The True Grace of God

 

The short but powerful book of I Peter has numerous themes.  The life and duty of the Christian is portrayed in the face of suffering and persecution.  There is glory, hope, and courage offered by Jesus Christ as we follow “in his steps” (I Peter 2:21).

 

Most of all, this wonderful book is about the grace of God which is offered in Christ.  Peter starts the letter with the greeting (in chapter 1, verse 2) “Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”       It is grace that we need most and it is grace that is lavishly offered as we love God.  Peter describes the Lord in chapter 5, verse 10 as the “God of all grace who called you to His eternal glory in Christ.”  We find our greatest need met in the God of all Grace.

 

Remember that grace is favor with and from God.  It is His mercy and love which we do not deserve and cannot earn, but must simply receive.  It’s interesting that the two New Testament books we are reading this summer, James and I Peter, quote the same Old Testament scripture:  “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

 (Proverbs 3:34).

 

Knowing that we are loved by God helps us live the life of grace.  We go easy on others, forgiving them.  We seek forgiveness from God and others.  We surrender ourselves and our agenda to God.  Peter concludes his letter stating his purpose in writing in chapter 5 verse 12,  “I have written to you briefly encouraging you and testifying that this is the true grace of God.  Stand fast in it” 

 

My the Lord bless you with His true grace as you are a reader and “do-er” of His Word!

 

Your brother in Christ,

Christopher

The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton

Rector