknowledge
of God the Father, through sanctification by the Spirit,
for obedience and sprinkling with the blood of Jesus Christ:
Grace to you and peace be multiplied.
[1] Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout
Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
[2] Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through
sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of
Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
A Living Hope
3 (1Co 15:20; 2Co 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who according to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 4:8) to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that does
not fade away, kept in heaven for you,
5 (Eph 2:8) who are protected by the power of God through faith for
a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
6 (Jas 1:2; Isa 61:3; Ro 5:2) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now,
if for a little while, you have had to suffer various trials,
7 (Job 23:10; Pr 17:3; Isa 48:10) in order that the genuineness of your faith,
which is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tried by fire,
may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus
Christ,
8 (Jn 20:29; Heb 11:27) whom, having not seen, you love; and in whom, though
you do not see Him now, you believe and you rejoice with joy unspeakable and
full of glory,
9 (Ro 6:22) receiving as the result of your faith the salvation of your souls.
10 (Mt 13:17; Lk 10:24) Concerning this salvation, the prophets who prophesied
of the grace that should come to you have inquired and searched diligently,
11 (2Pe 1:21; Isa 52:13-14) seeking the events and time the Spirit of Christ,
who was within them, signified when He foretold the sufferings of Christ
and the glories to follow.
12 (Jn 15:26; Da 8:13) It was revealed to them that they were not serving
themselves but you, concerning the things which are now reported to you by
those who have preached the gospel to you through the Holy Spirit, who was
sent from heaven-things into which the angels desire to look.
[3] Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according
to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
[4] To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not
away, reserved in heaven for you,
[5] Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to
be revealed in the last time.
[6] Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are
in heaviness through manifold temptations:
[7] That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that
perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and
honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
[8] Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet
believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
[9] Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
[10] Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently,
who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
[11] Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was
in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ,
and the glory that should follow.
[12] Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they
did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have
preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven;
which things the angels desire to look into.
A Call to Holy Living
13 (1Pe 4:7; 5:8) Therefore guard your minds, be sober, and hope to the end
for the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
14 (Ro 12:2; Ac 17:30) As obedient children do not conduct yourselves
according to the former lusts in your ignorance.
15 (2Co 7:1; Heb 12:14) But as He who has called you is holy, so be holy
in all your conduct,
16 (Lev 11:44; 19:2) because it is written, "Be holy, for I am holy."
(Lev 11:44; 19:2; 20:7.)
17 (Mt 6:9; 2Co 7:1) And if you address as Father the One who impartially
judges according to each one's work, conduct yourselves in fear during the
time of your sojourning.
18 (1Co 6:20) For you know that you were not redeemed from your vain way
of life inherited from your fathers with perishable things, like silver
or gold,
19 (Jn 1:29; Ex 12:5) but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb
without blemish and without spot.
20 (Eph 1:4; Col 1:26) He was foreordained before the creation of the world,
but was revealed in these last times for you.
21 (Heb 2:9; Jn 12:44) Through Him you believe in God who raised Him up
from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope might be
in God.
22 (Heb 13:1; Jas 4:8) Since your souls have been purified by obedience to
the truth through the Spirit unto a genuine brotherly love, love one another
deeply with a pure heart,
23 (Heb 4:12; 1Pe 1:3) for you have been born again, not from perishable seed,
but imperishable, through the word of God which lives and abides forever.
24 (Isa 40:6-8; Jas 1:10-11) For
"All flesh is as grass,
and all the glory of man as the flower of grass.
The grass withers, and its flower falls away,
25 (Isa 40:8) but the word of the Lord endures forever."
This is the word that was preached to you.
[13] Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end
for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus
Christ;
[14] As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former
lusts in your ignorance:
[15] But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of
conversation;
[16] Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
[17] And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth
according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in
fear:
[18] Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things,
as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from
your fathers;
[19] But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and
without spot:
[20] Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was
manifest in these last times for you,
[21] Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and
gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
[22] Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the
Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another
with a pure heart fervently:
[23] Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the
word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
[24] For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of
grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
[25] But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which
by the gospel is preached unto you.
1 Peter 2
The Living Stone and the Holy Nation
1 (Eph 4:31; Jas 4:11; 1:21) Therefore put away all wickedness, deceit,
hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking.
2 (Mt 18:3; Eph 4:15)As newborn babies, desire the pure milk of the word,
that by it you may grow,
3 if it is true that you have experienced that the Lord is good.
[1] Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and
envies, and all evil speakings,
[2] As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow
thereby:
[3] If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4 (1Pe 2:7) Coming to Him as to a living stone who is rejected by men,
but chosen by God and precious,
5 (Php 4:18; 1Pe 2:9; Isa 61:6) you also, as living stones, are being built
up into a spiritual house as a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual
sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
6 (Isa 28:16; Eph 2:20) For also it is contained in the Scripture,
"Look! I lay in Zion
a chief cornerstone, elect, precious,
and he who believes in Him
shall never be put to shame." (Isa 28:16.)
7 (Mt 21:42; 2Co 2:16) Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious.
But to those who are disobedient,
"The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone,"(Ps 118:22.)
8 (Isa 8:14; Ro 9:22) and,
"A stone of stumbling,
and a rock of offense."(Isa 8:14.)
They stumble because they are disobedient to the word,
to which also they were appointed.
9 (Dt 7:6; 10:15) But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy
nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may declare the
goodness of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
10 (Hos 1:9-10; 2:23) In times past, you were not a people, but now you are
the people of God. You had not received mercy, but now you have received
mercy.
[4] To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but
chosen of God, and precious,
[5] Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy
priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus
Christ.
[6] Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a
chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not
be confounded.
[7] Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be
disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the
head of the corner,
[8] And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which
stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.
[9] But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a
peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
[10] Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God:
which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
Live as Servants of God
11 (Jas 4:1; Lev 25:23) Dearly beloved, I implore you as aliens and refugees,
abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul.
12 (Mt 5:16; 1Pe 3:16) Live your lives honorably among the Gentiles, so that
though they speak against you as evildoers, they shall see your good works
and thereby glorify God in the day of visitation.
13 (Titus 3:1) Submit yourselves to every human authority for the Lord's sake,
whether it be to the king, as supreme,
14 (Ro 13:3-4) or to governors, as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers
and to praise those who do right.
15 (1Pe 2:12) For it is the will of God that by doing right you may put to
silence the ignorance of foolish men.
16 (Ro 6:22; 1Co 7:22) As free people, do not use your liberty as a covering
for evil, but live as servants of God.
17 (Ro 13:7; Pr 24:21; Ro 12:10) Honor all people. Love the brotherhood.
Fear God. Honor the king.
[11] Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from
fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;
[12] Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they
speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they
shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
[13] Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake:
whether it be to the king, as supreme;
[14] Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment
of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
[15] For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence
the ignorance of foolish men:
[16] As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but
as the servants of God.
[17] Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.
The Example of Christ's Suffering
18 (Jas 3:17) Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only
to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.
19 (Ro 13:5) For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God
a person endures grief, suffering unjustly.
20 (1Pe 2:19; 3:17) For what credit is it if when you are being beaten
for your sins you patiently endure? But if when doing good and suffering
for it, you patiently endure, this is favorable before God.
21 (Ac 14:22; Mt 16:24) For to this you were called, because Christ suffered
for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:
22 (Isa 53:9; 2Co 5:21) "He committed no sin,
nor was deceit found in His mouth."(Isa 53:9.)
23 (Isa 53:7; Lk 23:46) When He was reviled, He did not revile back; when He
suffered, He did not threaten, but He entrusted Himself to Him who judges
righteously.
24 (Ro 6:2; 6:11) He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree,
that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness.
"By His wounds you were healed."(Isa 53:5).
25 (Isa 53:6; Ps 119:176)
For you were as sheep going astray, but now have been returned
to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.
[18] Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the
good and gentle, but also to the froward.
[19] For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure
grief, suffering wrongfully.
[20] For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall
take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it
patiently, this is acceptable with God.
[21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,
leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:
[22] Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:
[23] Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he
threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:
[24] Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we,
being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were
healed.
[25] For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the
Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
1 Peter 3
Wives and Husbands
1 (1Co 7:16; Col 3:18) Likewise you wives, be submissive to your own husbands,
so that if any do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the
conduct of their wives,
2 as they see the purity and reverence of your lives.
3 (Isa 3:18-24) Do not let your adorning be the outward adorning
of braiding the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine clothing.
4 (Ro 7:22; Ps 149:4) But let it be the hidden nature of the heart, that which
is not corruptible, even the ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is
very precious in the sight of God.
5 (1Ti 5:5) For in this manner, in the old times, the holy women, who trusted
in God, adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands,
6 (Ge 18:12) even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. You are her
children as long as you do right and are not afraid with any terror.
7 (Col 3:19; 1Th 4:4) Likewise, you husbands, live considerately with
your wives, giving honor to the woman as the weaker vessel,
since they too are also heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers
will not be hindered.
[1] Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any
obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation
of the wives;
[2] While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
[3] Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair,
and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
[4] But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not
corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the
sight of God of great price.
[5] For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted
in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
[6] Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are,
as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
[7] Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving
honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together
of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
Suffering for Righteousness' Sake
8 (Mt 18:33; Ro 12:10) Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward
one another, be gracious, and be kind.
9 (Ro 12:17; 12:14; 1Th 5:15) Do not repay evil for evil, or curse for curse,
but on the contrary, bless, knowing that to this you are called, so that you
may receive a blessing.
10 (Ps 34:12-16) For
"He who would love life
and see good days,
let him keep his tongue from evil,
and his lips from speaking deceit.
11 (Ps 34:14; Mt 5:9) Let him turn away from evil and do good;
let him seek peace and pursue it.
12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and His ears are open to their prayers;
but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
13 (Pr 16:7) Who is he who will harm you if you follow that which is good?
14 (1Pe 2:19-20; Isa 8:12-13) But even if you suffer for the sake
of righteousness, you are blessed. "Do not be afraid of their terror,
do not be troubled."(Isa 8:12.)
15 (Col 4:6; Isa 29:23) But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts.
Always be ready to give an answer to every man who asks you for
a reason for the hope that is in you, with
gentleness and fear.
16 (Heb 13:18; 1Pe 2:12) Have a good conscience so that evildoers who speak
evil of you and falsely accuse your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
17 (1Pe 2:20; 4:19) For it is better, if it is the will of God, that you
suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
18 (1Pe 4:1; Heb 9:26; Ro 4:25) For Christ also has once suffered for sins,
the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, being put to death
in the flesh, but made alive by the Spirit,
19 (1Pe 4:6) by whom He also went and preached to the spirits in prison,
20 (Ge 6:3; 6:5) who in times past were disobedient, when God waited patiently
in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is,
eight souls, were saved through water.
21 (1Pe 1:3; Mk 16:16) Figuratively this is like baptism, which also saves us
now. It is not washing off the dirt from the body, but a response to God from
a good conscience through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
22 (Ro 8:38; Mk 16:19) who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand
of God, with angels and authorities and powers being made subject to Him.
[8] Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love
as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:
[9] Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise
blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a
blessing.
[10] For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his
tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
[11] Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
[12] For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open
unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
[13] And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is
good?
[14] But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not
afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
[15] But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give
an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you
with meekness and fear:
[16] Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of
evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in
Christ.
[17] For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well
doing, than for evil doing.
[18] For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust,
that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but
quickened by the Spirit:
[19] By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;
[20] Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God
waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that
is, eight souls were saved by water.
[21] The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the
putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience
toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
[22] Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and
authorities and powers being made subject unto him.
1 Peter 4
Good Stewards of God's Grace
1 (Ro 6:7; 6:2) Therefore, since Christ has suffered for us in the flesh,
arm yourselves likewise with the same mind, for he who has suffered in
the flesh has ceased from sin,
2 (Mk 3:35; Ro 6:11) so that he no longer should live the rest of his time
in the flesh serving human desires, but the will of God.
3 (Isa 28:7; Eze 44:6) For in earlier times of our lives it may have
sufficed us to do what the Gentiles like to do, when we walked in immorality:
lusts, drunkenness, carousing, debauchery, and abominable idolatries.
4 (1Pe 3:16; 2:12) They are surprised that you do not join them in the same
excess of wild living, and so they speak evil of you.
5 (Ac 10:42; 2Ti 4:1) They will give account to Him who is ready to judge
the living and the dead.
6 (1Pe 3:19) For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who
are dead, so that even though they might be judged according to men
in the flesh, they might live according to God in the spirit.
7 (1Pe 1:13; Lk 21:36) The end of all things is near.
Therefore be solemn and sober so you can pray.
8 (Pr 10:12; Jas 5:20) Above all things, have unfailing love for one another,
because love covers a multitude of sins.
9 (Php 2:14; 1Ti 3:2) Show hospitality to one another without complaining.
10 (1Co 4:1-2; Lk 12:42) As everyone has received a gift, even so serve one
another with it, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
11 (Ac 7:38; 1Co 10:31) If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.
If anyone serves, let him serve with the strength that God supplies, so that
God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ,
to whom be praise and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
[1] Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm
yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the
flesh hath ceased from sin;
[2] That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the
lusts of men, but to the will of God.
[3] For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of
the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine,
revellings, banqueting, and abominable idolatries:
[4] Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same
excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
[5] Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the
dead.
[6] For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead,
that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according
to God in the spirit.
[7] But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch
unto prayer.
[8] And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity
shall cover the multitude of sins.
[9] Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
[10] As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to
another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
[11] If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man
minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all
things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion
for ever and ever. Amen.
Suffering as a Christian
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place
among you to test you, as though some strange thing happened to you.
13 (Ro 8:17; Php 3:10) But rejoice insofar as you share in Christ's sufferings,
so that you may rejoice and be glad also in the revelation
of His glory.
14 (Mt 5:11; 1Pe 3:16) If you are reproached because of the name of Christ,
you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.
15 (1Th 4:11; 2Th 3:11) Let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief,
or an evildoer, or even as a busybody.
16 (Ac 5:41; 26:28) Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be
ashamed, but let him glorify God because of it.
17 (Jer 25:29; 2Th 1:8) For the time has come for judgment to begin
at the house of God, and if it begins first with us, what shall the end
be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
18 (Pr 11:31; Lk 23:31) And
"If the righteous one is scarcely saved,
where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?"(Pr 11:31.)
19 (Ps 31:5; Lk 23:46) So then, let those who suffer according to the will
of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator, while continuing
to do good.
[12] Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to
try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
[13] But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that,
when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
[14] If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the
spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken
of, but on your part he is glorified.
[15] But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an
evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
[16] Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let
him glorify God on this behalf.
[17] For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and
if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the
gospel of God?
[18] And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the
sinner appear?
[19] Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the
keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
1 Peter 5
Tending the Flock of God
1 (Lk 24:48; Ac 11:30) I exhort the elders who are among you,
as one who is also an elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ
as well as a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
2 (1Ti 3:8; 3:3) Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, take care
of them, not by constraint, but willingly, not for dishonest gain,
but eagerly.
3 (Eze 34:4; Php 3:17) Do not lord over those in your charge,
but be examples to the flock.
4 (1Co 9:25; Jas 1:12; 1Pe 1:4) And when the chief Shepherd appears,
you will receive a crown of glory that will not fade away.
5 (Jas 4:6; Eph 5:21) Likewise you younger ones, submit yourselves
to the elders. Yes, all of you be submissive one to another
and clothe yourselves with humility, because
"God resists the proud,
but gives grace to the humble."(Pr 3:34.)
6 (Jas 4:10; Mt 23:12) Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,
that He may exalt you in due time.
7 (Ps 55:22; 37:5) Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.
8 (Job 2:2; Eph 6:11) Be sober and watchful, because your adversary
the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9 (Ac 14:22; Jas 4:7) Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that
the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.
10 (2Co 4:17; 2Th 2:17; 1Co 1:9) But after you have suffered a little while,
the God of all grace, who has called us to His eternal glory through Christ
Jesus, will restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.
11 (1Pe 4:11) To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
[1] The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a
witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that
shall be revealed:
[2] Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof,
not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
[3] Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the
flock.
[4] And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of
glory that fadeth not away.
[5] Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you
be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth
the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
[6] Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may
exalt you in due time:
[7] Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
[8] Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring
lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
[9] Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are
accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
[10] But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by
Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect,
stablish, strengthen, settle you.
[11] To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
12 (Heb 13:22; 2Co 1:19; Ac 20:24) With the help of Silas, whom I consider
to be a faithful brother to you, I have written briefly, exhorting you
and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which you stand.
13 (Ac 12:12; 12:25) The church that is at Babylon, elect together with you,
greets you, and so does Mark, my son.
14 (Ro 16:16; Eph 6:23) Greet one another with a kiss of love.
Peace be with all you who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
[12] By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written
briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God
wherein ye stand.
[13] The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you;
and so doth Marcus my son.
[14] Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that
are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 December 2023 Titled
Appetite for Distraction
Psalms 131
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Lord, my heart is not haughty, my eyes are not raised too high.
I have not striven for enormities, for things too wonderful for me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I composed and quieted my desire,
like a child given suck by his mother;
like a child who sucks is my desire within me.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Let Israel hope in the Lord from now and forever.
Psalm 131
[1] LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I
exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
[2] Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of
his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
[3] Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever
I set my phone down, weary of the constant bombardment of images, ideas, and
notifications that the little screen broadcasted. Then, I picked it up and
turned it on again. Why?
In his book The Shallows, Nicholas Carr describes how the internet has shaped
our relationship with stillness: "What the Net seems to be doing is chipping
away my capacity for concentration and contemplation. Whether I'm online or
not, my mind now expects to take in information the way the Net distributes
it: in a swiftly moving stream of particles. Once I was a scuba diver in the
sea of words. Now I zip along the surface like a guy on a Jet Ski."
Living life on a mental jet ski doesn't sound healthy. But how do we begin to
slow down, to dive deeply into still spiritual waters?
In Psalm 131, David writes, "I have behaved and quieted myself" (v. 2).
David's words remind me that I have responsibility. Changing habits starts
with my choice to be still-even if I must make that choice over and over
again. Slowly, though, we experience God's satisfying goodness. Like a little
child, we rest in contentment, remembering that He alone offers hope (v. 3)
-soul-satisfaction that no smartphone app can touch and no social media site
can deliver.
By: Adam Holz
Reflect & Pray
How does technology influence your ability to rest quietly before God?
Does your phone contribute to your contentment? Why or why not?
Father, the world is awash in distraction that
doesn't satisfy my soul. Please help me trust You to fill me with
genuine contentment.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 5 Called by Name
Isaiah 43:1
1 But now, thus says the Lord who created you, O Jacob,
and He who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name; you are Mine.
1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob,
and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:
for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
Eric, age 4, somehow lost his mother in a large and busy department store.
Found sobbing under a coat rack, the boy tried to tell the security guard
where he was when he got separated from his mother. Finally the guard said,
"what's your name, Son? Who do you belong to?"
The child brightened a bit, gave the guard his name, and within minutes
the frantic mother was reunited with her lost son.
One of the first questions we are asked, both as children and adults, is
"What is your name?" - that is, "Who are you? Who do you belong to?"
Children bear the name of their parents, and most women,
except for professional reasons,
take the name of their husbands when they marry.
Our names are our primary method of identification;
they connect us with our heritage and those we love.
In Isaiah 43:1, God declares that we belong to him.
The Lord who created us and formed us says,
"I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine." God's
right of ownership in our lives extends beyond the bond of family and friends,
of parent, child, or spouse. We belong first to him;
we are called by him into oneness with him.
The Scripture is filled with images of the Lord's care for us;
when we are lost, he does
not wait for us to find him,
but takes the initiative, like a loving parent
to seek us out. That declaration of belonging can give us
a strong sense of security in our lives. God loves us;
he will never let us go.
Application
a) What experiences have I had of being lost of abandoned?
b) How can today's verse help me find security in belonging to God?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Gen 26:12-14
12 (Ge 26:3; 24:1) Then Isaac sowed in that land
and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; the Lord blessed him.
13 The man became rich and continued to prosper until he became very wealthy.
14 (Ge 37:11; Ecc 4:4) For he had possessions of flocks and herds
and a great number of servants so that the Philistines envied him.
12 Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year
an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.
13 And the man waxed great, and went forward,
and grew until he became very great:
14 for he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds,
and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Unfailing Love
Ps 36:5-9
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens,
and Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Your righteousness is like the great mountains,
Your judgments like the great deep; O Lord, You preserve man and beast.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) How excellent is Your lovingkindness, O God!
Therefore mankind seeks refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) They will drink their fill
from the abundance of Your house,
and You will cause them to drink from the river of Your pleasures.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) For with You is the fountain of life;
in Your light we see light.
5 Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens;
And thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.
6 Thy righteousness is like the great mountains;
Thy judgments are a great deep:
O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.
7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God!
Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
8 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house;
And thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.
9 For with thee is the fountain of life: In thy light shall we see light.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Advent Day 19
From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God.
We do not know... how things would have worked if the
human race had never rebelled against God and joined the enemy....
You and I are concerned with the way things work now."
- C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 178.)
Why Did He Do It?
Have you ever noticed that children have so many of the same mannerisms as their parents?
They walk, gesture, and even laugh like their parents. Children also mimic the bad traits
of their parents, but it is a great compliment to parents that their sons and daughters are like them.
Why did the Son of God become one of us? Certainly not for his own benefit. John says it this way,
"But to as many as received him, to them he gave power to become the sons of God."
Lewis says it similarly, "The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God."
God didn't become a man to impress anyone, least of all us. God was in the business of raising up
us men and women to become like him, people who walk in his ways, who act like he acted
and do what he did. Jesus became like us so that we might become like him.
Parents want their children to grow up to be like them. Setting aside our faults for the moment,
it is better for them to become like us than to stay children. That is also our Father's intent for us.
At times, it is painful when God molds and shapes us to be conformed to the image of his Son.
But we become more ourselves when we become like him.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons
and daughters. Amen.
Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,
to those who believed in His name, John 1:12,
and have embraced the new nature,
which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him who created it,
Col. 3:10
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
THURSDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
His name is John.
He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."
-Luke 1:63a
All the friends and relatives wanted to name the child Zechariah
after his father. However, Elizabeth and Zechariah were adamant
that he was to be called John. The people were amazed-this was not
a family name, they cried. But it was the name the angel Gabriel
had given to Zechariah in the Temple, so it was God's
ordinance that he should be so designated.
If the people were astounded by the couple's unusual unanimity
about this unique name, they were even more surprised on this
circumcision day by the opening of Zechariah's mouth.
He spoke clearly-his tongue was free! and, most important,
he acclaimed God!
Zechariah had had more than nine months to contemplate things.
He was overwhelmed with Joy that he and Elizabeth had borne
a child in their old age, and he was awed that even before
birth John had been filled with the Holy Spirit. Thus, Zechariah
burst out with praise at God's working.
Prayer
Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.
Amen.
Read Luke 1:59-64.
59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.
And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.
60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”
61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives
who is called by this name."
62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.
63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."
And they all were amazed.
64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,
and he spoke and praised God.
From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD THURSDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ABSOLUTES!
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according
to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living hope
through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that
does not fade away, kept in heaven for you, 1 PETER 1:3-4
Joy to the World is a hymn that should be sung all year long!
We boldly proclaim that there is joy in this world because the Lord HAS
come! Have you ever sung a stanza that goes. "Joy to the world, the Lord
might come," or "the Lord is thinking of coming." or "shape up and he will
come"? Me neither!
Absolutes is a big AH-HA of Advent. It affirms that Advent is not a time
to pretend that the Lord is coming, but that he has indeed come to
us already! And with this absolute truth of the Gospel we also receive
absolution of our sins--again because (he Lord has come to live, suffer,
die and rise for us! We are forgiven . . . absolutely!
Think of other absolutes in your life. l think of love for family although
mess that up at times; and of life being a gift from God,. although
sometimes do not live like it is; and, of course, it is an absolute that
the Chicago Cubs will never win another World Series
but that's another story!
1 Peter 1 affirms in us that the absolute of Advent is that the Lord has given us
"a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ"!
So enjoy the day, absolutely, in the Lord. Sit back. relax. enjoy--there is
nothing left for us to do. Soren Kierkegaard once said, "Laughter is a type
of prayer." Perhaps he meant that laughter, like prayer, allows us to give up
our need to control or manage. Just receive the Christ of Christmas!
Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long
time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come
to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read 1 Peter 1:3-9
3 (1Co 15:20; 2Co 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who according to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living
hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
4 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 4:8) to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that
does not fade away, kept in heaven for you,
5 (Eph 2:8) who are protected by the power of God through faith for
a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
6 (Jas 1:2; Isa 61:3; Ro 5:2) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now,
if for a little while, you have had to suffer various trials,
7 (Job 23:10; Pr 17:3; Isa 48:10) in order that the genuineness of your faith,
which is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tried by fire,
may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation
of Jesus Christ,
8 (Jn 20:29; Heb 11:27) whom, having not seen, you love; and in whom,
though you do not see Him now, you believe and you rejoice with joy
unspeakable and full of glory,
9 (Ro 6:22) receiving as the result of your faith the salvation of your souls.
From On Eagle's wings Day 18
Titled Celebration through Empowerment by Rev. Victor Johnson (Anglican)
Diocese of the Arctic Aklavik, Northwest Territories
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
To keep up the Christian faith is so crucial in the challenging
times that we live in. Life in the Canadian North is exciting,
but requires depending on the grace, leading, and anointing of
the Holy Spirit.
After the pandemic, many are anxious to understand the
purpose of Christian existence. As we celebrate Christmas, it
is good to remind ourselves that we are to experience and
celebrate the light that is given to us by the birth of Jesus
Christ.
Amid darkness, we are to enjoy the hope, joy and peace
granted to us, by learning to put our trust always in our Lord
and Saviour Jesus alone.
Fulfillment in Jesus is only possible by receiving the
empowerment of the Holy Spirit, who provides focus, purpose
and meaning to our life.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to live in the Holy Ways of the Lord.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, the world is awash in distraction that
doesn't satisfy my soul. Please help me trust You to fill me with
genuine contentment."
Pray to the Lord and pray to know that securely he has called you be name.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for His Blessings.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know him as a refuge!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons
and daughters. Amen.
Pray: Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.
Pray: Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long
time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come
to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Loving and compassionate God, we thank you for the
assurance of your anointing to live a life full of light. May
we be filled with joy and peace to be your witnesses in the
midst of Christmas celebrations this year. Amen.
Pray for pastors in Sri Lanka who are planting house churches in unreached
villages.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.