Knowing
This week I have been reading Peter, who wrote two letters contained in the New Testament. This is Peter, one of the original twelve Disciples, whom Jesus called, trained and empowered. This is the same Peter, who often didn’t think before he acted and denied he knew Jesus when He was being sentenced to death. Peter wrote this letter as an old man (around 64AD) and encouraged the early church to stay true Christ as they faced persecution...
“But you are a chosen people, royal priests, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession. You were chosen to tell about the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. At one time you were not a people, but now you are God’s people. In the past you had never received mercy, but now you have received God’s mercy.”
Peter began by stating who they were as God’s people - that’s identity. He then said what God longed for them to do - that’s purpose. He repeated that they were God’s people - that’s really important, so he said it twice! He concluded, that all this was only possible because of God’s mercy - that’s Gods character. Peter’s words ring true for 21st Century Christians: Know your identity. Know your purpose. Know your identity (in case you missed it the first time). Know that God is merciful!
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader