The Book of 1 Peter

 

The Apostle Peter, also known as Shimon "Keipha" Ben-Yonah/Bar-Yonah, Simon Peter, Cephas and Keipha - original name Shimon or Simeon. Roman Catholic Churches and other Orthodox Churches consider Simon Peter a saint, and associate him with the foundation of the church in Rome. Some who recognize his office as Bishop of Antioch, and later, as Bishop of Rome, or Pope, hold that his episcopacy held a primacy only of honor, as a first among equals. Some propose that his primacy was not intended to pass to his successors. Many scholars believe that Peter never even went to Rome, and there is no evidence in the bible to prove that he did. However, the bible does tell us that the apostle Paul accompanied by Luke went to Rome and started church's throughout Rome.

  The reason Paul went to Rome makes more sense because he was a Roman citizen. Even if Peter was in Rome, he would not have been the first one to establish a Christian church in Rome. What it comes down to, is the controversy between Christians, that Peter did or didn't start the first Christian church in Rome being the foundation, first bishop, and pope of the Roman Catholic church. Both draw their conclusions based on a question asked by Christ in the book of Matthew. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (Matthew 16:15-18). Christ was referring to Himself as the rock that the church would be built upon.

  If your Christian church does not recognize Christ as it's Foundation or Rock, then it is not a true Christian church. Yes, the word "Peter" in the Greek tongue is "Petros" and it means "rock or stone". However, it means a movable rock or stone. (Peter is just a pebble compared to Christ). Christ is our real Rock, and He is the Immovable Rock, or Cornerstone, "being the true Foundation of the Church." Even Peter in his teaching establishes that Christ is that foundation and cornerstone of the church, and Christianity as a whole. He brings forth Christ as our Savior as well as being our pattern for living as Christians. You will find that Peters teachings take into account the three world ages. We need to understand that there was a earth age before this one; the one we are in now, and there is another earth age yet to come. "Peter, one of the apostles who helped establish the Christian church, was a fisherman by trade, but was called by Christ to become a fisher of men."

1 Peter 1

 1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. Peter was a missionary, an apostle, (one sent forth), by Jesus Christ to the twelve tribes of Israel scattered abroad. (James 1:1). Many of which went north over the Caucus Mountains and settled in Europe and the Americas.

 2Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. To the elect, or strangers scattered. Those chose by God long ago to be made holy through obedience, and the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ.

 3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is by the Heavenly Fathers great mercy that we have the hope of being made spiritually alive, as Christ was raised again by the Heavenly Father defeating death.

 4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. If we follow Christ you will have a priceless inheritance that is kept in heaven for you that is pure and undefiled. Not things of this earth, but spiritual heavenly things that will last forever.

 5Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Through your faith, God will protect you by His power until salvation is revealed in the last days. (Acts 2:17).

 6Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations. Be glad because there is a great reward and joy ahead even if you suffer trials for a little while. As a Christian you are going to have many temptations that will come your way. Use your sanctification and power of the spirit to help you through tough times.

 7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. These trials show that your faith is genuine and is the testing of your faith. When your faith remains strong, it will bring you praise, honor, and glory when Christ returns at the second advent.

 8Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. These guys have seen Christ to ensure their faith, we have not. However, Even though you cannot see Him you still believe. God loves that kind of faith more than any other, and you can feel His presence through the Holy Spirit.

 9Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. The Living Word. It is your faith and trust in Him that will be the salvation of your soul.

 10Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you. This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this grace prepared for you.

 11Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Foretold in prophecy about both advents of Christ. (Zechariah 9:9-10, Psalms 22). Psalm 22 (the psalm of death), was written 1,000 years before the crucifixion.

 12Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. Through the prophets the Good News has been announced by those who preach in the power of the Holy Spirit. "The Spirit sent from heaven." Even the angels watch closely to these things which are happening.

 13Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Think clearly and exercise self-control. Open up your mind to understand His Word. Be serious and sincere and condition your mind by studying the Word of God to show yourself approved. "No work, no rewards." You can't buy understanding in God's Word, it is given to you by having faith in Jesus Christ. If you believe and search the scriptures, He will open up all knowledge to you.

 14As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance. Do not slip back into the ways of the world and traditions of men. (Those lusting after lies and religion). Christianity in not a religion, it is the reality in everyday life. The way you live your life has everything to do with Christianity.

 15But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. Be holy in everything you do when possible, just as God who chose you is holy.

 16Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. This refers to the laws of purification. (Leviticus 11:44). "Both in a physical and spiritual sense."

 17And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. God plays no favorites and you are judged according to your works. What works? Works that will further and help the many member body of Christ. The works of one trying to be a righteous stand-up person. (Anything pleasing to the Heavenly Father is considered good works).

 18Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers. It is not the flesh body, material things, and traditions of men that will save you. These are corruptible things of the world that are useless. "Only Christ does the saving, and its your faith in Him that will bring you salvation."

 19But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. It was the shedding of the blood of Christ. The sinless, spotless, "Lamb of God."

 20Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. God chose Him as your ransom long before the world began, but has revealed Him to you in the last days. (Read about the foundation of the world in our study topic titled "Three Earth Ages," or appendix 146 of the King James companion bible).

 21Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Through Christ you have come to trust God, placing your faith and hope in God because He raised Christ from the dead and gave Him great glory.

 22Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently. Forget about the flesh! You are cleansed from sin and purify the soul when you obey the truth. Then as Christians, we are to care about those who are misled and show them the truth. This is not always an easy task, especially with friends and family. Do your best to plant the seeds of truth, and your Heavenly Father will do the rest.

 23Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. Born from above! Not of a corruptible seed or body that shall parish, but born of a new spirit from within that will last forever because it comes from the eternal living Word of God.

 24For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away. The flesh will not always be around and will just wither away. As it says in (1 Corinthians 15:50), flesh and blood cannot enter the Kingdom of God. Its a spiritual thing; only the spirit of one can enter the kingdom, and we will all be changed to our spirit bodies at the return of Christ.

 25But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. The Word of the Lord is eternal. And the Word is the Good News that was preached to you. It will continue to be preached till all will be fulfilled in the end times. "The master plan of God."

I Peter 2

 1Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings. Get rid of all evil behavior. Deceit, hypocrisy, jealously, gossip and unkind speech.

 2As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. Crave the spiritual milk so you can grow into the meat of the Word and obtain a full experience of salvation. The meat of the Word is where the spiritual power and true wisdom comes from. "True wisdom to make sound decisions and real power to keep from evil."

 3If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. The spiritual milk gives you a taste for the Lord's kindness. However, if you want to discover the deeper truths you need to get into the meat of the Word. "A deeper study of the word from the beginning to the end." All the tools and knowledge are available, the rest is up to you.

 4To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious. Christ is that Living Chief Cornerstone of God's temple that was rejected by men, but chosen by God with great honor.

 5Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. We are also to be those living stones with spiritual sacrifices that please God. Those who accept and follow Him are the building blocks, or pillars of the many member body of Christ in the end time. Those who overcome will have their part in God's temple. (Revelation 3:12, 21:22).

 6Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Christ is that cornerstone to those who understand and believe on Him and they will not be confused. Are you confused? Do you know what is truly going on, and what will happen in the end times?

 7Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner. Many will not accept Christ and all His teachings; they pick it apart to play church and then they follow traditions of men.

 8And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. When they play church and follow traditions of men they will not understand the truth of God's Word. "Christ can become a stumbling block to them." How can Christ become a stumbling block? Remember that the antichrist comes first and will deceive many into believing he is the real Christ. He will be the stumbling block to those who follow him. God will also let you be deceived and believe a lie if you show no interest, and do not follow the truth of the Word. (2 Thessalonians 2:5-11).

 9But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. A chosen generation (Generation of the fig tree), or the last generation. Believed by many scholars that the generation from 1948 till present time is part of this last generation. The time of the end is very near my friend.

 10Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Those who know the truth and had His calling because they love God.

 11Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. Keep away from worldly desires that war against your soul. Take control of your flesh; study God's word and let the good spirit within guide you. "The Holy Spirit."

 12Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. Try to live properly and be honest among unbelievers to set a good example as a Christian. If you do this, they cannot speak against you.

 13Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme. Obey the laws of the land being a good citizen and bring forth God's Word as a caring person.

 14Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. The civil laws are here to protect those who are doing good and can protect you to bring forth God's Word to all who have an ear to hear.

 15For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. It is the will of God to silence those who make accusations against you, and to those who teach traditions of men and false doctrine.

 16As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. You are a free servant of God (a free agent), but don't use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. i.e. Don't be a scammer and rip off artist, especially when doing God's work.

 17Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king. Respect others and love your Christian brothers and sisters. You may not believe as they do, but you can still love them and be a good example to them as they are a good example to you. We need to stop fighting and disagreeing with each other over petty religious differences.

 18Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. When you are under others (such as in a job), you are to accept their authority if all possible. (Even if they are a little harsh towards you). Please others and it will help you in the long run. But, don't be someone's door mat. You are not a second class citizen, your a child of God!

 19For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. It pleases God when you do what you know it is right and patiently endure unfair treatment. When you please God, He can change minds of people to benefit you, if you do things according to Gods will.

 20For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. Don't look for credit from God when you are corrected for doing wrong. But, if you suffer from doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. Again, God can always intervene and change minds of people to benefit you. "God is in control and He is on your side."

 21For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps. God calls us to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. Christ is our example and we should try the best we can to follow His footsteps. It is good for the soul to be kind and pleasing to others as Christ was.

 22Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth. Christ never sinned nor deceived anyone. He was perfect and is the perfect example and roll model to all life.

 23Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously. Christ did not retaliate when He was insulted. He did not threaten revenge when He suffered. Everything that happened to Christ was God's will and He carried it out just as it was written.

 24Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. Christ Himself bare our sins on the cross so that upon repentance we can be dead to sin and live a free life for what is right. Do not let some church, priest, reverend, or religious organization put you in bondage with traditions of men and false teachings. Once again, you are a free agent in Christ Jesus.

 25For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. We were all once like sheep gone astray, but now we have a Shepherd who protects our soul. Christ is that Shepherd, and your mediator between you and the Heavenly Father, and you and the world. "Not some man." Do not be deceived!

I Peter 3

 1Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives. Accept the authority of your husband as head of the house if he is a godly, responsible wise person. However, don't listen to a fool. Your godly living together will speak to others without words, and they will be won over to the Lord. One should never prevent the other from studying the Word of God.

 2While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. They can see your innocence by your pure and reverent lives.

 3Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel. Don't be concerned with your outward beauty and dress like a pimp or harlot. Moderation is the key in your outward appearance.

 4But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Clothe yourself with the beauty of the spirit within. This is what is important to God. "Armani and Prada mean nothing to the Lord."

 5For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands. The women of old made themselves beautiful in this way. They trusted God and accepted authority of their husbands. (Not like today when they all want to wear the pants in the family).

 6Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. Do right in the Lord and you don't need to worry about what your husband might do. Don't panic over trivial things that can break up a relationship. (Couples today just look for a reason to argue).

 7Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered. Husbands should also give honor to their wives and treat them with understanding. She is your equal partner when married in God's gift of new life. (Today it appears woman are becoming the stronger vessel while men are turning to drama queens). Not what our Heavenly Father planned from the beginning. Everything seems to be going in the opposite direction.

 8Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. Be kind, courteous, and respectful to others. "If you want respect, you must respect others."

 9Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. Don't repay evil with evil. Pay them back with a blessing and God will bless you for it.

 10For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile. If you want to enjoy a happy life, stay away from gossip and telling lies. (i.e. get off the social media trip).

 11Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. Avoid evil and try to do what is right. Speak about good things in life and forget all the trash talk that the media put out there.

 12For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. God listens to those who try to do good and will answer their prayers, but will turn His head against those who do evil.

 13And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? No one will want to harm you if you do good. "God takes care of those who do His will."

 14But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled. Even if you suffer for doing His will, God will reward you for it. Don't be afraid of the threats of others or the ways of the world. "They can't harm one hair on your head when God is with you." The fact is, if they bother you, God may take them out.

 15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. Be founded in the Word so that you can answer someone that may ask you about your Christian hope. "It is called sharing your faith."

 16Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. Do this in a humble way... When they may speak evil of you, they will feel ashamed when they see the good life you live in Christ. Yes, many will become jealous of your relationship with Christ; but they may have it themselves if they ask for it with a sincere heart.

 17For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. It is better to suffer for doing the will of God, than to suffer for doing wrong. There is always going to be some suffering in these flesh bodies; so it might as well be for doing good, it just makes it all seem more worth it.

 18For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit. Christ was made alive by the spirit. Death was only of the flesh. We can also be made live in the spirit, and it is this spirit that will give us eternal life through Christ. Christ defeated death (which is the devil), and there is nothing Satan can do about it because his days are numbered.

 19By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison. Christ even went to the spirits in prison (after the crucifixion), so that they may have a chance at salvation.

 20Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. These were all the souls who sinned before the savior and crucifixion. This was their chance of salvation and eternal life, if they believe upon Him. "God is always fair when it comes to His children."

 21The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the purpose of baptism, not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but to have a clean conscience towards God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

 22Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. Christ being seated in His place of honor next to God, and all will be subject to Him and accept His authority. "All will be under His control at His return." Those who oppose and go against Him will be in for some real trouble.

I Peter 4

 1Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin. Arm yourself with the gospel armor (the Word of God), for Christ is that Word. This will make it easier to fight off temptation. When you suffer for Christ, even when you mess up at times, your sins are forgiven upon repentance. "Suffering for Christ is a good thing."

 2That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. It will be easier to ward off worldly desires and do the will of God. "We are in a spiritual war against good and evil."

 3For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries. There was enough in the past of following godless people who enjoy their immorality and lust, their feasting, drunkenness and wild parties, and their worship of idols. Moderation is the key here. We don't need to be dead heads and boring. God wants us to enjoy life to its fullest. "But, remember that in the flesh we are all sinners." We also have a thing called repentance. Our Heavenly Father is always ready to forgive our sins if we ask Him.

 4Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you. When you change your ways and do not participate in what your friends are doing, or no longer hang with them, they may start to talk about you. Again, moderation is the key here. You do not need to isolate yourself from people. Christ hung with all types of people, and yes even sinners like ourselves. Christ did not just hang with holier than thou people, in fact, He called most of those who thought they were so holy hypocrites. Many of the religious leaders He addressed as the sons of Satan.

 5Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. Everyone is written in the book of life. God knows your true intensions and only He will do the judging.

 6For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. That is why the Good News was preached to those who are now dead so even though they were destined to die like all people, they now have a chance of salvation to live forever with God in the Spirit.

 7But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. The end is near my friend, so be earnest in your prayers and disciplined in your studies. Knowledge is power and their is no greater knowledge than the Word of God... "There is no greater power than the Word of God, other than God Himself."

 8And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Above all, continue to show love for one another. Charity is love! (Love can cover a multitude of sins).

 9Use hospitality one to another without grudging. Make someone feel welcome in your home and be kind to others.

 10As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. God gives everyone certain spiritual gifts and we should use them to the fullest to serve others.

 11If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. If you have the gift of speaking, speak as if God were speaking through you. If you have the gift of helping others, do it with the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring Glory to God through Jesus Christ, all the Glory and power to Him forever and ever. Amen.

 12Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. Don't be surprised at trials and tribulations you are going through. When you are working for God, expect a little retaliation from the enemy which is Satan.

 13But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If you suffer for Christ, rejoice in it because this makes you partners with Christ and you will have the joy of seeing His glory when it is revealed to the world.

 14If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. If you are made fun of or insulted for being a Christian, don't let it get you down, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you. "Again, suffering for Christ is a good thing."

 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. If you suffer, however, it must not be for murder, stealing, making trouble, or prying into other peoples affairs. "This would considered suffering for Satan's ways and the ways of the world. Not a good thing, and you won't like where it leads too."

 16Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. But there is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being part of Him and the many member body of Christ.

 17For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? Judgment is near, and it begins with God's household. (We are all equal in God's eyes when doing His work). But, just think what lies for those who ignore the Word of God. "Especially those in the ministry who teach false church doctrine and traditions of men." Again, judgment begins at the pulpit!

 18And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? If the righteous are barely saved, what will happen to the godless sinners? Its a fine line between salvation or destruction in these flesh bodies; what side of the line will you be on?

 19Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. Stay in God's will and try your best to do what is right; trusting your lives to God who created you. He will never abandon or fail you, but will be with you forever.

I Peter 5

 1The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed. Peter was telling them that he was an eye witness to the sufferings of Christ and will share in Christ's glory when He is revealed to the whole world. Now I appeal to you: Warning them.

 2Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind. Feed the flock that God has has entrusted to you. Be willing and ready to teach God's Word. Do it with a ready mind and because you want to do it; not just because you will get something for doing it. Do it for God. "How many preachers do you know that teach without taking some form of compensation?" Not to many.

 3Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being examples to the flock. Don't lord it over people, but rather be an example to them. Remember that you were chosen by the Heavenly Father and given your special gift to help care for and teach His children. Teach humbly, don't think you are something special just because you have a title.

 4And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. The reward will be great at the second advent when Christ appears. "A crown of never-ending glory and honor."

 5Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Accept the authority of the elders and serve each other in humility. Remember, God opposes the proud and those who think they are better than others. "Satan prefers the proud." "God favors the humble."

 6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Humble yourself for God and He will lift you up in honor. (God exults His true Children).

 7Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Give all your worries and cares to God and He will handle it. "You don't need to handle tough times on your own."

 8Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. Stay alert and on guard. Satan prowls around like a lion just looking for someone to devour. "The proud is one of Satan's favorite snacks."

 9Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. Stand firm against him! Be strong in your faith. Your brothers and sisters in Christ are going through the same thing you are. (There is nothing new under the sun).

 10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. God called you and touched your heart to share in His eternal glory by means of Jesus Christ. After you suffer a little while (and we all do), He will restore, support and strengthen you.

 11To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. All power to Him forever! Amen, (That's that).

 12By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. I have written this letter to you with the help of Silas, who I commend to you as a faithful brother. Peters main message... "Stand strong with the Word of God."

 13The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son. The church in italics (means inserted by man). This book was open and closed speaking of the elect. (1 Peter 1:1-2). To the elect, or strangers scattered.

 14Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen. Great each other with Christian love. I personally always loved the greeting "Praise The Lord" in a greeting. My father had a saying that I also loved whenever someone thanked him for doing something. Don't thank me; thank the Lord were living. We all need to thank the Lord for what He has given us. Especially for the knowledge and wisdom of the word in the end times.

Keep The Faith,
Barton