1 Peter 1:9-11 So, why the New Testament's emphasis on godly character? We have talked about this subject from time to time. Peter's concern is that is readers be confident in their salvation. Vs.9 very bluntly states that if we have no desire to change from what we were prior to coming to Christ then we don't know what we have been saved from- we don't recognize how spiritually deplorable our previous state was. A problem in our world today is that sinfulness has been normalized. What I mean is that there is no sense of accountability or shame- 'I can do what I want, when I want, it's my life.' The problem with that philosophy is that it does not take into account that there is a judgment day coming. We will be judged for the deeds done in the flesh. God is real! (2 Cor.5:10) The reason we come to God seeking his mercy for our soul is because the awfulness of our sin lies before our eyes and its sure punishment confronts us. Sorrow and remorse are important aspects of repentance. If I don't have any remorse why would I desire mercy?
Peter goes on. Vs. 10 is a call to be active (diligent) in pursuing God honoring behavior (that's the supplements mentioned in vs.5-7). As those virtues take hold in our lives, they give us confidence in our walk with God- that it is pleasing to him. As they are applied they change the trajectory of our lives as well- but remember it all begins with our bowing before Jesus seeking his mercy- salvation for our soul.
Finally, as these virtues supplement our faith they also prepare us for a grand entrance into heaven-a richly provided entrance. For myself, when I enter heaven one day, I would like to hear, "Well done good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord." I don't want to enter by the skin of my teeth!
Pastor Paul
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