1 Peter 1:3-9 ESV: Hope and Inheritance in Christ
The Blessing of God
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you (1 Peter 1:3-4, ESV).
In this passage, Peter blesses God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for the incredible gift of salvation. He emphasizes God's abundant mercy, which has given us a new birth, a living hope, and an imperishable inheritance.
The Living Hope
The hope referred to in this passage is not a vague or uncertain hope, but a living one. It is a hope that is rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This hope is not based on human endeavor or achievement but on the power of Christ's resurrection.
The Inheritance Reserved in Heaven
This inheritance is not something that we can earn or deserve; rather, it is a gift reserved in heaven for believers. It is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, unlike the perishable and corruptible things of this world.
Protected by God's Power
who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:5, ESV).
God's power is what keeps us safe and secure until the day of salvation. This power is not just a theoretical concept but a dynamic and active force that sustains and protects us.
Trials and the Proven Authenticity of Faith
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:6-7, ESV).
Peter reminds us that our faith is authentic and genuine when it is tested by trials and difficulties. Just as gold is refined by fire, our faith is purified and proven through the challenges we face.
The Joy of Salvation
and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:8-9, ESV).
Despite not having seen Jesus, believers love and believe in Him, and this faith brings an inexpressible and glorious joy. The outcome of this faith is the salvation of our souls, which is the ultimate blessing and inheritance.
