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Bible Study 2 Timothy

2 Timothy | Chapter 3

Where the last chapter ends with some hope that folks might be convinced of the truth of Jesus, the work laid out for Timothy remains difficult, as it has been for Paul. Again, when Paul says “last days”, the implication isn’t that it’s only a week or two and then Jesus is expected to return. They are in the “last” days, as we are, because upon the return of Jesus we will no longer count days. So, what we are living in now are it.

What kind of difficulty? Well, folks will largely worship themselves and their own desires and abandon any concept of a greater morality that is beyond them. Notice that almost all of these descriptions are self-serving, self-focused and self-promoting. Certainly, this has always been a problem (Joshua 21:25 says, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” This was a description of God’s people then who basically didn’t submit to a specific moral standard and just did whatever they individually thought was best.)

This is problematic, of course, because if there is no objective standard of morality (what we would say comes from God) then there is no such thing as evil. If what is good or not good is simply a matter of individual opinion, although you may find theft to be wrong, as long as the thief doesn’t see a problem with it then it’s simply what you think is good vs. what he thinks is good. And since folks tend to be easy on themselves and hard on others when it comes to how they evaluate right and wrong, the end result is a selfish free-for-all. You want to know why God gives a law, both an identity and how to live? Because what is right in my eyes comes from a very limited perspective that tends to favor me. I need someone who has the big picture to set that right and God does that.

The world Timothy is in, the one that we are still in today, continues to trend away from what God says is good and towards what each individual says is good. And Paul is right, that’s difficult, because most people don’t take kindly to the assertion that what they “feel” or “believe” to be good isn’t really good at all. That’s a perspective not changed, though, by finger pointing (if they don’t know Jesus, we can’t be surprised that they don’t trust His perspective on morality.) If it’s to change, it’s changed by Jesus, the combination of truth and love. That’s why we’re about the business we’re about.

Paul calls out fellas who deceive women, specifically women who have had difficult and likely sinful pasts and who are susceptible to false promises and the deceit of these dudes. But just like Jannes and Jambres, the names of the Egyptian magicians from Exodus 7 who were able to turn their staffs into serpents just like Moses did, they will be outed as being in opposition to God’s truth (Moses’ snake eventually eats theirs. The Bible doesn’t explain how these magicians were able to turn their staffs into snakes). Their relevance to the fellas Paul is talking about is that, despite their deceit and tricks, ultimately God will ensure that their folly is revealed to all.

In contrast, what Paul has been teaching and living is not deceit, it’s the real deal and Timothy has been following in those footsteps. One of the ways this is affirmed is in Paul’s suffering. The big list in the previous paragraph is all about selfishness; Paul’s example and constant call (echoing that of Jesus, of course) is in service to God, the message of the Good News, and to others. In fact, Paul says that all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted while evil people and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. I think that’s a key point, these dudes are deceived and their deceit upon others is an outpouring of that. That doesn’t excuse it, of course, but I say it to point out that false teaching and selfish deceit very rarely limit their damage to the individual; it spreads to the world around them with little effort.

So, that’s the work. Timothy is to continue in confidence in what he has learned and counter the deceit that is perpetuating from elsewhere (obviously, this is still our work). Where do we go for a firm foundation? Scripture. Paul says that all Scripture is “God-breathed”, basically given to us using human authors but ensured to be the accurate information God wanted communicated. Now, in the context of this letter, Scripture would most likely mean the Old Testament, that was what they actually had for Scripture. However, by this point there are probably some New Testament documents available to them as well (Matthew, for example). In either case, we protect against deceit by reading Scripture, knowing the difference between what God says is good and what is not, and soaking in the example of Jesus so that we know how we shall live in these days of difficulty; not just to survive this world but to be part of sharing Good News for its redemption.

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Bible Study 2 Timothy

2 Timothy | Chapter 2

Paul continues the same discussion in chapter 2, just in slightly different ways. We’re still talking about the grace of Jesus and still talking about carrying forth that which Paul started. In an echo from his first letter to Timothy, Paul encourages him to, “…entrust [what you have heard from me] to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” Basically, make disciples. Also, remember the word “disciple” means “student”. You tend to attract the type of students who you would make a good teacher for. That means as you live your life following Jesus and take people with you, don’t surprised that you’re making different kinds of disciples that focus on different things, have different skill sets, seem adept at certain areas compared to the kinds of disciples I make. It takes all kinds boys, and God is in the all kinds business. Faithful in the means, let God handle the ends. Timothy, as a teacher, will tend to attract other teachers. Seems good!

Paul then follows with three examples illustrating ways to live for Jesus. First, the picture of a soldier, being about the King’s business and suffering, if need be, to keep on with the mission at hand. Said soldier doesn’t get distracted by other affairs because, again, He’s on the King’s business. Seems like a good reminder. King Jesus says take up your cross and follow me, how often do you get derailed to pick your undies out of your butt crack and to chat up some other loafer who has decided to not be about the King’s business? Watch your distractions, especially the value you give societal work that isn’t related to what God is up to. (In case you need an example, sometimes politics is the Lord’s work, sometimes it’s a pair of undies up your butt crack. Use some discernment.)

Second, an athlete. This one’s pretty simple, if your goal is to win a certain event, you can’t cheat, got to play by the rules. The encouragement here is to be faithful to the way things are done as laid out by the actual judge of the event. Again, faithful in the means, let God handle the ends. We can get this wrong, obviously, if we try to attain the things that represent God-honoring victory in ways that don’t honor God. We can’t gimmick the masses into heaven, we can’t hide things that Jesus says that make people uncomfortable and we can’t act like you can take on the new identity Jesus provides without giving up yourself completely to it. We are faithful in the means because they are good!

Thirdly, the hard-working farmer. This one is more ambiguous because, although Paul provides some level of explanation on the first two, he simply tells Timothy to think on this one and the Lord will provide understanding. It seems right to me here for us to do the same. However, if there are certainties in here given the two examples that came before it, the ultimate point is related to the work done in service of the King and that which is reaped from it. (Some might jump to heavenly rewards here, but I’m not sure that has to be in view. What is the product, the crop of faithful disciple making and Kingdom work? Are there things that this might point to in this life as opposed to being exclusively in the next? Just something to ponder.)

Timothy’s rightful work continues in view, with Paul reminding him of the core gospel. (His gospel? Yeah, it’s the good news that Paul brings, there’s no scandal here.) Paul is suffering, bound up, the the word of God is not bound! (I mean, that’s probably in the top 3 for tattoo options. Freakin’ right the Word is not bound!) What’s Paul getting at? This is the work, man. It’s the work for Paul, it’s the work for Timothy, heck, it’s the work of disciple making. It’ll put you in the straights, people will ignore you, or try to suppress what you’re doing. As we’ve seen elsewhere people who you think were getting it turn on you or start listening to false teaching as soon as you stop giving them attention. It’s a rough deal sometimes. However, it’s done so that folk may be saved from separation from God; that they may be forever with He who loves like no one else. (The trustworthy phrase at the tail end of this is something probably worth memorizing. It’s encouraging, true, convicting, and shows God is better than us at this relationship. All good things to remember.)

You know what’s interesting, starting in verse 14 there’s a bit of a parallel between the examples from earlier. The soldier who isn’t to get distracted with other affairs shows up in, “…not to quarrel about words…”, distracted by things that aren’t essential to what’s going on. There also is a bit of a parallel with the athlete who needs to follow the rules God lays out in, “…avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.” These aren’t slam dunks but they seem close. I’d feel more comfortable about it intentionality if there was a farm-worker-esque item here, although that would be stealing understanding that the Lord is on the hook for so I guess it wouldn’t make sense to include here either.

We covered this in the Thessalonica letters, but it sounds like that isn’t the only church who is hearing from dudes who ought to know better who are saying that the Day of the Lord has already come and gone and that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred. Why do people do that, tell lies and rile people up? Because even false knowledge is power. Once you know something someone else doesn’t, they will not only look to you to provide it but also how to react to it. It’s how you make disciples of Jesus, but it’s also how you make disciples of yourself. The distinction is the knowledge that you share and its truth. We need a great arbiter to know the difference and God provided it in Scripture. That’s how we know.

I’ll skip a full review on the vessels, just know that you’re supposed to be up to honorable use. Not sure what to pray in the morning? Try, “Lord, how can I be useful to you today? Protect me, keep me so that I may be of honorable use.” That’s not a tattoo, it’s too long and in Chinese it ends up looking like a hut on the back of a turtle.)

The chapter ends in the same vein. What does it look like to serve Jesus and others? It looks like righteousness, faith, love and peace. It looks like a pure heart, avoiding quarrels, kindness, patience in the face of evil, courage and gentleness in correction so that they may repent and know the truth and escape the snare of the devil. You know, I was thinking today of the phrase “Enoch walked with God”. Enoch didn’t sit on his brains and tell God that He was doing cool things while waiting for God to take him to heaven. God is up and about and moving and Enoch is doing the same. Salvation isn’t sedentary, it’s an active relationship with King Jesus. You can have that relationship because he allows it, no other reason. However, now that you’re friends, he gives you good gifts and Kingdom work to do. The best is yet to come, but for now. we walk with God by doing the work. We avoid sin because our King who loves us says it’s bad for us and because it brings junk into His Kingdom. What I’m getting at here is that Christians miss out on a lot of what Jesus offers because we’re sitting down yelling, “Atta boy, Jesus. Salvation! Fist pump!” Do the work. Repent. Be kind. Avoid quarrels. Make disciples. Get into prison or something. It’s not an easy life, but it’s the right one. (Did taking up a cross sound easy to you? Of course not.)

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Bible Study 2 Timothy

2 Timothy | Chapter 1

Paul opens as he always does with an identification of who he is, who he is writing to, and the offering of some combination of grace, peace and mercy. His inclusion of “…the promise of the life that is in Christ Jesus…” is interesting given his current situation of imprisonment and anticipation of execution (which will indeed soon happen). Also note his description of Timothy as his “beloved child”. This has to be a difficult letter for Paul to write. Yes, he has been in tough spots before, but seems to recognize through this letter that this particular situation will end in his death. His role now is to lead Timothy to continue the work he can no longer do.

And Timothy is not just a dude he met along the journey. Paul prays all the time for him, remembering his mother and grandmother by name and the faith that they had. In light of this lineage, Paul reminds Timothy to “…fan into flame the gift of God…”. There is no restraint here. Timothy comes from a faithful family and has been taught by a faithful man who encountered the risen Jesus himself. God has given Timothy the skills and means to change the world with Good News, Paul says pour gas on that beast, carry the light boldly, with love and no fear. (Don’t miss the personal application here both as a child of God and, if it is your situation, as a parent yourself. Whatever way God has gifted you to change the world with His Good News, live it out and pass it on.)

Paul continues, ever willing to have people imitate him as he imitates Christ. He tells Timothy to not only not be ashamed of Paul’s situation, but share in it (not for the sake of being in the straights, it’s gospel work.) Keep this paragraph in context, “…his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus…”. The focus of this isn’t Paul and Timothy, it’s Jesus. Jesus was the purpose and grace that was planned since the beginning that ultimately manifested itself through his life, death, resurrection and ascension. Paul and Timothy’s work, as ours is, is to proclaim this reality. Jesus abolished death (we need say cool things like this more often); he brought life and immortality to light (something Paul might have had on his mind given his situation.)

But as can be expected, Paul is resolute. He is not ashamed of his position, he has been faithful in the means and trusts that God will appropriately handle the ends, guarding the reward that is due those who serve righteously in the Kingdom. And, he encourages Timothy to do the same. Again, the legacy Paul leaves is one we are called to as well. Who are you taking with you as you follow Jesus? Who can you encourage and say, “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in faith and love that are in Christ Jesus”? Gotta do it, fellas. Paul isn’t in prison for loving Jesus, he’s in prison for trying to make disciples.

And the consequences of doing so are sometimes too much for others to take. Sounds like the folk in Asia abandoned Paul in his needs upon his imprisonment, especially a couple cats with long names. Hermogenes sounds like doofus anyway. But not everyone cut him loose, Onesiphorus seems like a good dude, not only unashamed of Paul but seeking him out to visit. Man, visiting folks in prison has been on my mind quite a bit lately, gotta figure that out.

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2 Timothy

2 Timothy | Introduction

This final letter to Timothy (and Paul’s final published letter ever) was most likely written during his second imprisonment in Rome, the one that will culminate in his death. He’s not writing to address a specific concern, it’s more of a farewell. In fact, keep this perspective in mind as you read. Timothy means quite a bit to Paul, not only as a co-laborer in difficult and often antagonistic work, but also as a supporter, a mentee, and, in Paul’s words, a son. In essence, Paul is saying good-bye to a man who was like a son to him, and greater still, encouraging a man who is to continue the work that Paul himself is dying for. This is a deeply emotional letter and should be read as such.

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Introduction

This one is pretty simple. Peter is writing to Christians in Asia Minor (modern day Turkey), most likely from Rome in the early 60’s. Although there is no universal decree against Christians, even during the reign of Nero (who would use Christians as human torches in his garden), there are certainly pockets of persecution and pressure to either deny Jesus or express joint fealty between Him and the emperor. This theme under-girds the letter, reminding the recipients that following Jesus is a perseverance game and to delight not only in what awaits them in the afterlife but also in what that means for their current days on earth. Peter will be martyred within 5 years of this letter, crucified upside down next to his wife.

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Chapter 1

This letter is from Peter, a “sent one” of Jesus Christ. He’s writing to the elect exiles in various places of Asia Minor. Not to wade too far into what is an often contentious discussion, but the word “elect” here is linked to the items that follow, “…according to…” So, these folks are identified as “chosen” or “elect” based upon 1.) the foreknowledge of God, 2.) evidence of the work of the Spirit, 3.) their obedience to Jesus and 4.) because of what Jesus did on the cross. There is still a response, an obedience in here (as opposed to a blanket “God chose you and that’s it” type of thing) and this will generally drive the context as we continue to see language like this from Peter going forward.

Peter’s encouragement starting in v.3 is the assurance of not only what has been graciously given to these folks but of the fact that what awaits them is protected. Don’t read too quickly over “living hope” as it rightly casts the impact of how the promises of the future inform how we live today. We are a hopeful people, a joyful people, because we live in our current state full of anticipation of what is yet to come. If you’re missing this in your life, it may be because you’re missing a long-term view on not only what is yet to come but also how what you do today points to that and shares it with others.

This inheritance is imperishable, undefiled and unfading and they are being guarded as they wait by God’s power, even as they see persecution and trials currently. What feels odd here is the element of “testing” that Peter describes in this section. I think the right way to look at it is being able to see how God’s power has given you the ability to persevere through various circumstances, which actually results in your faith being emboldened because the genuineness of your faith is revealed to you through the trial. Refinement is good. Sometimes it seems corny when people talk about God putting them through a refining process, and it comes off that way because it implies God is doing something specifically that is more likely to be just a circumstance of the world. However, the concept is still good. We praise God when we find ourselves being sifted or tested because we know it produces stronger faith on the other side (or reveals no faith at all. Might as well deal with reality either way).

And this faith, worth more than the most refined gold, results in praise and glory and honor when Jesus is finally revealed forever. And this faith is all the more beautiful because these folks, like us, and unlike Peter, have never seen Jesus, yet they love him and believe in him and rejoice at what he has done. And like us, they obtain the outcome of that faith, that trust, and that’s the eternal reward and rest for our souls.

The anecdote about salvation is an interesting one, especially concerning Peter’s most likely Gentile audience here. He says that the prophets, whom the Holy Spirit worked through to proclaim that these things of Jesus would come to pass some day, were knowingly working in the service of those who get to experience the world post-Jesus. And the things these dispersed Christians now know are things the angels have longed to know. Nothing theologically huge here, just kind of an interesting perspective.

Peter ends the chapter talking about the right reaction today based upon what they know is ahead. Basically, in light of the promise, how then shall we live? Well, they keep calm, remain hopeful, and walk righteously by being obedient to Jesus and not falling back into old habits (like people who have no hope and don’t know any better. That’s not them and it’s not you either.) God is set apart from the world and he asks His people to be that same way as well. Once you proclaim your fealty to Jesus, you’re a citizen of His Kingdom which means your citizenship doesn’t belong to this earthly world and your behavior shouldn’t reflect it either. Live like a Kingdom citizen (see Matthew 5-7 for a quick reminder).

And as you call upon God as your Father (which indeed He is), stay consistent with the identity of people who are permitted to do such a thing. Basically, your relationship with God should be consistent. If you’re going to call Him Father, obey Him like one, don’t go back to your old ways acting as if your brother Jesus didn’t pay a huge ransom for your return to the family. Stay reverent, hopeful, obedient; it’s how you shall live as you wait to live forever.

The chapter ends with a note to remain steadfast (same theme), be confident in the good news you have heard and to love one another purely. Peter continues to intertwine forever promises of God with what that means for your day to day earthly living. It’s not just a “hey, you should consider doing x, y an z while you wait to go to heaven” Instead it’s, “Because heaven awaits you. live like this right now!”

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Chapter 2

Peter continues to lay out the reaction to the “…good news that was preached to you.” As we’ve noted before, what we’ve heard and what we believe impact what we do. Peter says this good news causes us to put away all evil, to speak only true things, whatever may result in them. I’ve found that’s a pretty good bell-weather on where I’m at in obeying Jesus, my willingness to tell the truth no matter the consequences. Watch yourselves, the minute you start couching stuff in half-truths, silence or flat out deceit, there are bigger things at risk in your life. Honesty is refreshing, necessary and the foundation of true freedom. Examine this directly in your life, anything short of integrity in this area is bondage and Jesus has more for you to do than shackle yourself yourself by doing dishonorable things to try and protect your honor (yes, it’s as silly as it sounds).

Peter uses the example of an infant, who will reject any other food except that which is pure and meant for it. Through that, they grow healthy into who they are meant to be. Similarly, as we pursue pure spiritual milk (Scripture, most likely), we grow healthy into the salvation that we have been given. Don’t get too caught up in this example, sometimes we read an implication that you “grow” into salvation as in you demonstrate that you’ve earned it. That’s not the case. It’s basically a connection of keeping what you take in pure so that you get the full freedom Jesus has given you. You take in less than that and it will result in you growing up and not getting the fullness of what Jesus died for. Don’t do that.

Then we get a cool reminder of who Jesus is and who we are in light of that. Jesus is a living stone, the foundation of a Kingdom built upon who He is and what He has done. In Him, we are a spiritual house (the new Temple, if you will. God’s presence used to be in the Holy of Holies in the Temple, it was the place where heaven and earth literally intersected. Now, the Spirit lives in us, we are where heaven and earth intersect.) And, we offer spiritual sacrifices (you can twist this all you want, but the sacrifice is ultimately your works. Think Romans 12 where Paul says we are to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. You’re taking your life and offering it to God as his to do with as He pleases. If that’s not appealing to you, you’re not ready for Kingdom living.)

The quote is from Isaiah 28 (read at least part of that, it’s fierce. Folk making covenants with death and Sheol like a bunch of goons and God pointing out how dumb that was to do.) In either case, the promise there, as well as here, was that God sets things right and rebuilds with a cornerstone that is true and right and those who believe in Him will not be put to shame, unlike those folks who have gone into cahoots with death.

Peter reasserts here that the honor is for you who believe (keep this in context, it’s important to not allow some of the words that follow drive you off a cliff.) Then he switches to what happens to those who don’t believe. They reject the cornerstone and the denial of that truth starts jacking with their lives. They disobey because they do not believe, as was always going to be the case. Don’t think “destiny” as in “God made sure it would happen this way because he doesn’t like these folks.” Think of it as a natural consequence, like the phrase, “those who ignore the past are destined to repeat it.” Because of something they are doing (not believing, rejecting the cornerstone), they disobey the word (obviously because they didn’t believe it in the first place).

But those who do believe are destined for other things. They are chosen to be a royal priesthood, a nation set apart from all else, belonging to God. If you didn’t know you were a priest, congratulations! Your Father gives good gifts and loves His children. Now, go forth in obedience, your majesty. And don’t forget what God has done for you. He has given you mercy and a fresh identity as His people, His church.

And…this Bud’s for you. Back to “how then shall we live?”, Peter says that us sojourners and exiles (from where? Earth. We’re Kingdom folk now, as soon as you commit to King Jesus you are now an alien in a foreign land), need to abstain from the passions of the flesh which wage war against your soul. That’s not soft language, boys, and it ought not be. There is a war against your soul being waged on computer screens, mobile phones, magazines, your average beach, loose commitments, false promises, low-cut tops showing cleavage that doesn’t belong to you, and sundry other temptations and distractions that are meant to make you feel good while they stab you in the back, take your wallet and spit on your family. This is a war, fellas, and we often fight it with all the tenacity of a co-ed ping pong tournament where the loser buys a couple rounds of Milwaukee’s Best for the winner. If you’re not married to her, the sight or use of her parts doesn’t belong to you, even if she’s offering it, giving the image away for free, or making it easy to find on the internet. Gotta do things God’s way (remember, they’re His way for a reason, because He loves you and knows what’s best.) I don’t know a man who doesn’t struggle with this in some way or another, me included. Watch out for one another in this, be loving but be helpful, don’t forget we’re in a war here.

What’s the impact? Paul talks about others but Peter is aware here of how those who aren’t currently in God’s Kingdom will see it (because what you do matters.) Peter just got done laying the foundation of those who are holy, set apart for God, and their job is to act like it, be good examples, shine God’s goodness through in what you do.

The hard words continue. Peter says to not act like a bunch of anarchist apes when it comes to worldly powers and authorities. You follow Jesus, show respect to those in authority, and do good. The Lord seems to think that doing good will silence ignorant, foolish people, and it seems prudent to agree with Him on the matter. (This happened with Jesus, yes? One of the same soldiers who beat him on the way to the cross acknowledged that He was indeed the Son of God at the foot of the cross. His senseless, foolish talk and actions were silenced by the good Jesus has done and the way he handled himself.)

Tattoo option #2: Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. This stuff is so simple. God likes pure things. Live free for freedom’s sake, not as a facade so you can be shackled to sin. Be servants of God, do as He asks, for your joy, His glory and the benefit of others. Simple stuff. There’s no loophole, trapdoor or excuse; just do the thing and live in freedom.

Peter, deciding to put every possible point of contention in the same chapter, Peter addresses slaves and masters. Although not the same as slavery in America’s history, masters often mistreated those who worked for them (think indentured servants for a loose understanding of the arrangement, see study on 1 Timothy 6 for additional information.) Even so, Peter says to be faithful in the means, Do good even to those who do not do good to you. This has kind of been the theme here, God’s people staying faithful and true as an example to a blind and sinful world. It impacts Gentiles (non-believers), the emperor and his top man, as well as slave masters. Perseverance and persistence in the face of evil is where good shines the brightest.

And Jesus was the example. Jesus’ purity was so stark against the sinfulness that put him on the cross; the evil acts and treatment that physically made it happen. He left us an example that we may follow in his steps. This is radical trust in God to love those who hate you, serve those who mistreat you, be an example for good even when harsh words, violence, and other retaliations seem justified. Those are all reasonable in this world. But we’re Kingdom citizens, that’s not how Jesus fights so it’s not how we fight. Peter reiterates here that Jesus didn’t respond wrongly because he trusted himself to him who judges justly. When we take all that into our own hands, we basically tell God that we don’t trust that he’ll handle the situation rightly so we’re going to do the what needs to be done and yell at the guy who made us angry or puncture his car tires or cut the Mediacom cable on the outside of his house so he loses his 200 channels of crapola. We don’t do that stuff (ah hem, you know, anymore).

All this because…we’ve been healed. We were once like everyone else, but Jesus has sacrificed and served us that we may return to the good and perfect care of our Shepherd, the one who protects and keeps our souls. Jesus. And the guy that made you angry? He can have that, too. And you want it for him (start praying for him, you’ll find that you’re much more gracious with people when you’re praying for them.)

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Chapter 3

“Likewise…” If you’ve been playing along on the home game, alarms and whistles should be going off here. When sentences start with therefore, so, likewise, your immediate reaction should be to start looking for context. In this case, likewise tells us that what he is about to say about wives is similar to something he’s already talked about. On the more difficult side, the thing that is similar is his recent discussion on servants and their masters. (And…cue open season on reading this text lazily.)

Keep the whole sentence in context. Peter says wives should obey their husbands even if they don’t obey God’s word so that the respectful and pure conduct may be enough to win the husband to Jesus. See the connection now? Peter was advocating for the same thing for servants, that they persist in doing good even in the face of someone who is not treating them in the way they deserve. It’s a continuing theme as this was the same point Peter was making about abstaining from passions of flesh to remain a good example to those who don’t know Jesus.

The point is continued in the talk of not focusing on external adorning. The point is not that ladies can’t wear gold jewelry or nice clothing, it’s that true beauty that never dies and is precious in the sight of God are the things of the heart and the spirit. It is these same things that are intended to influence the husband who doesn’t know Jesus. It is a virtue to show honor to your husband (that’s what the Sarah submitting to Abraham story is for, “lord” is a reference of respect and honor).

Husbands, similarly, are called to show honor to their wives, living with them in a knowledgeable and understanding way. (This means you don’t get to be some kind of ape, you have to “know” your wife, do your best to understand her, care about what’s going on, etc.) Peter says she’s the weaker vessel, which seems to be a point of contention for some. However, ask any 8 year old and they will be able to tell you that, generally speaking, fellas are stronger than ladies. (Weaker “vessel”, think “container”. It’s a physical description, don’t over-invest beyond that.)

If ladies don’t follow Peter’s instruction, they may draw the wrong kind of attention and not make any progress with their non-believing husbands. If fellas don’t follow and care for their wives who share the grace of life with them, God may stop listening to their prayers. With the honor comes the responsibility, boys. And this doesn’t change the general description of Jesus for you to be a servant of all, that includes your wife. Jesus has high expectations for you as an example, fight for it.

This idea of sacrificing, perseverance and persistence in faith continues holistically. Peter encourages the church to stick together, love one another, care for and be kind, and don’t think higher of yourself than you should. You see evil or people hating, you don’t respond in kind. In fact, you bless them and in return you will be blessed. (I mean dang, evil comes your way and you are supposed to bless in return. Only in the Kingdom of Jesus can that be right. In any other circumstances it’s just foolish. Jesus makes all the difference, though.)

The quote is from Psalm 34. Read the whole Psalm, it certainly reinforces the point Peter is making here and is a cool reminder of how God is with us in our suffering. (I mean it, go read it. The point of studying Scripture isn’t speed or a false sense of human accomplishment, soak it in.) v.13 and forward continue on the same trajectory as the quoted Psalm.

Peter tells us we need to be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. Now, although we often use this verse as a foundation for having a good apologetics framework (the study of the defense of Scripture and the truth it contains), I think in context the real thrust is hope in the context of suffering. When folks see us persisting in good even in the midst of evil, in trust of God even when by the world’s standards things are not going well, can we provide an answer? Psalm 34 is exactly the type of answer we could provide, even further fulfilled in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. So yes, it’s great to know and study answers to people’s big questions about God, faith, science, creation, etc., just remember that Peter’s more relevant point is faith in the goodness of God, the hope in his sovereignty, even in the face of danger, mistreatment, and evil.

And how do we give that defense? With gentleness and respect, with a clear conscience. Why? Because when people attempt to slander you because of what you believe and the things you are saying, your conduct will testify on your behalf. You may still suffer for it, yes, but Peter says it is better to suffer for doing good than to suffer anyway and do the wrong thing. We do it because Jesus did it first and we follow Jesus.

Then Peter talks about Jesus proclaiming to spirits in prison. How to understand this one will get you in a shank fight at a theologian’s Bible and brew event somewhere on the West coast. Some tie it to the connected Noah story and say that Jesus was proclaiming to those just prior to the flood “through” Noah and other prophets. I mean, ok, but that really seems to jump context since this “proclaiming” seems to follow Jesus’ death in Peter’s description. Other options include Jesus going to hell and giving people or angels second chances, which you’d kind of have to bend other Scripture around to make that seem reasonable. I probably lean on “they” being a broad group of people (those who rejected God’s promise to be rescued through water) who are now listening based upon the life and example of Jesus (and they are now rescued through baptism, identifying with this community of believers that follow Jesus.) This explanation makes a whole lot of sense relative to what Peter has been talking about the last two chapters (saying the example of persistence and suffering helps change folks.)

On baptism, certainly Jesus work on the cross saves you (Peter says that it is through the resurrection of Jesus you have the ability to appeal for a good conscience), but he is pretty clear on getting baptized. More Bible and brew debates aside, Jesus says to do it and we obey Jesus so just get it done. Think of it as the public celebration of you entering the Kingdom. If you haven’t done it as an adult, let’s figure it out directly, always a good reason to have a celebration!

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Chapter 4

Peter’s still building on what has come before it. We ended the last chapter with a reminder of what Jesus has done and what He is now doing (ruling over stuff), and are now presented with Him as an example of suffering. Of course, this order brings the servanthood and suffering of Jesus into stark relief given his true position in the grand scheme of things (compared to us who have no throne to descend from and who ultimately cause most of our own suffering.) In either case, we’re to follow Jesus (as always, that’s more literal than we tend to take. Do the things he did for the people he did in the way he did it.) In this case, we’re potentially suffering at the hands of people who don’t like to hear true things or who don’t like to stop doing things that they enjoy, even though they’re bad for them.

So, we follow Jesus, even in suffering. Doing so is pretty good evidence that you’ve taken up your cross and generally pretty alright on not following human passions (most people don’t consider suffering a passion except…well, nevermind.) I don’t think this sentence is intended to imply folks have stopped sinning completely just because they suffer, I think the gist is that when you’re being selfless and sacrificing for Jesus sin doesn’t present the same level of temptation. Kind of an idle hands kind of thing, just up a couple of notches.
So, we don’t end up living how those who aren’t part of the Kingdom live, no orgies or drinking parties or lawless idolatry. (Note that I gave three things from the list, one of which you know for sure is problematic, one you may not completely understand, and one you may consider a gray area up for debate. Peter doesn’t make those additional qualifications, just for the record.) Not being part of this kind of thing is surprising to those who are doing it but note that ol’ Pete says you still say out of it and that there’s ultimately a right and wrong side of things that that powerful judge of a character from the end of the last chapter will hold them to account.

Theology and Brews debate #3 comes from the gospel being preached to the dead. Although there are other viable options, I most lean on this being a sinner=dead, Kingdom person=living/spirit kind of action. The gospel goes to those who are dead (us, sinful humanity) that they might live (…in the spirit the way God does, ultimately us redeemed in Christ). Other options include Jesus preaching in hell or other types of oddness. Either way, I’m not too concerned that we’re missing the heart of Jesus by not having a firm grasp on what Peter is getting at here.

And in case the preaching to the dead thing doesn’t grab your attention, Peter brings to reminder that the end of all things is at hand. This ties a little into how you may believe Jesus second coming is to occur but I generally read this to be an acknowledgment that all the things that needed to be completed prior to Christ’s return are done. He could show up at any time and close down the whole show. I don’t believe it requires us to think that Peter believed Jesus would return imminently in that time.

Notice, though, that he introduces the fact that the end of all things is at hand just so he can use a “therefore” to tell you how we should live in light of that. The Lord could return at any time so keep it under control, play it cool for the sake of your prayers (so if you can’t keep it cool and don’t know how to treat your wife, Peter basically implies you’re talking to yourself when you’re praying.) Above all of that, love each other, forgive each other, show hospitality to one another without complaining.

The gift thing is kind of interesting, the implication is that your gifts are intended to serve others and it is through those that, at least in part, God’s grace is distributed to the world. When you don’t use your gifts in that way, you’re a poor steward of what the Lord has given you. Dang, fellas. Focus on that over the next few days/weeks. Petition God, see if you can discover anywhere where you are denying grace to the world and being a poor steward of your gifts. They aren’t there to glorify you, that’s for sure. Put them to proper use.

Then back to suffering. Peter expects suffering so much that he posits some kind of Christian doofus who would act surprised that a trial has come upon him (a fiery one at that.) Not only should we expect it, we should rejoice in it! When we share in the same suffering that Jesus did, Peter says the glory of God is revealed. (This is interesting, certainly, in light of Peter’s own death on a cross where he asked to be crucified upside down, not feeling worthy to die in the exact same way as Jesus did.)

Where people insult you, you are blessed. It’s the whole deal, the world is turned upside down. This is no half-in Kingdom, we’re rejecting the way the world thinks and trading it for what Jesus thinks. They insult you, Jesus says it’s a blessing. They call it suffering, you call it glory. I didn’t fully feel the weight of these dichotomies until I began thinking of what I was teaching my children, what I was asking them to do and how to live. I’m teaching them to accept insults from the world, to suffer as need be. It puts the demands of the Kingdom and the fealty to Jesus in the right relief to place those same things onto the heads of your children. It kind of hit me hard at the time in the sense that it became more real to me personally as well.

The Old Testament rounds out the chapter with references from Ezekiel and Malachi, as well as Proverbs. Broad point is that there is a purification within God’s people, a refining. Suffering seems to serve this purpose, in addition to being a good witness to those around us. And they need it, because if the righteous are scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?

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Bible Study 1 Peter

1 Peter | Chapter 5

The normalization and expectation of suffering (even as a potential purifier of the church) leads to a call for those who lead and influence God’s people to stay on their game. Peter’s in this business, has been for a long time, so he knows the right ways to get things done. Basic instructions are to 1.) exercise oversight, basically, do the work, take the responsibility, 2.) do it willingly, 3.) lead humbly for the benefit of those you serve, just like family headship, elder-action is a call to service and sacrifice, 4.) be a an example (we saw this over and over again in Paul’s letters as well. Follow me as I follow Christ, that’s the deal.)

If you’re younger, let faithful folks who the Lord has called lead you. And for both leaders and otherwise, wear humility like a cloak, let it surround you and be with you always. God opposes the proud (it’s really the root of all sin), but God will react with grace when you act in humility. Not to let this slip by too quickly, every thing you’ve ever hidden from someone has pride at its root. Unconfessed sin, fear of sharing good news, lacking of service to others; pride undergirds all of these. Be careful on this. You’re likely not falling for abrasive, obvious pride issues but you are likely susceptible to much more insidious versions of pride (illusions of your own importance, protecting your image in lieu of repentance, half-truths about how things currently are. All risky.)

Humility, Peter tells us, leads to exaltation (by the mighty hand of God, who offers much better exaltation than whoever you’ve been trying to impress up to this point.) And to be clear, humility isn’t asking you to think less of yourself, it’s to act lower than what you are owed in the service of others because that’s how the Kingdom measures greatness. We’re a kingdom of priests, after all, we are certainly lifted up by the good graces of the King. But in response, we follow the example of the King and live in service to Him and the world He is calling to repentance and redemption. He knows what he’s calling you to, and cares for you greatly, so go to Him with your anxieties.
All the same, keep your eyes open and know that there is an enemy who is after you. Although some think there is true application to this broadly, the context here most likely points to buckling under the weight of suffering and anxiety, especially in attempts to retain humility (pride is a very strong temptation, as the Tempter himself could attest.) But be watchful, know that you are surrounded by a community who suffers along with you and a God who will bear you up. (Notice that many of the persecution and martyrdom accounts both inside and outside of Scripture have moments of calm and joy in the midst of them.)

In the end, you’re in God’s hands. You have been called to eternal glory and will be restored, confirmed, strengthened and established by Almighty God. It comes down to faith, trust. If God is who He says He is and keeps his promises, earthly suffering and anxiousness and whatever else are a small price to pay (and price that comes with the honor of serving He who loves better than anyone ever.) If not, well, the suffering is foolish and wasted.

The letter ends with references to a few known characters. Silvanus (or Silas) seems to be the man who delivered the letter for Peter, who thinks highly of him. As with any writer, Peter hopes they read it and, you know, pay attention to what’s in there. Also, he passes on greetings from “she who is at Babylon”. THIS COULD BE SOMEONE SUPER MYSTERIOUS!!! Or, as NT authors tend to do, they refer to Rome as Babylon, a stock OT character for a government or system who opposes God or His authority. The church in Rome says “Hi”. That makes more sense than some conspiratorial anger.

Finally, he mentions Mark, the John Mark who’s Mom likely owned the house the Upper Room from Acts was in and the same Mark who is believed to have written his gospel based upon the sermons/teachings of Peter himself. Peter’s obvious fondness for him (calling him “son”, much like how Paul refers to Timothy) affirms the likelihood the story of his authorship of the gospel as true.

Peter says peace to all those in Jesus, he out.