The Assurance of Salvation
1 Peter 1:5-9
Preservation and Protection
In this passage, Peter writes about the assurance of salvation and the preservation of believers. He emphasizes that Christians are protected by God's power through faith, and that this protection is not just for the present but also for the future.
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 NKJV)
The phrase "kept by the power of God" is significant. The word "kept" means to guard or to protect. It is a powerful verb that conveys the idea of being shielded or safeguarded. The agents of this protection are God's power, which is the source of this safeguarding.
Faith: The Instrument of Salvation
"who are kept by the power of God through faith..." (1 Peter 1:5 NKJV)
Faith is the instrument through which God's power is working in our lives. It is the means by which we receive salvation, and it is also the means by which we are preserved. Our faith is not just a one-time event; it is an ongoing process of trusting in God and His promises.
The Inheritance of Salvation
"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ," (1 Peter 1:6-7 NKJV)
Peter is saying that our salvation is an inheritance, waiting for us in heaven. It is a reward that is reserved for us, and it is worth more than all the gold in the world. But before we can receive this inheritance, our faith must be tested and refined.
The Joy of Salvation
"whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory," (1 Peter 1:8 NKJV)
Peter writes that even though we have not seen Jesus, we love Him. And even though we do not see Him now, we believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy. This joy is not based on our circumstances; it is based on our hope in Jesus Christ.
The Outcome of Faith
"receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls." (1 Peter 1:9 NKJV)
The outcome of our faith is the salvation of our souls. This is the ultimate goal of our faith, and it is the reason why we persevere through trials and difficulties. We know that our faith will ultimately lead us to the salvation of our souls, and that is a cause for great joy and rejoicing.
