Believer’s Handbook for Strangers and Pilgrims

(Gleanings from 1 Peter)

Purpose of this work: To look at what the Word of God has to say regarding our mindset and walk as believer strangers and pilgrims.

Quotes:“We are called to be pilgrims, not settlers” (author unknown)

“Not only are we God’s beloved children, but we are also “strangers [sojourners] and “pilgrims” in this world. We are “resident aliens” who have our citizenship in another country-heaven”

(Warren Wiersbe; Be Hopeful)

“Christians, whose citizenship is in heaven (cf. Php_3:20), live in the midst of a pagan society as aliens and sojourners, displaced persons whose thoughts should often turn toward their true home.” (Bible Knowledge Commentary)

Terms DefinedOT

H1616/ger Strangers/aliens: temporary inhabitant, a newcomer lacking inherited rights

Genesis 23:4; 1 Chronicles 29:15; Psalms 39:12; 119:19

H8453/toshab Sojourners/foreigner: distinguished from a native citizen; sojourning in a strange country where he is not naturalizes

Genesis 23:4; 1 Chronicles 29:15; Psalms 39:12

Gen 23:3 Then Abraham stood up from before his dead, and spoke to the sons of Heth, saying,

Gen 23:4 "I am a foreigner and a visitor among you. Give me property for a burial place among you, that I may bury my dead out of my sight."

1Ch 29:15 For we are aliens and pilgrims before You, As were all our fathers; Our days on earth are as a shadow, And without hope.

Psa 39:12 "Hear my prayer, O LORD, And give ear to my cry; Do not be silent at my tears; For I am a stranger with You, A sojourner, as all my fathers were.

NTG3927/parepidemos: one who comes from a foreign to reside next to the natives, one who resides in a country that is not his own; also known as exiles, temporary residents, those away from their homes, those temporarily residing abroad; one who makes a brief stay in a strange or foreign place, who sojourns or who resides temporarily among a native people to whom he or she does not belong; they did not expect to be regarded as a native of the place they resided.

-para (3844): alongside of (think of parallel lines)-epidemeo (1927): to be a sojourner, of a foreign resident

Hebrews 11:13; 1 Peter 1:1; 2:11

1Pe 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the pilgrims of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

1Pe 1:2 elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied.

1Pe 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

1Pe 2:10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

1Pe 2:11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,

Persons sojourning for a brief season in a foreign country. Though applied primarily to Hebrews scattered throughout the world (Gen_23:4; Psa_39:12), it has here a wider, spiritual sense, contemplating Christians as having their citizenship in heaven. Compare Heb_11:13. The preposition παρα, in composition, implies a sense of transitoriness, as of one who passes by to something beyond. (Vincent’s Word Studies)

The picture in the metaphor here is that heaven is our native country and we are only temporary sojourners here on earth. (A. T. Robertson’s Word Pictures)

1) Our origin is foreign2) We are to reside “next to” the natives. We are to maintain our

uniqueness.3) We are residing in a country that is not our own.4) Our residing is temporary.

G3941/paroikos strangers: having a home near, that is, (as noun) a by-dweller (alien resident): - foreigner, sojourn, stranger.

1Pe 2:11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,

G3581/xenos Strangers: alien; without a shareHebrews 11:13

Heb 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

The Mindset of the Pilgrim needed for his journey1Pe 1:13 Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest [your] hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

*Therefore: due to the greatness of the salvation message that has been given to us, we should gird up the loins of our mind*gird up (anazonnumi/328): a metaphor derived from the practice of the Orientals, who in order to be unimpeded in their movements were accustomed, when starting a journey or engaging in any work, to bind their long flowing garments closely around their bodies and fastened them with a leather belt. The figure is taken from the circumstances of the Israelites as they ate the Passover in readiness for their journey, Exodus 12:11.

-see John 21:18-aorist middle participle

-aorist: The aorist represents an action seen as an event, rather than continuous (present). This use of the aorist sees the action in view of the whole journey (girding up the loins of your mind once for all before you begin)-middle: you can only do this for yourself -from ana/303 (up) and zonnumi/2224 (to gird)-Use of zonnumi in the Greek Septuagint:2Ki 4:29 Then he (Elisha) said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: if thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff upon the face of the child. (KJV)2Ki 4:29 Then he (Elisha) said to Gehazi, "Get yourself ready, and take my staff in your hand, and be on your way. If you meet anyone, do not greet him; and if anyone greets you, do not answer him; but lay my staff on the face of the child." (NKJV)

The figure is taken from the circumstances of the Israelites as they ate the Passover in readiness for their journey, Exo_12:11; the Christian is to have his mental powers alert in expectation of Christ's coming. The verb is in the middle voice, indicating the special interest the believer is to take in so doing. (Vine’s Expository Dictionary of NT Words)

Exd 12:11 NKJV - And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the LORD's Passover.

-The illustration that comes to mind is that of tying your shoes in preparation for going on a walk. The Father desires that we would gather up the loose thinking in our mind in preparation for a journey and continuously be calm and clear headed as we make our way as pilgrims.

“Peter treats this as a God-expected obligation on the part of the believer.” (Wuest)

The aorist tense pictures a past once-for-all completed action in preparation for a course of activity, a strenuous life of obedience. They were to have their minds in constant preparation to discharge the duties, or to endure the trials of life - like those who were prepared for labor, for a race, or for a conflict. Middle voice indicates the action performed is for one's own benefit and conveys a reflexive sense - "Gird up for YOURSELF the loins of your mind”. The middle implies that the person does the girding in his own interest. The mind ought to be free from any hindrance (for example, fear or worry) to serve the Lord. (Precept Austin)

The girding up of the mind is an interesting figure of speech. In eastern lands, people wore long, flowing robes. When they wanted to walk fast or with a minimum of hindrance, they would tie the robe up around their waist with a belt (see Exo_12:11). In this way they girded up their loins. But what does Peter mean by gird up the loins of your mind? As they went out into a hostile world, believers were to avoid panic and distraction. In times of persecution, there is always the tendency to become rattled and confused. A girded mind is one that is strong, composed, cool, and ready for action. It is unimpeded by the distraction of human fear or persecution. (Believer’s Bible Commentary)

So girding up your mind involves removing anything that would hinder the free action of the mind in relationship to spiritual growth or progress. The recipients of this letter are reminded by the apostle in 1Pe 1:1 (note) that they are strangers, those who have temporarily settled down alongside of a pagan population and later as pilgrims (1Pe 2:11-note). As such they should always be ready to move. As the traveler, the racer, the warrior, and the laborer, gathered in their long and loose garments, that they might be ready in their business, so Christians should do in their minds and affections. The image is one of preparing for battle or rugged travel. The believer is to grab hold of his mind and take charge of his thought life—to bring it under obedience to Christ (2Cor 10:5). It is not physical exertion that Peter has in mind here, but mental. If the purpose of girding up the clothing was to put out of the way that which would impede the physical progress of an individual, the girding up of the loins of the mind would be the putting out of the mind all that would impede the free action of the mind in connection with the onward progress of the Christian experience, things such as worry, fear, jealousy, hate, unforgiveness, impurity. These things harbored in the mind prevent the Holy Spirit from using the mental faculties of the Christian in the most efficient manner, and impede growth in the "grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2Pe 3:18) (PA)

*loins of your mind: the loins are the place where the Hebrews thought the generative power resided, the place of creation. The “loins of our mind” is the place in our thinking where thoughts are conceived. The admonition is that we are not to let our thoughts run wild. We need to stay focused if we are to operate as pilgrims in our journeys here on earth.

Eph 6:14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,

*mind (dianoia/1271): the mind as a faculty of understanding, feeling and desiring, the way of thinking, imagination, understanding, intention, comprehension

2Pe 3:1 Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder),

The idea inherent in dianoia is what goes through (dia = through) one's mind and so one's thought processes and finally the mind in general. It focuses more on one's ability to think or perceive and thus describes that function of the mind with by which one organizes perceptions.The loins were girded by gathering the long folds of the wide undergarment in a girdle in order to supply the body with a firm stay and to remove all hindrances, when the object was to work, to set out on a journey, to run, to carry a burden, to wrestle or to go to war. So the Christian should gird the dianoia, gather up all distractedness and fickleness, and be astir and ready, that is, his thoughts and his will should be alive and concentrated when there is a call for work, for fight and for suffering. (PA)

*be sober (nepho/3525): to be calm and collected in spirit; temperate; dispassionate; in control of one’s thought processes; to be clear headed, to be watchful

-present active participle (be continuously sober)*As sons of light, we are to operate soberly in contrast to those who are in

darkness.1Th 5:6 Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be

sober. 1Th 5:7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are

drunk at night. 1Th 5:8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.

*As those called to suffer, we are to be clear headed in our prayers, free from all distractions1Pe 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

*We are to be calm and collected in the face of Satanic attacks 1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

The idea is to “make sure you keep all your faculties fully operational”. This trait describes one who is free from every form of mental and spiritual ‘drunkenness’, from excess, passion,

rashness, confusion, etc. be well-balanced, self-controlled. Peter gives us an injunction to sane appraisal of the facts, without undue emotion and panic.

He says that we are to continually (present tense) make the choice of our will (active voice = volitional choice) to be watchful, calm and collected in spirit, temperate, dispassionate and circumspect in this present evil age. Its image of not being drunk when it comes to spiritual things and implies alertness and evaluating things correctly, because you see clearly, and your mind isn't numb with intoxicating influences. Such a person is able to see things without the distortion caused by worry, fear, and their related attitudes. (PA)

*hope (elpizo/1679): to wait for salvation with joy and confidence, to expect, to trust

-aorist active imperative (1st of 36 imperatives in 1 Peter)-A command to be done once, rather than continuous (like setting the destination of your journey before you begin)*Our hope/confidence in the future redemption of our bodiesRom 8:23 Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. Rom 8:24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? Rom 8:25 But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with

perseverance.

*Our hope is based on Christ’s resurrection from the dead1Co 15:16 For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. 1Co 15:17 And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your

sins! 1Co 15:18 Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 1Co 15:19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the

most pitiable. 1Co 15:20 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

*Our trust/hope is not to be in riches, but in the Lord1Ti 6:17 Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.

The Septuagint uses the word 91x, 70x in the Psalms, where it is usually translated “trust”Psa 18:2 The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.Psa 18:30 As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. Psa 31:24 Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD.

Fix your hope is the first command following Peter's unveiling of the riches of our salvation in 1:1-12, and is in the aorist imperative which conveys the need for each believer to make this a decisive choice. It is like a command from a general to his troops engaged in deadly combat. "Hope fully!"  It conveys a sense of urgency. Do it now. Do it once for all. Do it effectively but just do it! The active voice  indicates that this is a voluntary choice of each person's will. The point is that God won't force us to "fix our hope" on "future grace". His word tells us much about what "future grace" and glory entail to motivate us but ultimately we must make a decision to "Do it now".

Too often we “set our hope” on some near, immediate "grace". “Lord, I’d like a new job.” “Lord, heal my illness.” “Lord, if only You’ll let us get this home of our own.” “Father, I know this marriage is just what I need to make me happy!” We may indeed get what we ask and hope for in this life. But any earthly prospect can disappoint, and every earthly possession be torn from our grasp. Only when we set our hope “fully” on the grace that will be ours when Jesus comes will we be immune to life’s losses." (Richards, L.. The 365 day devotional commentary. Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books)

Remember we are aliens (parepidemois) in "enemy territory" so to speak and are to be good soldiers of Christ Jesus.

So the first command in this letter is an action we are to carry out with our mind (and our heart - it's not just an "intellectual" exercise but a heart attitude that is the seedbed for a heart response). Peter is commanding us to live with an experiential hope -- “Pull your mind together and have the right mental attitude in view of our Lord’s return.”

Notice that "fix your hope completely" is the main verb in this verse and is modified by the two subordinate participles (a participle ends in "-ing"), the first being "you yourself having girded the loins of your mind at a definite point in time" and then "continually being sober". Then comes the main verb "Hope fully!" Which simply means that girding up the loins of our minds and being sober in our spirits are both "actions" which are means to the end hoping fully, which is the main charge that Peter is conveying. (PA)

*fully (teleios/5049): perfectly, completely, to the end*grace (charis/5485): gift, favor, benefits, loving-kindness

*to be brought (phero/5342): to bring to, to bring forward, to bring in by announcing

-present passive participle (that is being brought)-The grace that will be fully manifested to us at the appearance of Jesus Christ is actually available to us now

*revelation (apokalupsis/602): disclosure, manifestation, appearance, coming-appearance of Christ to the Church/Rapture (1 Cor. 1:7; 1 Pet. 1:7; 5:1, 4)

Therefore having girded up the loins of your mind (to start your journey), be continuously clear headed for the duration of your journey, and rest your hope fully (your fixed point of destination of your journey) upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Wherefore, having put out of the way once for all everything that would impede the free action of your mind, be calm and collected in spirit, and set your hope perfectly, wholly, and unchangeably, without doubt and despondency, upon the grace that is to be brought to you upon the occasion of the revelation of Jesus Christ; (Wuest)

The Spiritual Service of the Pilgrim1Pe 2:5 you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

*living stones: see previous verseAs stones are cut to fit the purpose of the builder in constructing a building, so we as believers are cut (i.e. suffering) by the Master Builder to fit His purpose, so that we may fit into His design of His building for His glory.

*being built up (oikodomeo/3618): to build a house, to erect a building, to grow-present passive indicative Mat 16:18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.

Eph 2:19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, Eph 2:20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, Eph 2:21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, Eph 2:22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of

God in the Spirit

*spiritual (pneumatikos/4152): pertaining to the Spirit, of spiritual thingsRom 1:11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—

Eph 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,

*house (oikos/3624): house, building, dwelling place, referring to the Church of God

1Pe 4:17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?

Under the Law, God’s glory (the shekinah glory) was manifested on the earth first in the tabernacle:

Exo 40:34 Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle. Exo 40:35 And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

And then in the temple:

2Ch 7:1 When Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. 2Ch 7:2 And the priests could not enter the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled the LORD's house.

But in the Dispensation of Grace, it is the spiritual body of believers that is the dwelling place of the Lord and that is to display His glory:

2Co 6:16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM. I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE."

*priesthood (hierateuma/2406): office of priest, the order or body of priests1Pe 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

Under the law, only those of the tribe of Levi could operate as priests. But in the dispensation of the Church, every believer has access to the throne of grace and is to function as a believer-priest.

*offer up (anaphero/399): to offer up on an altar, to bare up-aorist active infinitive

Heb 7:26 For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; Heb 7:27 who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the people's, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. Heb 9:26 He then would have had to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Heb 9:27 And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the

judgment, Heb 9:28 so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.

Heb 13:15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

*sacrifices (thusia/2378): offering-Rom 12:1; Eph 5:2; Phil 2:17, 4:18; Heb 5:1; 7:27; 8:3; 9:9, 23, 26; 10:1, 5, 8, 11, 12, 26; 11:4; 13:5-6

It is important to see that in this verse, believers in this dispensation of the grace of God are BOTH the priesthood and the temple (Eph. 2:21-22). As strangers and pilgrims, it is appropriate that our priestly service before the Father (every believer is a believer-priest) would not be dependent on any physical location or building, but would be spiritual in nature. The worship center is wherever the Lord would have us to go.

In the temple at Jerusalem, the priesthood appointed to minister there, and to offer sacrifices, constituted an essential part of the arrangement. It was important, therefore, to show that this was not overlooked in the spiritual temple that God was raising. Accordingly, the apostle says that this is amply provided for, by constituting “the whole body of Christians” to be in fact a priesthood. Everyone is engaged in offering acceptable sacrifice to God. The business is not entrusted to a particular class to be known as priests; there is not a particular portion to whom the name is to be especially given; but every Christian is in fact a priest, and is engaged in offering an acceptable sacrifice to God. See Rev_1:6; “And hath made us: kings and priests unto God.” The Great High Priest in this service is the Lord Jesus Christ, (see the Epistle to the Hebrews, passim) but besides him there is no one who sustains this office, except as it is borne by all the Christian members. (Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible)

The spiritual house is built up of all believers in Christ, and is therefore the same as the church. The church has this in common with the temple of the OT that it is the dwelling place of God on earth (1Ki_6:11-13; Eph_2:22). But it is contrasted with the temple, a physical, tangible building made of beautiful but lifeless, perishable materials. The church is a structure built of living stones.Now the figure changes swiftly from a spiritual house to the holy priesthood that functions in connection with the house. Believers are not only living building blocks in the house; they are holy priests as well. Under the Mosaic Law, the priesthood was limited to the tribe of Levi and the family of Aaron. And even those who were priests were forbidden to approach the Presence of God. Only the high priest could do that on one day of the year (Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement) following the precisely ordained procedure outlined for the event by the Lord.In the new dispensation, all believers are priests with instant access to the Throne Room of the universe, day or night. Their function is to offer up spiritual sacrifices (in contrast to the animal, bird, and meal offerings of the Mosaic Law). (BBC)

*Sacrifices of the grace believer:1) bodyRom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

-service (latreia/2999): divine service (used in relation to the tabernacle)2) faith Php 2:17 Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.

*service (leitourgia/3009): service or ministry of the priests3) giving Php 4:18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

*sweet-smelling (euodia/2175): spoken of the smell of sacrifices and obligations,

agreeable to the ancient notion that God smells and is pleased with the odor of

sacrifices4) praise Heb 13:15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.

*offer (ana/399): to bring to the altar*praise (ainesis/133): thank offering*giving thanks (homolegeo/3670): to agree, to say the same thing

*name (onoma/3686): the name refers to the person.

5) to do good

Heb 13:16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

*do good (eupoiia/2140): to benefit

6) to fellowshipHeb 13:16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased

*to share (2842): to fellowship, to communicate

*acceptable (euprosdektos/2144): well received, pleasing, favorableThrough the merits of the great sacrifice made by the Redeemer on the cross. Our prayers and praises are in themselves so imperfect, and proceed from such polluted lips and hearts, that they can be acceptable only through him as our intercessor before the throne of God. Compare the notes at Heb_9:24-25; Heb_10:19-22. (Barnes)

These sacrifices are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. It is only through Jesus Christ, our Mediator, that we can approach God in the first place, and it is only He who can make our offerings acceptable to God. All that we do—our worship and our service—is imperfect, flawed by sin. But before it reaches the Father, it passes through the Lord Jesus. He removes all the sin, and when it reaches God the Father it is perfectly acceptable. (BBC)

The Spiritual Lineage of the Pilgrim1Pe 2:9 But you [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;

*chosen (eklektos/1588): picked out*generation (genos/1085): offspring, nationality, aggregate of many individuals of the same nature, kindred, lineage*royal (basileios/934): regal, that which is suitable for a king

-only used here in the NT and in Exodus 19:6; 23:22 in the Septuagint

What an incredible privilege NT believers possess in Christ. In the OT, even the kings of Israel did not serve as a priest, and the one who tried was judged by God (read about it in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). No so for NT believers who are of royal lineage in Christ the King of kings. (PA)

2Ch 26:16 But when he (King Uzziah) was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. 2Ch 26:17 So Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him were eighty priests of the LORD—valiant men. 2Ch 26:18 And they withstood King Uzziah, and said to him, "It is not for you, Uzziah, to burn incense to the LORD, but for the priests, the sons of Aaron, who are consecrated to burn incense. Get out of the sanctuary, for you have trespassed! You shall have no honor from the LORD God."

*priesthood (hierateuma/2406): office of priest-1 Peter 2:5Rev 1:5 and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, Rev 1:6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Rev 20:6 Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.

The first resurrection is the resurrection into life. Every believer of every dispensation has a part on that. The second resurrection is into eternal judgment (lake of fire).

Exo 19:4 'You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings and brought you to Myself. Exo 19:5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine.

Exo 19:6 And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel."

What God had promised to Israel if they obeyed, He has given to every believer in this dispensation of the grace of God.

*holy (hagios/40): separate, set apart*nation (ethnos/1484): multitude of individuals of the same nature, of the same

tribe (specifically a foreign one), Gentiles Mat 21:42 Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: 'THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED HAS BECOME THE CHIEF CORNERSTONE. THIS WAS THE LORD'S DOING, AND IT IS MARVELOUS IN OUR EYES' ? Mat 21:43 "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing the fruits of it.

*special (peripoiesis/4047): acquisition, possession, one’s own property, preservation, to make a ring around something to mark it as your own

Eph 1:13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, Eph 1:14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.

*people (laos/2992): people all of the same stock and language, nationAct 15:12 Then all the multitude kept silent and listened to Barnabas and Paul declaring how many miracles and wonders God had worked through them among the Gentiles. Act 15:13 And after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and brethren, listen to me: Act 15:14 Simon has declared how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.

Tit 2:14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

*proclaim (exaggello/1804): to declare, to celebrate, to publish*praises (arête/703): virtuous course of thought, feeling and action, moral goodness, moral excellency

-Phil 4:8, 2 Pet 1:2*called (kaleo/2564): to invite, to summon

-aorist active participle-2nd of Peter’s callings for the believer (see 1:15, 2:21, 3:9; 5:10)

*darkness (skotos/4655): physical, intellectual or moral darkness2Co 4:6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Eph 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light

*marvelous (thaumastos/2298): wonderful, worthy of pious admiration, admirable, passing human comprehension, that which causes one to marvel

*light (phos/5457): physical light, of spiritual truths

The last part of verse 9 describes the responsibility of those who are God's new race, priesthood, nation and people. We should proclaim the excellencies of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once we were groping in the darkness of sin and shame. By a stupendous deliverance we have been transferred into the kingdom of His dear Son. The light is as clear and brilliant as the darkness was oppressive. How we should shout the praises of the One who did all this for us! (BBC)

1Pe 2:10 who once [were] not a people but [are] now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.

*people (laos/2992): people all of the same stock and language, nationAll believers, as a result of the new birth, are of the same spiritual nature, lineage, and nationality and have the potential to speak the same language.

*mercy (eleeo/1653): to help one who is afflicted, to bring help to the wretched, to have compassion on

It is in the passive voice indicating that we are the recipients of God’s mercy.

No one should conclude from this passage in Peter that because the church is now God's people, He is through with Israel as a nation. Neither should one assume that the church is now the Israel of God, or that the promises made to Israel now apply to the church. Israel and the church are separate and distinct entities, and an understanding of this distinction is one of the most important keys to interpreting the prophetic word.Israel was God's chosen earthly people from the time of the call of Abraham to the coming of the Messiah. The nation's rebellion and faithlessness reached its awesome climax when Christ was nailed to the cross. Because of this crowning sin, God temporarily set aside Israel as His chosen people. They are His ancient earthly people today but not His chosen people.During the present age, God has a new people—the church. This Church Age forms a parenthesis in God's dealings with Israel. When the parenthesis is closed, that is, when the church is caught away to heaven, God will resume His dealings with Israel. Then a believing portion of the nation will become God's people again. (BBC)

The Warfare of the Pilgrim1Pe 2:11 Beloved, I beg [you] as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,

*beg (parakaleo/3870): to call alongside of, to exhort, admonish, to encourage and strengthen

Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

*sojourners (paroikos/3941): a foreigner who lives in a place without the right of citizenship, temporary resident, one who lives on earth as a stranger, a sojourner on the earth, someone who did not enjoy rights usually possessed by residents

-para (3844): alongside of-oikos (3624): dwellingAct 7:6 But God spoke in this way: that his descendants would dwell in a foreign land, and that they would bring them into bondage and oppress them four hundred years. Eph 2:19 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God,

Also used in the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament):*Of Abraham to describe himself:Gen 23:4 "I am a foreigner and a visitor among you. Give me property for a burial place among you, that I may bury my dead out of my sight."

*Of David to describe himself and Israel:1Ch 29:15 For we are aliens and pilgrims before You, As were all our fathers; Our days on earth are as a shadow, And without hope.

Psa 39:12 "Hear my prayer, O LORD, And give ear to my cry; Do not be silent at my tears; For I am a stranger with You, A sojourner, as all my fathers were.

Hebrew (toshab/H8453): a dweller (but not outlandish, H5237); especially (as distinguished from a native citizen (active participle of H3427) and a temporary

inmate, H1616, or mere lodger, H3885) resident alien: - foreigner-inhabitant, sojourner, stranger.

*pilgrims (parepidemos/3927): one who comes from a foreign to reside next to the natives, one who resides in a country that is not his own; also known as exiles, temporary residents, those away from their homes, those temporarily residing abroad; one who makes a brief stay in a strange or foreign place, who sojourns or who resides temporarily among a native people to whom he or she does not belong; they did not expect to be regarded as a native of the place they resided.

-see also 1 Peter 1:3

Heb 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

The hymns of yesterday remind us of our pilgrimage. For instance:Called from above, and heavenly men by birth(Who once were but the citizens of earth),As pilgrims here, we seek a heav'nly home,Our portion in the ages yet to come.We are but strangers here, we do not craveA home on earth, which gave Thee but a grave:Thy cross has severed ties which bound us here,Thyself our treasure in a brighter sphere.—James G. Deck

Also used in the Septuagint (Greek Old Testament):Gen 23:4 "I am a foreigner and a visitor among you. Give me property for a burial place among you, that I may bury my dead out of my sight." . 1Ch 29:15 For we are aliens and pilgrims before You, As were all our fathers; Our days on earth are as a shadow, And without hope. Psa 39:12 "Hear my prayer, O LORD, And give ear to my cry; Do not be silent at my tears; For I am a stranger with You, A sojourner, as all my fathers were. Psa 119:19 I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments

from me.

Hebrew (gare/H1616): From H1481; properly a guest; by implication a foreigner: - alien, sojourner, stranger.

A parepidēmos was a person who was staying there temporarily and who had his permanent home somewhere else. Sometimes his stay was strictly limited. A parepidēmos was a man in lodgings, a man without a home in the place where life had sent him. All their lives the patriarchs were men who had no settled place that they could call home. It is to be

noted that to dwell in a foreign land was a humiliating thing in ancient days; to the foreigner in any country a certain stigma attached. In the Letter of Aristeas the writer says: “It is a fine thing to live and to die in one’s native land; a foreign land brings contempt to poor men and shame to rich men, for there is the lurking suspicion that they have been exiled for the evil they have done.” (Barclay, W: The Daily Study Bible Series. The Westminster Press)

Abraham and Lot: A ContrastIn Abraham and Lot we see a contrast of two believers. In Abraham,

Hebrews 11:13describes him as a stranger and a pilgrim; and in Genesis 23:4 he describes himself as a foreigner and a visitor as he seeks land to purchase to bury Sarah. In Lot, we see just the opposite. In Genesis 13, we see Lot’s downward progression away from the life of a pilgrim as he chooses to pitch his tent toward Sodom and Gomorrah: he saw (13:10), he chose (13:11), he pitched his tent. 2 Peter 2:7-8 states that he was dwelling (egkatoikeo/1460: dwelling in or among) among the wicked, tormenting his soul.

*abstain (apechomai/567): to hold one’s self off, restrain, to put some distance between

-present middle infinitive (continuously restrain yourself)-apo (575): preposition indicating separation, away from-echo (2192): to have, to holdAct 15:19 Therefore I judge that we should not trouble those from among the Gentiles who are turning to God, Act 15:20 but that we write to them to abstain from things polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from things strangled, and from blood. 1Th 4:3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality; 1Th 4:4 that each of you should know how to possess his own vessel in

sanctification and honor, 1Th 5:22 Abstain from every form of evil.

*fleshly (sarkikos/4559): carnal, having nature of the flesh, under the control of the animal appetites in contrast to the Spirit of God, sensual

Rom 7:14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.

1Co 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ. 1Co 3:2 I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; 1Co 3:3 for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? 1Co 3:4 For when one says, "I am of Paul," and another, "I am of Apollos,"

are you not carnal?

*lusts (epithumia/1939): desire (good or bad), craving, longing, desire for what is forbidden

Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, Tit 2:12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, Jas 1:14 But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires

and enticed.

1Pe 4:1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 1Pe 4:2 that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. 1Pe 4:3 For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. 2Pe 1:2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and

of Jesus our Lord, 2Pe 1:3 as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, 2Pe 1:4 by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

*war (strateuo/4754): to lead on a military expedition, to lead soldiers into war, to make war

-present middle indicative (continuous struggle against ourselves)2Ti 2:4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. Jas 4:1 Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?

A good illustration is that of ships in a harbor constantly bombarding a fortress.

*soul (psuche/5950): the seat of affections, desires, perceptions, thoughts, will and purpose; self

The Testimony of the Pilgrim (Doing good in suffering)1Pe 2:12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by [your] good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.

*having (echo/2192): to hold, to have, to possess-present active participle (continually having your conduct honorable)

*conduct (anastrophe/391): manner of life, behavior*honorable (kalos/2570): beautiful to look at, precious, admirable, excellent in its nature and characteristics, genuine, praiseworthy, possessing moral excellence, good, praiseworthy*speak against (katalaleo/2635): speak against, to criminate, to slander

1Pe 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 1Pe 3:16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.

*good (kalos/2570): beautiful to look at, precious, admirable, excellent in its nature and characteristics, genuine, praiseworthy, possessing moral excellence, good, praiseworthy*observe (epopteuo/2029): to look upon, to view attentively, to watch, to be an

eyewitness, to inspect1Pe 3:1 Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, 1Pe 3:2 when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.

*visitation (episkope/1984): investigation, inspection, that act by which God looks into and searches out the ways, deeds character, of men, in order to adjudge them their lot accordingly, whether joyous or sad

There are two lines of interpretation as to what the ‘day of visitation’ means. It can either refer to a visitation by God in terms of judgment or in terms of mercy. The verb form of this word (episkeptomai/1980) has the meaning of “to look, inspect, to see someone in order to see how they are doing (as in visiting a sick friend), to look upon to help or benefit” (see Matt. 25:36). It is also used to refer to God visiting those in terms of salvation (see. Luke 1:68; Acts 15:14). Therefore, I believe the interpretation is that ‘visitation’ is the time when the Gentiles, behold your suffering, respond to the gospel and God visits them with grace, and they glorify God as a result of beholding your testimony during times of suffering.

The Submission of the Pilgrim to man’s authority for the glory of the Lord

1Pe 2:13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme,

*submit (hupotasso/5293): to arrange under, to yield to, to obey, to subordinate-aorist active imperative (once for all command)1) Believers to the government

Rom 13:1 Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Rom 13:2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.

2) Believers submitting to each otherEph 5:21 submitting to one another in the fear of God.

3) Wives submitting to their husbandsEph 5:22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. Eph 5:23 For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.

4) Servants to their mastersTit 2:9 Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, Tit 2:10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

*ordinance (ktisis/2937): institution*for (dia/1223): in the accusative case emphasizes the reason something is done; because of, on account of*the Lord’s sake: the reason for the believer’s submission to man’s authority. Even as pilgrims, we are called to submit to the authority over us in order to bring glory to the Lord.

Whatever the source of the suffering, the answer is not for us to rise up and exert our rights, but to trust ourselves to the care and the faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

The ultimate Christian answer to persecution, detractors and critics is that of a blameless life, conduct beyond reproach and good citizenship. In particular ... submission is a supremely Christlike virtue. (BBC)

1Pe 2:14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and [for the] praise of those who do good.

*governors (hegemon/2232): leaders of any kind, ruler*good (agathopoios/17): virtuous

The injunction of obedience applies to subordinate officials such as governors. They are authorized by God to punish offenders and to praise those who keep the law. (BBC)

1Pe 2:15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men—

*will (thelema/2307): will, desire, pleasure*good (agathapoieo/15): to do something that benefits others, to do well, to do

right-present tense (continuous action, we are to be continuously doing good)1Pe 2:20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than

for doing evil.

*put to silence (phimoo/5392): to muzzle, to make speechless*ignorance (agnosia/56): lack of understanding*foolish (aphron/878): without reason or intelligence, acting rashly

The best way to silence those who are persecuting you is to live out a life of godliness and good works.

1Pe 2:16 as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God.*free (eleutheros/1658): free, exempt, one who is not a slave

Act as free men. We are not in bondage or slavery to civil authorities. We need not live in servility or terror. After all, we are the Lord's free men. But that does not mean we are free to sin. Liberty does not mean license. Freedom does not include lawlessness. So we must never use our freedom as a pretext for evil. Sinful disobedience should never be justified by some pseudo spiritual excuse. (BBC)

*using (echo/2192): having, possessing, holding on to *liberty (eleutheria/1657): liberty to do or omit things not having to do with salvation; living as we should not please ourselves

Gal 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.Gal 5:13 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Jas 1:25 But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

*cloak (epikalumma/1942): veil, pretext, a means of hiding*vice (kakia/2549): depravity

1Pe 2:1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,

Jas 1:21 Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

*bondservants (doulos/1401): slave, one who gives himself up to another’s will, one who is devoted to another to the disregard of one’s own interests.

In the Greek culture doulos usually referred to the involuntary, permanent service of a slave, but the use in the epistles of Paul and Peter elevates the meaning of doulos to the Hebrew sense which describes a servant who willingly commits himself to serve a master he loves and respects (cp Ex 21:5, 6 Dt 15:12-16 discussed below). By Roman times, slavery was so extensive that in the early Christian period one out of every two people was a slave!

Kenneth Wuest explains that a doulos as"the most abject, servile term used by the Greeks to denote a slave. The word designated one who was born as a slave, one who was bound to his master in chords so strong that only death could break them, one who served his master to the disregard of his own interests, one whose will was swallowed up in the will of his master. Paul was born a slave of sin at his physical birth, and a bondslave of his Lord through regeneration

A doulos:Was owned by and totally possessed by his master. Existed for his master and no other reason. Had no personal rights. Was at the master’s disposal "24/7". Had no will of his own but was completely subservient to the master.

Paradoxically a bondservant of the Most High God is one of the most privileged, noblest professions in the world.

1Pe 2:17 Honor all [people]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.*honor (timao/5091): to revere

-aorist active imperative (once for all command)*love (agapao/25): to love the object loved not because the object is worthy of it.

Christian love, whether exercised toward the brethren, or toward men generally, is not an impulse from the feelings, it does not always run with the natural inclinations, nor does it spend itself only upon those for whom some affinity is discovered. Vines’-present active imperative (a command to continuously love the brethren)

*brotherhood (adelphotes/81): family of brothers-1 Pet 5:9

*fear (phobeo/5399): to be afraid, to have reverence for-present middle imperative (a command to be continuously having reverence for God for our benefit)

*honor (timao/5091): to revere-present active imperative (a command to continuously honor the king)

Notice the four imperative statements (commands) in this sentence. All of these qualities reflect the attitude of submission that the believer is to have even during times of suffering.

-Honor all (even those who are causing you to suffer, remembering that Christ died for them)

-Love the brethren continuously-Have continuous reverence for the Father which will be a benefit to you-Honor the king (even those who persecute truth)

Generally speaking, the Christian can live under any form of government. The only time he should disobey is when he is ordered to compromise his loyalty or obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. (BBC)

1Pe 2:18 Servants, [be] submissive to [your] masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh.

*servants (oiketes/3610): household servants, a domestic*submissive (hupotasso/5293): to arrange under, to subordinate

-present passive participle*fear (phobos/5401): reverence, terror*good (agathos/18): good, beneficial*gentle (epieikes/1933): fair, equitable, mild*harsh (skolios/4646): crooked, perverse, wicked, unfair, surly

This passage is addressed to domestic servants, but the principles apply to employees of any kind. The basic appeal is to submit to the master with all respect. It is a built-in fact of life that in any society or organization, there must be authority on the one hand, and obedience to that authority on the other. It is for any servant's own good to submit to his master, otherwise he would not have employment. But it is much more important for a Christian to submit. More than his paycheck is involved; his testimony depends on it.Obedience should not vary according to the temperament of the employer. Anyone can submit to an employer who is good and gentle. Believers are called to go beyond that and be respectful and obedient to the harsh, overbearing boss. This stands out as distinctly Christian behavior. (BBC)

One’s Christianity does not give the right to rebel against one’s superior in the social structure no matter how unfair or harsh he may be. A Christian employee may be wronged by an unbelieving coworker or supervisor. For conscience’ sake, he must “take it” even though he is not in the wrong. A Christian’s relationship to God is far more important than his relationship to men. Remember Jesus' admonition & encouragement (Jn 16:33). (PA)

1Pe 2:19 For this [is] commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully.

*commendable (charis/5485): thankworthy, grace, of a benefit, delight“referring to an action that is beyond the ordinary course of what might be

expected” (Wuest)*conscience (suneidesis/4893): co-knowing; a knowing together with*endures (hupophero/5297): to bear by being under, to bear patiently, to undergo hardship, to get under a heavy load and carry it

-present active indicative (continuous endurance)1Co 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what

you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. 2Ti 3:10 But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, 2Ti 3:11 persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me.

*grief (lupe/3077): sorrow, pain, affliction, heaviness; physical, mental or spiritual pain

Rom 9:1 I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, Rom 9:2 that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. Heb 12:11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

*suffering (pascho/3958): to be affected for good or bad, to endure evil, to be vexed

-present active participle (continuous suffering)-12x in 1 PeterChrist suffering for us1Pe 2:21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 1Pe 2:23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; 1Pe 3:18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, 1Pe 4:1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,

Our suffering as believers

1Pe 2:20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 1Pe 2:21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 1Pe 3:14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "AND DO NOT BE AFRAID OF THEIR THREATS, NOR BE TROUBLED." 1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good

than for doing evil.

1Pe 4:1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 1Pe 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters. 1Pe 4:19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator. 1Pe 5:10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

*wrongfully (adikos/95): unjustly, without fault, undeservedly

1Pe 2:20 For what credit [is it] if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this [is] commendable before God.

*credit (kleos/2811): glory, praise*beaten (kolaphizo/2852): to strike with the fist, to mistreat

Mar 14:65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands. 1Co 4:10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! 1Co 4:11 To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless.

This whole passage, 1Pe_2:19-24, bears the mark of Peter's memories of the scene of Christ's last sufferings (see Introduction) - the blows of the servants, the scorn of the high-priest, the silent submission of Jesus, the cross, the stripes. (Vincent)

*faults (hamartano/264): sinning*patiently (hupomeno/5278): to remain under, to patiently endure, to not recede

or flee

There is no benefit if we suffer for sins that we have committed, even if we endure the suffering. It’s not just a matter of enduring; we need to be enduring for the right reason, for doing His will.

*good (agathapoieo/15): to do something that benefits others1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good

than for doing evil. *suffering (pascho/3958): to be affected for good or bad, to endure evil, to be

vexed*commendable (charis/5485): thankworthy, grace, of a benefit, delight

“referring to an action that is beyond the ordinary course of what might be expected” (Wuest)

There is no virtue in patient suffering for our own misdeeds. Certainly there is no glory for God in it. Such suffering will never mark us out as Christians, or make others want to become Christians. But suffering patiently for well-doing is the thing that counts. It is so unnatural, so other-worldly that it shocks people into conviction of sin and, hopefully, into salvation. (BBC)

The Example of Christ for the Pilgrim in Suffering and Submission1Pe 2:21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:

*to this: the previous verse, we are to do good (be a benefit) and suffer while remaining under

*called (kaleo/2564): to invite, to summon-3rd of Peter’s callings for the believer (see 1:15, 2:9, 3:9; 5:10)

*suffered (pascho/3958): to be affected for good or bad, to endure evil, to be vexed

-aorist active indicative (point action in past time; He is not suffering for us now)

Mat 16:21 From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Luk 24:25 Then He said to them, "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Luk 24:26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter

into His glory?"

Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.

Act 17:1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. Act 17:2 Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, Act 17:3 explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to you is the Christ."

Php 1:29 For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,

Every word here is significant. Suffering is a gift of grace. “It is given” should be “it was given,” referring to the gift bestowed when they became Christians. Suffering was the marriage-gift when they were espoused to Christ: the bounty when they enlisted in His service. Becoming one with Him they entered into the fellowship of His suffering (Phi_3:10). The gift was not suffering as such. Its meaning and value lay in its being for His sake. The Macedonian churches, and the Philippian church especially, were preeminently suffering churches. See 2Co_8:2. (Vincent)

1Pe 2:23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;

1Pe 3:14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. "AND DO NOT BE AFRAID OF THEIR THREATS, NOR BE TROUBLED." 1Pe 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 1Pe 3:16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. 1Pe 3:17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than

for doing evil.

1Pe 4:1 Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind, for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,

1Pe 4:12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 1Pe 4:13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

1Pe 4:19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

1Pe 5:10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.

*for (huper/5228): in behalf of, for the sake of (Christ’s substitutionary death)-1 Peter 3:18; 4:1

*leaving (hupolimpano/5277): to leave behind*example (hupogrammos/5261): a writing copy given to beginners to aid them in learning to draw; template

There is no other template for the believer to imitate than the one that is presented here; that of suffering first, then the glory.*follow (epakoloutheo/1872): to tread in one’s footsteps, to imitate an example

It is more than just following in Christ’s footsteps. It is Christ Himself living out His life through the believer in every step that he takes. And it is suffering that is the catalyst that will allow that to happen. It is the crushing of the myrrh that brings out the fragrance.

1Pe 2:22 "Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth";*commited (poieo/4160): to make, produce, do

-aorist active indicative (an historical event)*sin (hamartia/266): to miss the mark, sin

2Co 5:21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Heb 4:15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 1Jn 3:5 And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in

Him there is no sin. *deceit (dolos/1388): to bait, snare, craft, guile

1Pe 2:1 Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking,

1Pe 3:10 For "HE WHO WOULD LOVE LIFE AND SEE GOOD DAYS, LET HIM REFRAIN HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL, AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT.

*found (heurisko/2147): to find by enquiry, thought, scrutiny, examination, observation

*Isaiah 53:9Isa 53:9 And they made His grave with the wicked— But with the rich at His death, Because He had done no violence, Nor was any deceit in His mouth.

1Pe 2:23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed [Himself] to Him who judges righteously;

*reviled (loidoreo/3058): to reproach, to rail at, to heap abuse upon*suffered (pascho/3958): see verse 2:21*threaten (apeileo/546): menace

*committed (paradidomi/3860): lit. to give along side of, to give into another’s hands, to deliver to someone to keep or take care of

Mat 26:39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, "O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will." Mat 26:40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, "What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? Mat 26:41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Mat 26:42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, "O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done."

*judges (krino/2919): to separate, to approve, to pronounce an opinion concerning right and wrong

*righteously (dikaios/1346): properly, with strict justice, proper, as it is right

Mat 27:11 Now Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor asked Him, saying, "Are You the King of the Jews?" Jesus said to him, "It is as you say." Mat 27:12 And while He was being accused by the chief priests and elders, He

answered nothing. Mat 27:13 Then Pilate said to Him, "Do You not hear how many things they

testify against You?" Mat 27:14 But He answered him not one word, so that the governor marveled

greatly.

1Pe 2:24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness--by whose stripes you were healed.

*Himself: intensifies “who” (Christ). It was Christ Himself, and no one else, that bore our sins

*bore (anaphero/399): to bring up to an altar-aorist active indicative (historical event)

Heb 7:26 For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; Heb 7:27 who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins and then for the people's, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. Heb 9:28 so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.

Isa 53:11 He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many, For He shall bear their iniquities. Isa 53:12 Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death,

And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.

*our sins: what He carried in His body*in His own body on the tree: where He carried them

Act 5:29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: "We ought to obey God rather than men. Act 5:30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by

hanging on a tree. Act 5:31 Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. Gal 3:13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE"),

*that (hina/2443): purpose, is tied to the subjunctive mood in the verb “live”*having died (apoginomai/581): lit. to be away from, to be removed from, to

depart -apo: separation-aorist (action seen as an event, not continuous)

“It speaks of the action of God in breaking the power of the sinful nature in the sinner when he puts his faith in the Lord Jesus as Savior. Henceforth, he need not be a slave to sin.” (Wuest)

*to sins: what we have been removed from*might live (zao/2198): to enjoy true life

Gal 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, Tit 2:12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,

*righteousness (dikaiosune/1343): of that which is right, the condition acceptable to God

*healed (iaomai/2390): to cure, to make whole-the context is sins, not physical health-aorist passive indicative (event in past time)

1Pe 2:25 For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

*were (eimi/1516): to be-imperfect active indicative (continuous action in past time)

*going astray (plano/4105): to be led astray, to wander, to roam, to be led away from truth

-present passive participle (are bring led astray, are being deceived)

i.e., as commonly understood, ye were like straying sheep. But the ye were should be construed with the participle going astray, the verb and the participle together denoting habitual action or condition. (Vincent’s Word Studies)

The combination of the imperfect tense of “were” and the present participle of “astray” together emphasize the continuous condition these believers were in. But now, at a point in time, they have returned to the Great Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

*now (nun/3568): at this time*returned (epistrepho/1994): to turn one’s self to

-aorist passive indicative (historical point in time) *Shepherd (poimen/4166): one whose task is the feeding, caring for and

protecting of the sheepJoh 10:11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for

the sheep.Heb 13:20 Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant,

*Overseer (episkopos/1385): bishop, man charged with the duty of seeing that things are done right

As Christ is the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), He also is the Chief Bishop overseeing His Church.

I’m a Pilgrim (Maxwell)

I’m a pilgrim and a stranger,Rough and thorny is the road,Often in the midst of danger,

But it leads to God.Clouds of darkness oft distress me;

Great and many are my foes;Anxious cares and thoughts oppress me;

But my Father knows.

Oh, how sweet is this assurance,’Midst the conflict and the strife,

Although sorrows past enduranceFollow me through life.

Home in prospect can still cheer me:Yes, and give me sweet repose,

While I feel His presence near me,For my Father knows.

Yes, He sees and knows me daily,Watches over me in love;

Sends me help when foes assail me,Bids me look above.

Soon my journey shall be ended,Life is drawing to a close;

I shall then be well attended—This my Father knows.

I shall then with joy behold Him;Face to face my Savior see;

Fall with rapture, and adore HimFor His love to me.

Nothing more shall then distress me—In the land of sweet repose:

Jesus stands engaged to bless me—This my Father knows.