Advice from Peter

I had a couple of appointments with some hospital executives in Denver today. It was a special opportunity to learn of their background and some of the challenges they face, and how I can provide some support to them when it comes to public policy issues.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… Now that you are obedient children of God do not live as you did in the past.”      1 Peter 1:14 NCV

As I was completing my read through 1 Peter, I took note of the various “audiences” that he addresses. Of course all that Peter addresses has application for all believers, and the verses below are just a “sampling” of Peter’s words but they are a good summary.

To the Church – “I beg you to avoid the evil things your bodies want to do that fight against your soul…Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Live as servants of God.”  (1 Peter 2:11,16 NCV) 

“…all of you should be in agreement, understanding each other, loving each other as family, being kind and humble.” (1 Peter 3:8 NCV)

“Control yourselves and be careful! The devil, your enemy, goes around like a roaring lion looking for someone to eat. Refuse to give in to him, by standing strong in your faith.”  (1 Peter 5:8,9 NCV)

To Slaves – “…yield to the authority of your masters with all respect, not only those who are good and kind, but also those who are dishonest.”  (1 Peter 2:18 NCV)

To Wives of Unbelieving Husbands –  you wives should yield to your husbands. Then, if some husbands do not obey God’s teaching, they will be persuaded to believe without anyone’s saying a word to them. (1 Peter 3:1 NCV)

To Husbands –  “…Husbands should live with your wives in an understanding way…show them respect, because God gives them the same blessing he gives you…” (1 Peter 3:7 NCV)

To Those Who Suffer – “…Do not think that something strange is happening to you. But be happy that you are sharing in Christ’s sufferings so that you will be happy and full of joy when Christ comes again in glory...So those who suffer as God wants should trust their souls to the faithful Creator as they continue to do what is right.God, who gives all grace, will make everything right. He will make you strong and support you and keep you from falling.” (1 Peter 4:13,19; 5:10 NCV)

To Elders – shepherd God’s flock, for whom you are responsible. Watch over them because you want to, not because you are forced. That is how God wants it. Do it because you are happy to serve, not because you want money.” (1 Peter 5:2 NCV)

To the Young – “…younger people should be willing to be under older people. And all of you should be very humble with each other.”   (1 Peter 5:2 NCV)

To Those Who Worry –  Give all your worries to him, because he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NCV)

When we come to Christ, the Lord call us to a new life. It impacts who we are and what we do. It impacts those who in various stages of life and who face various situations. Peter is the disciple we know that most about; he is the one who learned from his failures. As he speaks to believers who are facing persecution and shows his concern for God’s people his background and experience should help us appreciate his word and perspective. We need to remember that God’s Word is sufficient to speak to us and challenge us in our day to day lives.