I love studying Peter because he starts off with something dear to my heart - the fact that believers are aliens.
Yes, it's true. We are pilgrims in this world on a journey Home.
We are not to look like world-dwellers. If we are living a life pleasing to God, we can't fit in, no matter how hard we try.
And why would we want to?
I'd like to point out two things about this one simple verse:
- Peter introduced himself simply as an apostle (sent one) of Jesus Christ. He didn't explain or justify his position. He could have said he was the most influential leader in the early church. He could have said that Jesus spoke to him in the Gospels more than any other person. He just said he was an apostle.
- He addressed his letter to the temporary residents (or pilgrims or strangers, depending on the bible translation you are using) of the dispersion. Both Jewish and Gentile Christians left Jerusalem when Judah was conquered by Babylon and had scattered.
A temporary resident realizes that this is not his or her home. This is not the final destination. Why should we expend such effort to build a kingdom here when eternity will find us living in a much much better place? In light of this fact, how should we be spending our time?
Don't get to feeling settled here. Why? Because you were chosen for something else!
Come back next week to discuss what that might be.
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It is a good reminder to remember that we are just temporarily here. Sometimes I can get so wrapped up in the things of the world that I forget this is not where I will eternally live :)
ReplyDeletebetty
Jerralea, I'm so glad you're continuing with another Bible study. I love that they are simple and take just a few moments. It's been a nice introduction for me to books I'm not familiar with.
ReplyDeletewonderful, thanks.
ReplyDeleteJerralea, I so much appreciate your commitment to God's Word, and the way you faithfully share what He is teaching you. May He grant us more grace to keep our affections set on things above, storing up treasures in heaven, and preparing for our wonderful eternal home. Thank you for being such an important part of our community at Grace & Truth!
ReplyDeleteThat is hard to do sometimes. When things are so frustrating. When things aren't working out the way I hoped they would. I do need to remember this isn't home and we weren't created to spend our lives without struggle. The best part is knowing that there is so much we don't know -- so much good out of the bad. And knowing God is the one -- forever and ever.
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