1 Peter 5:12-14 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Peter had help in writing this letter that has engaged us these past few weeks. The authority Peter had as an apostle in the church was a marvelous gift from Christ, but he was not alone in giving us these words. After all, we in the church are never alone. It is likely that Peter dictated the letter while Silvanus wrote the words. The church in Rome (“she who is at Babylon….”) sent greetings to remind Peter’s readers that they are a part of a larger body which battles and prays alongside of them. Finally, Peter’s dear friend Mark (the author of the Gospel?) sent his love.

Peter was not alone in writing this letter. But, He had one more companion (if He can be called that) who breathed these words out through Silvanus’ pen. That is the Lord Himself! This Lord who was with Peter and his companions in writing this letter, is with His church even today. He does not leave us alone!

Consider how He makes Himself present with us: Peter has exhorted and declared to us God’s Word in this letter, which means that God is speaking to His church through it. He who suffered for the sake of the church comes to her in her trials. He who offered Himself as a bloody sacrifice for our sins comes to give us His body and blood for our forgiveness in the Sacrament. He who is risen from the dead comes to promise us resurrection in our baptisms. He who lives and reigns to show us mercy speaks His Word into our ears and hearts whenever we hear it proclaimed. He is with us. He will never forsake us. Such comfort leads Peter to close his letter by saying, “Peace to all of you who are in Christ.” AMEN!

Father, you never forsake your church. Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to unite us to Christ and your church. By the work of your Spirit and Son in the Word and sacraments, keep us faithful to the end. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 5:10-11 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Read John 20:1-17. Imagine for a moment that you are Mary Magdalene. It is Easter morning and you are walking out of the empty tomb. You are devastated. Not only have you witnessed the greatest injustice in the history of humanity, the brutal crucifixion of your friend Jesus, but now someone has stolen His body. At this moment you have lost all hope. Thoughts of agonizing crosses and wicked grave robbers fill your thoughts. There is nothing right in the world.

But then a kindly and, somehow, familiar gardener walks over to offer consolation. You mumble something about returning the body if he has taken it, and feel almost sorry for insulting him. But, just as you are about to apologize, He speaks your name, “Mary!” And you can’t contain yourself because the grave couldn’t contain Him! It is Jesus! It is the Lord! He is risen! Alleluia!

In that moment, everything changed for Mary. All the evil and the injustice were gone from her mind. All that was so terribly wrong was made right again. There in that graveyard, death was being reversed. She was with the ever-living Jesus.

Today in these verses, the Lord promises to make us a part of that story. We too will see the risen Jesus and all will be made right. When Christ returns, all the injustices, tragedies, sorrows, diseases, corruptions, and deceptions will be undone. Christ will raise up His church in His eternal glory! So, while we may feel like Mary just before she saw Jesus, Easter is at hand! “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). So, we pray, “Come Lord Jesus!”

Father, we praise you for raising Christ from the dead. We wait with great anticipation to sing and rejoice with Mary when we see Him at the resurrection. Let Him return soon, we pray. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 5:7-9 ...casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

Christians throughout the world are suffering for their faith. We praise God that we do not face violent persecution in our country. But, we must recognize that the devil has raised all kinds of evil against our brothers and sisters throughout the world. Our fellow citizens in the kingdom of God suffer for their faith. Because of this, we suffer as a church together. “If one member suffers, all suffer together” (I Corinthians 12:26).

What can we do for our fellow members of Christ’s body while they suffer so far away? The devil would have us think that we are incapable of helping. The devil would have us think that God will not help. The devil would have us give up. But, God would have us pray. The devil wants to devour us by removing our hope. But, God cares for us and calls for our prayers for the sake of the church. He promises to answer.

We may feel that we can do nothing for our brothers and sisters who suffer. But, God can. He has promised to hear our prayers and to answer them. Thus, prayer is no small way of helping. In fact, though supporting missionaries and going on trips to aid those who hurt is of inestimable value, prayer accomplishes more than we can hope or imagine. God will ultimately grant relief and resurrection to those who suffer. He will make all things right.

So, when others suffer, we pray. If the Lord sees fit to allow us to suffer with our brothers and sisters, we pray. In the midst of our sufferings, they will pray for us. Most importantly, God listens to all of it and answers for us.

Father, grant your Holy Spirit to those who suffer for the sake of your Son Jesus. Strengthen their faith through their trials and raise them with Christ forever. If we are to face such trials, keep us ever faithful in your Son, who suffered for us. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 5:5-6 Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,

Recently, a number of high profile speakers, after agreeing to give commencement speeches at college graduations, later refused to speak. The problem? The students at these universities demanded that these speakers make apologies for stances they had made in the past. The sheer pride of these students drove away the wisdom of some very intelligent people.

Now, we can sit here all day and bemoan the entitlement of today’s youth. But, we must remember that these are the kids of the generation that sang with the Who, “I hope I die before I get old.” Our entire culture puts being young on such a pedestal that we should not be surprised with the youth begin to think they ought to be in charge.

The exaltation of youth produces a lack of humility that is destructive to a culture. According to the Bible, it is the children who are to honor their fathers and mothers, not the other way around. The church, it seems, must lead the way in recovering the truth that with age comes wisdom.

One of the great honors of growing older is to be the vessel through which God hands wisdom on to the next generation. “Hear, O sons, a father’s instruction, and be attentive, that you may gain insight” (Proverbs 4:1). It is through our elders that we learn about the dangers of breaking God’s laws and the marvel of receiving His mercy. What a shame it would be if an entire generation was too proud to hear that and if an entire generation was too proud to pass it on.
Father, forgive us for glorifying youth. Teach us, rather, to love the youth. And, teach the youth to honor and respect their elders. May we gain great wisdom from those whom you have granted it to. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 5:1-4 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.

Read John 10:1-30. Jesus is our chief Shepherd, and we are His sheep. He has laid down His life for His sheep. To be a sheep of the Good Shepherd, one need only hear His voice and follow it. Many will come and try to sound like the Shepherd in an effort to steal the sheep away for slaughter. But, the good Shepherd guards His sheep, He will not lose them.

When our Good Shepherd ascended into heaven to begin His reign, He gave His flock under-shepherds to tend His flock (Ephesians 4:7-16). In the stead and by the command of the chief Shepherd, these men (called “elders” by Peter, we call them pastors) are to shepherd Christ’s flock by speaking His Word to them. They do not come on their own, seeking gain, and looking to make a name for themselves. They are to simply proclaim God’s Word. When the sheep stray into sin, they are to call them to repentance. When the sheep are lost and scared, they are to comfort give out God’s mercy. When wolves come to draw the sheep away, they are to stand firm, proclaiming the Word of the chief Shepherd all the more boldly. These under-shepherds should have no agenda of their own. They are simply come in the stead of Jesus to do what He has commanded.

Be warned of pastors with personal agendas, these may be wolves. Pray for your pastor to faithfully carry out the duties Christ has called him to. Finally, listen for the voice of your dear Shepherd, and pray for someone to proclaim it faithfully.

Father, we thank you for giving us your Son to shepherd us. We pray that our pastor would be a faithful servant who boldly proclaims Christ’s Word to us. Help us to faithfully listen. AMEN

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 4:17-19 For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And "If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?" Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.

Wait a second! What is Peter getting at today? Judgment on the household of God? But haven’t my sins already been judged on the cross? Didn’t Jesus take those away? Weren’t they washed away in my baptism? What is there for me to be judged for? I thought I was free from that! What gives?

We don’t like being judged. And yet, in some sense we need it. Though Jesus has paid for all of our sins and has been judged for them, and though the promise of eternal life is ours because of His cross, we still sin. We are free from the dominion of sin, but we still sin daily in thought, word, and deed. Our sin is still judged sinful even after we are saved. This drives us to our knees in repentance and prepares our hearts, once again, to hear and cling to God’s mighty absolution.

To receive this kind of judgment by God’s Word, though at times painful, is a marvelous gift. We learn to trust God as He continues to judge as sinful all that keeps us from Him. Our sin is suffocating us, and God’s Word exposes the problem and His absolving Word breathes new life into us!

Though it is a problem for Christians to sin, we know the forgiveness that is promised, and are set free to repent. The real danger lies with those who see no need for absolution; who do not “obey the gospel of God.” For those who deny God’s judgment on their sin, there is no hope of absolution. Thus, let us pray that we would ever do good, repenting of our sins and loving our neighbors.

Father, teach me to deny myself and trust your judgments on my sin as true. Kill my sinful nature and raise me to a new life every day. Thank you for your Son’s absolving blood, shed for me. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 4:12-16 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.

As we have seen again and again in Peter’s letter, suffering should come as no surprise to the Christian. It was a part of everyday life for the first Christians. Even Martin Luther says in the Large Catechism, “where God’s Word is preached, accepted, or believed, and bears fruit, there the holy and precious cross will also not be far behind.” This is hard to hear, after all, who wants to suffer a fiery trial?

Yet, Peter calls us to rejoice! He reminds us of what Jesus taught in the great Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11-12). Following Christ will come with a cross, but rejoice, for your reward is in heaven. No matter how awful it is here, it will be infinitely better when Christ returns and raises you to a new life!

The good guys always have enemies. The bad guys are against you because you belong to Jesus, the only Good Guy. He has loved you and made you His own, though you are born sinful and unclean, that is, as one of the bad guys. But, He has saved you from that place of darkness. Rejoice! The attacks you receive are not from God, but His enemies. He is for you, for you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s (I Corinthians 3:23)!

Father, despite my sin, you have made me your own. This means the world despises and disowns me, just as they did your Son. So, I pray for you to strengthen me with the promise that you will raise me like you raised Him. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 4:7-11 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies- in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

We can view our lives in one of two ways. Either we can view our lives as our possession or we can view our lives as a gift from God. If we view our lives in the first way, we will live our lives focused on our own well-being. Our jobs, family members, friends, even God will be viewed as a means to an end: my happiness. If I am not happy, then I will need to manipulate or remove those people who stand in my way. The irony here is that seeking such happiness makes us miserable.

But things change if we view our lives as a gift from God. The reality is that we don’t exist for our own sakes. Your very existence in this world is an act of God’s grace! All we have and are come from God purely out of “fatherly, divine mercy and goodness” (The Small Catechism). The people He has surrounded you with are not a means to your happiness, but God’s children you are to love. God gives you work, not merely to make money, but so you can help sustain His creation. He has given you talents and abilities, not to show off and gain fame for yourself, but to bless others and glorify His name.

Because you belong to Jesus, the Father is pleased with what you do in this life. As you live as stewards of His varied grace, His smiles are upon you for Christ’s sake! Serving God and others with our lives may not always bring mere happiness, but there will we find true joy!

Father, help me to use the gifts and talents you have given me for your glory and for the sake of my neighbors. Forgive my selfish pursuits. Thank you for creating me and giving me all things. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 4:4-6 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is why the gospel was preached even to those who are dead, that though judged in the flesh the way people are, they might live in the spirit the way God does.

Receiving freedom in the gospel changes you. Jesus’ death for your sins removed God’s wrath from you. The judgment your sins deserved was placed on Jesus. God has no condemnation left for you (Romans 8:1). You are free! Sin does not condemn you any longer, it is forgiven. Nothing in the world can separate you from God’s love in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39). The devil cannot accuse you of being too sinful for God; because the sins he accuses you of have been paid-in-full by Christ’s shed blood. You are free.

But freedom is scary! We wonder: How free am I? Am I free to sin? Can I just go, deny God, and swim in a flood of grace-denying debauchery? Such is the questioning of the old Adam who is not convinced God is truly gracious. Perhaps we can answer the questions with a question: Do you want to do that? After being set free from sin, death, the devil, and judgment, do you really want to return to those old slave drivers? Do you really want to spit in God’s face and abuse His love for you? This is like being told you don’t have to stand in line at Disneyland and saying, “Can’t I just stand waiting all day?” Are you kidding? You’re free from the lines! Jump on the ride!

Now, the world won’t be comfortable with your freedom. They will malign you and slander you. They’ll call you self-righteous and all sorts of other names. They’ll try to force you into the line. God will call them to account for their slander. Pay no attention to them because, good news, you are free!

Father, through your Son’s death you have set me free to be your child. Teach me to live in my freedom. Forgive me when I abuse my freedom. Help me to show others the joy of your salvation. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 4:1-3 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God. The time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.

Yesterday we learned that God put our old, sinful nature to death when He baptized us. Baptism is a one-time event where we are crucified with Christ and raised to a new life (Romans 6:1-11). And, as Peter said, it really does save us (I Peter 4:20). But, what does this actually mean in everyday life? Does this mean I’ll never sin again? Does this mean all of my temptations will go away?

The answer, of course, is “no!” In fact, temptation and sin will be a part of our lives until we die. So, though baptism is a one-time event, it is one we must return to daily in our war with our sinful nature, the world’s temptations, and the attacks of the devil. As the Small Catechism says, “[Baptism] indicates that the Old Adam in us should by daily contrition and repentance be drowned and die with all sins and evil desires, and that a new man should daily arise to live before God in righteousness and purity.”

Though we will still sin, be tempted, and suffer attacks, we do so now from a different position. Before we were baptized into Christ, these things stood over us. But now we are in Christ, and thus, these things are beneath us. They can attack us, but they cannot overcome us! The time for indulging worldly passions is past. Christ, your Savior, is now beside you so that you stand over and against your foes. And when it seems they have the upper hand, return to your baptism and cling to the promises of Jesus for you!

Father, I confess that I continue to struggle with the same old sins even though I believe they are conquered by your Son. Teach me to die daily to my sinful nature and daily raise me up to do your will. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:21-22 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

God loves to use water. As we saw yesterday, though He saved Noah and his family, He used water to drown the sinful creation. God also rescued the Israelites through the Red Sea, and drown their Egyptian pursuers (Exodus 14:1-31). It was at His baptism in the waters of the Jordan where God announced that Jesus was His beloved Son (Mark 1:9-11). And, now, it is through the waters of baptism that Jesus saves you!

As we saw yesterday, children’s books make too light a story of Noah and his Ark. It is a story both of God’s wrath and of God’s mercy. We run into the same trouble with baptism. It is no cute, innocent ceremony where children are dedicated to God for the sake of the grandparents. No, baptism is an all out assault on sinners! In baptism, God doesn’t mean to give us a ceremony where we show how much we love him. No. He means to drown our sinful nature and leave it in the grave. He means raise us to a new life. He means to kill us and make us alive with Christ!

This is why Peter says today baptism is an appeal to God for a good conscience. We cannot come to God and say, “See, we did our part in the ceremony, so we’re covered, right?” No. Our consciences are clean because, in baptism, God united us to Christ in His death and raised us with Him in His resurrection (Romans 6:1-11, Colossians 2:12). It’s no mere bath, but an act of God where He drowns our sinful nature and raises a new person from the dead. So, Peter can promise you today, baptism saves you... through the resurrection of Jesus Christ!

Father, I praise you that I am baptized into your Son Jesus Christ. Help me to daily return to my baptism by drowning my sinful nature. Raise me to live as your child, day by day. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:18-20 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God's patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water.

Every children’s book gets the Noah story wrong. The Ark is turned into a cute zoo where a Santa Clause-looking old man smiles and waves at the young readers. It’s a story full of rainbows and zoo animals. Perhaps more troubling is the description of Noah himself. Not the Santa persona, but rather, to the idea that God saved Noah because he was a good person, or at least, a better person than everyone else. He was not. Noah was a sinner (Genesis 9:20-21).

To be sure, Genesis tells us that Noah was a righteous man (Gen. 6:9). But we must remember, a person is righteous before God, not by being a good person, but because they believe God (Romans 3:28). To say that Noah was righteous means nothing other than God was gracious to Noah (Gen. 6:8), and Noah trusted God to be gracious (Hebrews 11:7). What set Noah apart was faith in the promises of God, not sweet, holy Noah! His faith in God saved Him from God’s watery wrath.

Today Peter reminds us that being righteous is a matter of faith. You and I and Noah are the unrighteous for whom Christ, the Righteous One, died. We can stand before God only because He brings us. In Christ, we are saved from God’s wrath. God sent Jesus to die once for sins so that we would be reconciled to Him without fear of His wrath. Just as God promised Noah that He would save him in the Ark, in order to save us He has promised to shelter us in the blood of Christ. Jesus is the Ark that saves us from the wrath of God. Faith in Jesus alone grants us righteousness.

Father, I thank you for sending your Son Jesus to die for me. Forgive me for trusting myself. Teach me to trust in Him alone for my salvation. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:13-17 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God's will, than for doing evil.

There is great joy that comes from having Christ as our Lord. We have the full assurance of our forgiven sins and the promise of eternal life. God is our Father who smiles upon us and is gracious to us! We want others to know this joy! We want others to worship Christ with us.

There is no harm in zealously proclaiming the mercies of our Lord. However, as we have read again and again, the world does not always get caught up in our zeal. In fact, there will often be resistance. At such times, Peter tells us to be prepared to answer when arguments and accusations are thrown our way. We have joy, but we must be ready to defend that joy before the world.

Peter reminds us of two important things when it comes to being ready: a) you need to prepare yourself for pushback from others and b) there is a right way to be ready. Yes, we must be prepared to explain our faith, but what is more, we must not try to pick a fight! But, we are to talk about Christ with gentleness and respect so that it is the Gospel message itself that gives offense, and not the Christian. After all, it is the Gospel message that saves, and not the Christian.

Father, make me bold to proclaim your Word. Give me the words to say so others may know the joy and salvation you have given to me. Forgive me if I have ever been combative with my faith. Like John the Baptist, I pray you would cause me to decrease so that you would increase. AMEN

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *
Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:8-12 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For "Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

We live our lives in constant pursuit. We pursue victory and success at all costs! And, if my perfect life comes at the expense of others suffering, so be it. The game of life is one we intend to win! So what if I step on the losers as I cross the finish line, they should have trained harder. Anyone who gets in our way must be removed.

This is how the world teaches us to pursue success: win at all costs. Honestly, we such a pursuit just might help us win in life. Living like this just may help us achieve our goals. The problem is, we’ll miss Jesus, because He is spending all His time with the losers.

Jesus is not worried about pursuing glory and success. He is interested in pursuing sinners, forgiving their sins, uniting them in faith, and putting His word of mercy in their ears and mouths. All other pursuits are selfish and lead towards evil and reviling. But Christ calls us, not to overpower the competition, but to bless. We are to repent of our selfish pursuits and pursue peace. You may not win in the world, in fact, such pursuits will lead to losing. But take heart, Jesus seeks, pursues, and saves losers. He pursues the cross for you. His cross puts your pursuits to an end, but there gives you real victory.

Father, forgive me for idolizing success. Teach me to love my brothers and sisters and to pursue peace instead of vain glory. I thank you for sending your Son to pursue me and give me His salvation. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

After teaching wives how to show honor to their husbands, Peter turns his attention towards the men (but wives, you pay attention too!).

There is Eve in the Garden of Eden. She is suddenly confronted by a snake who begins to entice her to eat fruit from God’s forbidden tree. She enters into conversation with the snake, who deceives her into sinning. Where is Adam this whole time? Is he fighting off the serpent? Is he protecting his wife? Is he faithfully tending to the garden God has given him charge of? No. He is standing there watching and silent. Eve went to the tree “took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate” (Genesis 3:6). Later, when God came to pronounce judgment, as much as Adam tried to pass the buck, God held him responsible (Genesis 3:9).

Men, God has called you to be leaders in your home. You are called to provide for your families, to protect your marriage, to fight for your wife. Our culture encourages men to be overgrown, irresponsible boys who want their wives to mother them. For this, we need to repent. Unlike Adam we are to fight for our marriages, sacrificially love our wives, and take responsibility for our families. We are to follow Jesus, who has done this for us. He has driven off the devil and now feeds us with the fruit of his cross in the sacrament. His protection and provision save His bride the church. In the same way, husbands, you ought to love your wives (Ephesians 5:33).

Father, forgive us for buying into the lie that men are nothing but lazy slobs. Raise up men in your church to lead their families and communities with confidence and grace. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 3:1-6 Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives- when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external- the braiding of hair, the wearing of gold, or the putting on of clothing- but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Peter has taught us how we are to show honor and respect to our governing authorities and employers thus far. Today, he turns our attention towards the family. He gives instructions to wives and husbands in how they are to love and honor each other. Today, Peter’s words are directed at wives (but husbands, listen up!).

It is no longer popular to talk about wives submitting to their husbands. Many wedding ceremonies no longer use the biblical language in the vows. Too many men have abused their responsibility as leaders in the home, thus giving “submission” a bad name.

Perhaps we need to be reminded of what it is God is calling wives to submit to. Read Ephesians 5:25-33. God has called men to be the leaders in their homes, but to lead as Christ has led the church. That is, He is to lay down his life for his wife. He is to protect and provide for his wife and family. He is to live and die for his bride, so that she is beautifully adorned and unconditionally loved.

Wives, you are called by God to make this a joy for your husband. Honor him, thank him, build him up so that he knows you appreciate him. Forgive him when he fails. Even if he is not a Christian, he is still your husband whom God has called you to love. Do this all, yes, out of love for your husband, but even more, to the glory of God, knowing that this is how His Son Jesus has loved you.

Father, forgive me for caring more about my rights than my spouse. Teach me to love and honor my spouse. Teach us all to celebrate your marvelous gift of marriage. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 2:21-25 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Yesterday, Peter had some very difficult advice for how we are to endure hardships: We are to patiently suffer through it! Who does that? Who patiently suffers? Shouldn’t we get lawyers involved? Shouldn’t we hit back? Eye for an eye is the only way to deal with those who hurt us, isn’t it?

Praise God for our sakes that it is not the way God has dealt with us! In fact, when Jesus came down to earth, you and I and every sinner committed the greatest act of treason in the history of the world, we treated our kind and loving Lord like an unjust slave-driver and nailed Him to a tree. Now, He had every right and ability to take that sin and deal with it according to His justice. He could crush us in our sin. Instead, He graciously took those sins into himself, bore them on the tree, and died for them. He didn’t fight back. He did something far more powerful, He forgave you. His mercy triumphed over justice for you (James 2:13).

As sheep of this Shepherd, we learn how to endure injustice in this world. We may suffer, but we do so praying for our enemies and forgiving their sins. After all, we know that no matter how harshly they treat us, we have received and will receive far greater glory from our Father in Heaven. For, we belong to Jesus, and He has overcome this world for us.

Father, I thank you that you have shown me mercy despite my sins against you. Grant me the strength to do the same for those who sin against me. I confess that I cannot do it alone. Grant me your Spirit to be gracious. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

1 Peter 2:18-20 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.

Though we are sojourners in this world (I Peter 2:11), we are still called by God to work as His agents for the good of His creation (Matt. 5:12-16). Each relationship we have is a calling given to us by God to show His love and mercy to our fellow creatures. In our reading today, Peter speaks about the relationship we have with our employers.

In those days, you were either a master or a servant. It would be the modern day equivalent to a boss and an employee. Peter is teaching us today to be subject to our employers, superiors, or bosses out of respect for them and in order to bring honor to God’s name. God gives you your daily bread through your employer, and because God works through that person, you are to show them honor.

But this is not always easy, is it? Especially when we work for some pretty sinful people. Do we still need to show respect of those who don’t deserve it? Yes, but for the sake of God, not theirs. Are we just to be doormats that get walked all over? No, Peter says, but you who are free in Christ need not seek retaliation. Leave justice to God, for He will not allow your patient suffering to go unnoticed (Matt. 5:11-12). In fact, the promise of the resurrection is that God will one day make all injustice right. Your injustices have been forgiven by Christ. Pray your harsh boss’s will be too. But stand firm, and may your patient endurance drive others to praise your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

Father, grant me patience to endure injustice. Grant me confidence to defend those who suffer unjustly. And grant me faith to trust you to make things right through your Son Jesus Christ. AMEN

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

I Peter 2:13-17 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

In this world, God has established what we call two “realms” within which he operates. The church is the first realm, and the government is the second. Both are instituted by God himself. But both have very different purposes. The church exists to proclaim the forgiveness of sins for Christ’s sake. It calls sinners to repentance and announces their redemption by the grace of God. This is what God is doing in the church.

But, because we live in a world of sin where people live in constant denial of God’s authority, God has established the government as well. It is there, not to grant forgiveness to sinners, but to keep sinners in check. It exists to threaten punishments to lawbreakers and to bestow rewards on those who are just and upstanding citizens (Romans 13:1-7).

Martin Luther described the work God does in the church as His right hand at work, and the work He does through the state as His left hand. But, it is the same God who is over both. Thus, as Christians, we can find great joy living in both realms! As we rejoice for our life in the church where God ceaselessly forgives our sins with His Word and sacraments, we freely go out into the world to love our neighbors by working for a better society. You might say we do all this in God’s hands.

Father, you have ordered this society with great wisdom and direction. Forgive me for not appreciating the place you have called me to live. I thank you for your provision over our nation. Bless our president and all our leaders. Teach them your will, O Lord. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever

I Peter 2:11-12 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

Yesterday we read that God has graciously made us members of His kingdom. As sinners, apart from Christ, we dwelt in darkness. We couldn’t see God’s will for us clearly. We were blind. But, Christ has come and by His Word of forgiveness, has opened our eyes to the truth of our sin and God’s mercy. No longer dwelling in darkness, we look to Christ for guidance as we make our way to our homeland.

Now, the residents in the land of darkness do not take too kindly to the news that we are moving out. So they constantly tempt us to fall back into the darkness, to close our eyes to God’s will, and return to the slavery of our sin. When that doesn’t work because the Spirit causes us to stand firm, the world will begin to curse us, call us names, and seek to accuse us of all kinds of wrongdoing. This world wants our destruction.

They wanted the same for Jesus. But, He stood firm. Remember how hard it was for Pilate to find Jesus guilty? He had lived such a life that the accusations of his prosecutors couldn’t stand up in court. Nonetheless, they crucified Him.

As Jesus’ followers, we should not be surprised when we are treated like Christ by the world. But, rest assured, that though the world will seek to kill us, the Father in heaven will see our good deeds in the light of Christ’s death for us and raise us with Jesus saying “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). The world may treat us like Jesus, but on the day of the resurrection, so will the Father!

Father, I praise you for those times when the world has looked down on me for my faith. For I know when that happens, you look down on me in my faith and promise that you Son has overcome the world. Teach me to cling to you in the midst of trials and raise me on the last day so I may see your Son. AMEN!

*The symbol on the top of this devotional stands for “Verbum Domini Manet in Aeternum.” It is a Latin phrase which means “The Word of the Lord endures forever.” This phrase, based on I Peter 1:24-25, served as the battle cry of the Lutheran reformers as it reminded them that God’s Word alone was sufficient to teach them God’s will. The symbol was on flags, banners, uniforms, and even swords as a sign of unity among those who suffered for confessing their faith in Christ alone. *

Pastor Bob

Labels: word-remains-forever