Feed My Sheep: 1 & 2 Peter

Major Themes in 1 & 2 Peter

Lesson #13 for June 24, 2017

Scriptures: Isaiah 53:4-6,9; Leviticus 11:44; 16:16-19; Romans 13:1-7; 1 Corinthians 14:40; 2 Timothy 3:16-17[1].

1.    With this lesson we conclude our study of 1 & 2 Peter. In these two letters, Peter took a very practical approach to dealing with two major problems that his readers were facing: 1) Sporadic persecution taking place against Christians, and 2) The challenge of false teachers arising within the church. Peter dealt with these issues in practical, yet theologically appropriate, ways. It is interesting to note that though Peter talked about the final judgment of the wicked and the final reward of the righteous which we know will take place at the third coming of Jesus after the millennium, there is no evidence that Peter ever knew anything about the millennium or the third coming of Jesus. (See Revelation 20[2].)

2.    The Adult Sabbath School Bible Study Guide has chosen five major themes to be dealt with in this lesson:

1)    The suffering of Jesus that led to our salvation;

2)    Our practical response to the knowledge that God will judge our actions at the last judgment;

3)    The hope we have in the soon return of Jesus;

4)    Order in society and in the church; and

5)    The role Scripture has in providing guidance in our lives.

3.    Read 1 Peter 1:2,8-9,18-19; 2:22-25; 3:18[3]. Peter assured his readers that they have been chosen by God to be saved. Although they did not personally know Jesus Christ, a life of faith, trusting in His life and death, had set them free from their worthless former lives. After living a perfect life, Christ “carried our sins [Was that even before they were committed?] in His body” to the cross so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. Christ did this to lead us back to God to be partakers of the divine image. How does that work? Can sins be carried?

4.    Read Isaiah 53:4-6,9[4]. Do Christians today think that Christ’s death was “punishment sent by God”? What do these verses teach us? Why did Peter refer to them in 1 Peter 2:22-24[5]? Was Christ carrying all the sins of the world on His head or back as He was dying?

5.    In the times of the Old Testament, people took a lamb as a sin offering to the courtyard of the tabernacle and later to the temple. They confessed their sins on the head of the lamb; and then, the lamb was sacrificed; and the blood of the lamb symbolically carried their sins which were then placed on the horns of the altar of burnt offering and at its base. On the Day of Atonement, (Leviticus 16:16-19) those sins were symbolically removed, placed on the head of the scapegoat, and carried away to be eliminated from the camp of Israel.

6.    What does it mean to say that sins accumulate at the base of the altar? What does it mean to be ransomed? (See 1 Peter 1:18-19. Compare 2 Corinthians 5:21[6].)

7.    The idea that Jesus Christ died for our sins has been a most precious teaching to Christians down through the ages. Various views have been espoused regarding how this actually works. The Roman Catholic Church has taught that by paying a fee, called an indulgence, one could buy forgiveness for a sin even before one actually committed that sin. Since Jesus died almost 2000 years ago and we are still committing sins today, did Jesus, in effect, buy indulgences for our sins? Indulgences are stated to reduce one’s “time in purgatory.” In the 3rd century, an indulgence could be granted by a Christian martyr to someone who had backslidden from the church. However, there is more to salvation than just forgiveness. Salvation means healing!

8.    There is plenty of evidence in Scripture to suggest that we cannot earn our salvation by any kind of human behavior. Salvation comes only through faith in a personal Savior, Jesus Christ. Christ, in effect, becomes our Substitute.

9.    How does substitution really work? What is being substituted for what? In the larger setting of the great controversy, the life and death of Jesus proved the falseness of the accusations and claims of Satan as first recorded in Genesis 3 including Genesis 3:4[7] that God has been lying. By understanding the accusations and claims of Satan and then accepting and believing the answers which God has provided, we realize the truth and by faith develop an ever increasing trust/faith in God. We love Him and daily seek to know more about His character and government; and, thus, by beholding Him through the power of the Holy Spirit, we become changed into His image. (See GC 555.1.) Instead of sinking down ever deeper into sin, we can rise to immortal life. Thus, our salvation takes the place of our condemnation and destruction.

10.    Even though many believe otherwise, this is not something that takes place in the books of heaven completely apart from any participation or any change on our part. If God could safely remove our sins and turn us into saints without our consent or participation, He surely would have done so long ago. He would have done that to Lucifer when he first started to sin in heaven. Doesn’t God want to save everyone? (2 Peter 3:9[8]) But, He will not violate our freedom by doing that. If we were only robots, God could easily have done that.

11.    The sacrificial system of the times of the Old Testament was developed by God as a concrete way of teaching people including very primitive people that God can remove our sins and transform our lives if we cooperate. Its primary purpose was to teach the people how deadly sin is. Is it really possible to make a lamb guilty of our sins? Can sin somehow be carried in, or by, blood? That whole process was intended to teach several important lessons: 1) God should be the center of our lives, just as the tabernacle was at the center of the Israelite encampment; 2) Everything connected with God and the worship of God is holy, clean, and pure-separate from sin; 3) Our only hope of salvation is in going to God and asking for His help in making the necessary changes in our lives; 4) While we may not understand all that is involved-and the Israelites obviously did not-God will take care of things if we do our part by taking the time and making the effort to get God into the center of our lives; 5) Sin leads to death; 6) If we do not want to die of sin, we need to accept God’s plan of salvation; and 7) When we recognize the cost and seriousness of sin, we will ask for God’s help in ridding our lives of this deadly taint. Those lessons should have been learned by the Israelites from Moses.

12.    God’s gracious forgiveness was never intended to eliminate or wipe out our past record of sins just so that we can go out and do them all over again! (1 Peter 1:15-16)[9]

13.    Read 1 Peter 3:11[10]. Notice that the whole purpose of the plan of salvation is to lead us to live holy and godly lives, not just to forgive our sins without changing us!

14.    Read 1 Peter 1:15-17,22; 2:1; 3:8-9; 4:7-11[11]; and 2 Peter 3:11[12]. How do these verses relate to the idea of substitution? It is clear that we need to live holy, (Leviticus 11:44; 19:2; 1 Peter 1:15-16)[13] obedient, and loving lives if we are to see God just as Jesus said. (Matthew 5:8) What was Peter trying to teach us about the relationship between God’s judgment and our Christian behavior? First Peter 1:17 and 2 Peter 3:11 make it clear that we will be judged according to our actions. Notice that we are judged savable by God, not only because we are justified or forgiven but also because our actions are actually changed.

15.    Peter made it clear that he expected his readers to live holy lives. To be holy means to be set aside for a special purpose. For example, we might be set aside to live godly lives. (Exodus 26:34; 28:36; 29:6,37[14]) The Sabbath was set apart by God for holy purposes. (Genesis 2:3)[15] That process of being set aside for holy purposes is called sanctification.

16.    Peter made it very clear that in order to live godly and holy lives, we must rid ourselves of malice, guile, insincerity, envy, and slander. (1 Peter 2:1[16]) Furthermore, Christians should live in unity of spirit, loving other church members and being humble. (1 Peter 3:8-9[17]) In his ladder, Peter taught that Christians should also have goodness, godliness, and love. (2 Peter 1:5-7[18]) Finally, we are to cast our anxiety upon Jesus. (1 Peter 5:7[19]) Our goal is to be Christ-like. The only way to accomplish that is to be constantly focused on His life so that the Holy Spirit can transform us to become more like Him. Does that process end on this earth? Or, will we continue to grow more and more like God throughout eternity?

17.    What did Peter say about the second coming of Jesus? Read 1 Peter 1:4,17; 4:5-6,17; 2 Peter 3:1-10[20]. Peter assured his readers that God has great blessings stored in heaven for their benefit. If they come to feel comfortable in calling God their Father, they will learn to live as God lives, following His instructions. Peter reminded them-and us-that God will judge everyone; therefore, we must get prepared. And then, he spelled out what will happen to the wicked. However, Peter recognized that this message would not be received readily by all. Skeptics and scoffers will deny God’s existence and His ability to intervene in the events on this earth. But, ultimately, evil will be totally destroyed.

18.    Read 1 Peter 1:4[21]. Peter recognized that some-perhaps many-of his initial readers would suffer one or more kinds of discrimination or even persecution. But, he reminded them that Jesus has proven that even death in this world is not the end. In other words, even if one is killed, his future reward awaits and is an eternal life with God in heaven.

19.    Peter wrote several times about the judgment and how it might impact us. (See 1 Peter 1:17; 1 Peter 4:5, 6,17[22]. Compare Ezekiel 9.) And then, he went on to say that the wicked and the godless will be destroyed in a world-wide firestorm. (2 Peter 3:7[23])

20.    Peter recognized that all Christians who are serious about their religion are hoping that the second coming of Jesus will be soon. But, he recognized that delays may and will come. (2 Peter 3:1-10[24]) The reason for these delays is clearly not because God’s plan has failed. Instead, the reason for the delay is because He is waiting for as many as possible to be saved. The only other option for those currently not ready is eternal destruction. But, if new babies are constantly being born, won’t there always be more people to be saved?

21.    Read 1 Peter 2:11-21; 5:1-5 [25]. Peter recognized that there must be order in society and in the church. He challenged his readers to respect all forms of authority since they are genuinely in charge. (Compare Romans 13:1-7[26].) We must serve and be obedient to those in charge; that will demonstrate clearly that we want to be good people and good citizens. We must be humble and serve one another if we are to be rewarded ultimately.

22.    We recognize that there have been times down through history when certain governments have been truly evil. However, it is generally true that good governments serve the purposes of God by preserving law and order and safety in society.

23.    Do you think that Peter would agree with Paul in suggesting that good order is needed within the church as well? Do our church leaders recognize the real needs of their congregations? Are they being the humble, servant-leaders for which God calls? None of us has anything of which we can boast. Any good that abides in us came from God. So, we should always be humble as we stand and serve among God’s other children.

24.    Repeatedly, Peter mentioned the absolute primacy of Bible study for our instruction. Read 1 Peter 1:10-12; 2 Peter 1:16-20; 3:2,16[27]. In these remarkable verses, we are reminded that the ancient prophets wrote largely for our benefit. They wrote things that even the angels want to understand better. These ideas were not made up by human beings; instead, God spoke through the Holy Spirit to His prophets. In order to best understand these messages, we need to study them together with our friends and fellow believers. Peter went on to suggest that the writings of the holy prophets of the Old Testament were then being joined by messages from the apostles-which would form the New Testament. However, Peter recognized that while people like Paul wrote serious and challenging messages, there will always be people who want to twist and misconstrue them to their own destruction. But, we need to recognize that those words, if understood correctly, are the words of God.

25.    Where would we be without the teachings of the Old Testament and the New Testament? We are especially indebted to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John for what they reveal about the life and death of Jesus Christ-God.

26.    We need to recognize that our only hope of salvation is an understanding of the Word of God as presented in Scripture. We must read it prayerfully and carefully in the context of the local passage or chapter, the larger context of the book itself, and then the entire Bible itself including its basic theme of the great controversy over God’s character and government. We need to ask ourselves what it was that the Bible writer was trying to say to his historical readers. What kinds of circumstances were affecting their lives? Then, we need to ask ourselves how those lessons from long ago can apply to our own lives today. What is it that God wants to teach us? Are we willing to surrender our pet theories to the truths as presented in the Bible with the aid of the Spirit of Prophecy?

27.    So, we see that Peter recognized that those who will be saved in the kingdom need to learn of Jesus through the Scriptures and learn to live holy and godly lives. We need not only to know the truth but also to live it. Obedience, purity of heart, and love-especially for our fellow believers-are required if we want to live in the kingdom of God. Imagine how it would impact the church if each member were honestly and faithfully pursuing that goal.

28.    In speaking to the General Conference Session in April, 1891, Ellen White said:

Brethren, will you carry the spirit of Christ with you as you return to your homes and churches? Will you put away unbelief and criticism? We are coming to a time when, more than ever before, we shall need to press together, to labor unitedly. In union there is strength. In discord and disunion there is only weakness.—Ellen G. White, General Conference Daily Bulletin,* April 13, 1891, par. 27; Selected Messages,* book 2, 373.4-374.0.

29.    Second Peter 3:12[28] contains one of the challenging ideas which has stirred a lot of controversy down through the ages. If God knows the end from the beginning, doesn’t He already know when everything will happen? If so, then how can we possibly hasten the coming of the day of God? The Bible and Ellen White spoke repeatedly about the delay. If there is a delay, there must also be the possibility of hastening the Lord’s coming. If we stop delaying the second coming, would we not be hastening it? We need to wake up and welcome the Bridegroom. (Matthew 25:1-13)

30.    Serious Christians believe that nature is God’s second book. Unfortunately, we know that modern-day skeptics, evolutionists, and some scientists have interpreted things they see and understand from nature in ways to do their best to eliminate God from the picture. Is it clear that the writings of the Bible clearly and simply apply to our understanding of nature? If properly understood, God’s two Books are in full agreement. But, that agreement can get essentially destroyed when one book is set aside while trying to understand the other. Christians should never allow that to happen. We need to recognize that for evolutionists and atheists, their beliefs are their religion. They want us to believe that they have science and that we have religion; but, we should never yield that point or allow them to convince us of that position. They have their religion, and we have our religion; those two need to be compared. They have their scientific facts, and those are the same scientific facts that we have; the differences are in the interpretation of those facts.

31.    So, what have you learned from our study of 1 and 2 Peter? How does your understanding of the theological issues as presented in these two letters compare with your understanding of theology from the rest of the New Testament and the entire Bible? Peter warned us very bluntly to be aware of deceptions that will come especially in the last days. When reading 1 & 2 Peter together, we recognize the centrality of Jesus Christ. Martin Luther was ready to say that about 1 Peter; but, he did not think that about 2 Peter. Why do you think that was?

32.    Does reading 1 & 2 Peter give you hope? Or, fear? Peter reminded us that God has a longterm, in fact, eternal plan for every one of His children. We are the only ones that can by exercising our freedom disqualify ourselves from being a part of that plan. In light of God’s future judgment, we are all called to live holy and godly lives.

33.    Read 2 Peter 1:2-4,12-15[29] once again. Is there anything necessary for our faith and our salvation that God has not provided? Is it really possible for us to participate in the divine nature? How is that possible? God’s method of preparing us for salvation is by having a knowledge of the life and death of Jesus Christ and all that it implies about God’s character and government. Day by day, we are to grow in our knowledge of Jesus Christ. In light of these facts, Peter did his best to make it possible for us to know, trust in, and have faith based on the story of Jesus. Remember that the Gospel of Mark is really Peter’s Gospel. (Compare 1 Peter 5:13 and 2 Peter 1:15[30].)

34.    Read 1 Peter 1:18-19; 2:22-25; and 3:18. Peter talked about our redemption, a “price that was paid” for our salvation. What does that mean? Is someone demanding that a price be paid? If so, what was the price? To whom was it paid? How was it paid? Was it the Father who demanded that a price be paid before He would agree to save mankind? (See John 3:16.) Was the price paid to Satan to somehow buy us back?

35.    God needed to demonstrate once and for all eternity the serious, in fact, deadly consequences of sin because it separates us from the only Source of life. Jesus died not only the first death by giving up His human life on the cross, but also He died that terrible second death that results from separation from God. (Matthew 27:46[31]) That death is the one that the wicked will die in the end. (See Desire of Ages 753.1-3; 1T 124.1; 2T 210.1; Mar 271.3.) We need to see and understand how serious that death is so we can avoid it at all costs.

36.    Was it really necessary for Jesus to come and live and die in order for us to be saved? Did it need to be Jesus Himself? Or, could an angel have done the job?

37.    The questions that had been raised by Lucifer/Satan were about God and how He governs.

The questions were not about angels or human beings; they were about God. So, only God could answer those questions. And it was not enough just to make a statement about His character and His government; the truth had to be demonstrated absolutely convincingly so that it could not be questioned again for the rest of eternity. The life and death of Jesus Christ, Himself God in the flesh, did just that. Only One who was God and, thus, had the power of life and death within Himself could say:

“No one takes my life away from me. I give it up of my own free will. I have the right to give it up, and I have the right to take it back. This is what my Father has commanded me to do.”—American Bible Society. (1992). The Holy Bible: The Good News Translation* (2nd edition, John 10:18). New York: American Bible Society.

38.    Jesus could die and by exercising His divine power come back to life when His Father called Him. (DA 785.2) No one else, and that includes Satan, could do that.

39.    Peter spoke extensively about what our response should be to all that God has done. Read 1 Peter 1:13-17; 2:1-2,11-12; 3:8-9; 4:7-11; and 2 Peter 3:11,14[32]. In light of all that God has said through the prophets and apostles and done in the life and death of Jesus Christ, we should be delighted to have the privilege of living holy and righteous lives according to God’s directions.

40.    How would you describe the hope of our salvation? Read 1 Peter 1:3-9,13; 5:4; and 2 Peter 3:3-14[33]. There is no doubt that the rewards that await those who believe and trust in God are “out of this world!” Our hope for an eternal inheritance will never perish. God is choosing to wait until every person who will choose to be on His side is prepared for the cataclysm that is coming. He is waiting for us to become serious about the necessary preparation. God knows and He tells us that the world as we know it with its surrounding heavens-our atmosphere-will disappear in a roaring inferno that will destroy this sinful blot in God’s universe.

41.    So, what is delaying that day? Read Matthew 24:14[34]. Are we doing our job? Are our churches orderly and well-organized to finish the gospel in their areas? Do the members take Scripture really seriously? Or, do we allow new ideas and new theories to arise that challenge some ideas from Scripture? For more information, see the handout: “What Is the Reason for the Delay [of the Second Coming of Jesus]?” on www.Theox.org as filed under Teacher’s Guides, then the subsection General Topics.

42.    Peter clearly mixed theological instruction with practical admonition. Do we understand the relationship between those two factors?

43.    Could you summarize in your own mind what we have learned from 1 & 2 Peter? Could you explain it to someone else? What role does Scripture play in your personal, spiritual life? Do you love to study the life and death of Jesus more than you love watching television or a movie? Do you look forward to the final events in this world’s history with fear? Or, with longing? Could we fear the last plagues and still look forward to the second coming?

44.    Theological instruction is given for a reason. It is intended to lead to a change in our behavior. Has that worked for you during these three months of studying 1 & 2 Peter?

© 2017, Kenneth Hart, MD, MA, MPH. Permission is hereby granted for any noncommercial use of these materials. Free distribution of all or of a portion of this material such as to a Bible study class is encouraged. *Electronic version.    Info@theox.org

1-Isaiah 53:4-6 AKJV Surely he has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was on him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:9 AKJV And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.

Leviticus 11:44 AKJV For I am the LORD your God: you shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall you defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creeps on the earth.

Leviticus 16:16-19 AKJV And he shall make an atonement for the holy place, because of the uncleanness of the children of Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins: and so shall he do for the tabernacle of the congregation, that remains among them in the middle of their uncleanness. 17 And there shall be no man in the tabernacle of the congregation when he goes in to make an atonement in the holy place, until he come out, and have made an atonement for himself, and for his household, and for all the congregation of Israel. 18 And he shall go out to the altar that is before the LORD, and make an atonement for it; and shall take of the blood of the bullock, and of the blood of the goat, and put it on the horns of the altar round about. 19 And he shall sprinkle of the blood on it with his finger seven times, and cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.

Romans 13:1-7 AKJV Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whoever therefore resists the power, resists the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Will you then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath on him that does evil. 5 Why you must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay you tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually on this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

1 Corinthians 14:40 AKJV Let all things be done decently and in order.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 AKJV All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished to all good works.

2-Revelation 20:1-15 AKJV And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2 And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, 3 And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. 4 And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was given to them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark on their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that has part in the first resurrection: on such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. 7 And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, 8 And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog, and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. 9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. 10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire

3-1 Peter 1:2 AKJV Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, to obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you, and peace, be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:8-9 AKJV Whom having not seen, you love; in whom, though now you see him not, yet believing, you rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

1 Peter 1:18-19 AKJV For as much as you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

1 Peter 2:22-25 AKJV Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judges righteously: 24 Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live to righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed. 25 For you were as sheep going astray; but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

1 Peter 3:18 AKJV For Christ also has 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:

1 Peter 2:22-24 AKJV Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judges righteously: 24 Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live to righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed.

4-Isaiah 53:4-6 AKJV Surely he has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. 5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was on him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:9 AKJV And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.

5-1 Peter 2:22-25 AKJV Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judges righteously: 24 Who his own self bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live to righteousness: by whose stripes you were healed. 25 For you were as sheep going astray; but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

6-1Pe 1:18 For you know what was paid to set you free from the worthless manner of life handed down by your ancestors. It was not something that can be destroyed, such as silver or gold;

1Pe 1:19 it was the costly sacrifice of Christ, who was like a lamb without defect or flaw. 2Co 5:21 Christ was without sin, but for our sake God made him share our sin in order that in union with him we might share the righteousness of God.

7-Genesis 3:4 AKJV And the serpent said to the woman, You shall not surely die

8-2 Peter 3:9 AKJV The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

9-1 Peter 1:15-16 AKJV But as he which has called you is holy, so be you holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be you holy; for I am holy

10-1 Peter 3:11 AKJV Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

11-1 Peter 1:15-16 AKJV But as he which has called you is holy, so be you holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be you holy; for I am holy.

1 Peter 3:11 AKJV Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.

1 Peter 1:15-17 AKJV But as he which has called you is holy, so be you holy in all manner of conversation; 16 Because it is written, Be you holy; for I am holy. 17 And if you call on the Father, who without respect of persons judges according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:

1 Peter 1:22 AKJV Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit to unfeigned love of the brothers, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently:

1 Peter 2:1 AKJV Why laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, all evil speakings,

1 Peter 3:8-9 AKJV Finally, be you all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brothers, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that you are thereunto called, that you should inherit a blessing.

1 Peter 4:7-11 AKJV But the end of all things is at hand: be you therefore sober, and watch to prayer. 8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 10 As every man has received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If 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 gives: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

12-2 Peter 3:11 AKJV Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in all holy conversation and godliness

13-Leviticus 11:44 AKJV For I am the LORD your God: you shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall you defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creeps on the earth

14-Exodus 26:34 AKJV And you shall put the mercy seat on the ark of the testimony in the most holy place.

Exodus 28:36 AKJV And you shall make a plate of pure gold, and grave on it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

Exodus 29:6 AKJV And you shall put the turban on his head, and put the holy crown on the turban.

Exodus 29:37 AKJV Seven days you shall make an atonement for the altar, and sanctify it; and it shall be an altar most holy: whatever touches the altar shall be holy.

15-Genesis 2:3 ESV So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.

16-1 Peter 2:1 ESV So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.

17-1 Peter 3:8 ESV Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

1 Peter 3:9 ESV Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

18-2 Peter 1:5 ESV For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge,

2 Peter 1:6 ESV and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness,

2 Peter 1:7 ESV and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.

19-1 Peter 5:7 ESV casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you

20-2 Peter 3:1 ESV This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder,

2 Peter 3:2 ESV that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles,

2 Peter 3:3 ESV knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires.

2 Peter 3:4 ESV They will say, "Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation."

2 Peter 3:5 ESV For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God,

2 Peter 3:6 ESV and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished.

2 Peter 3:7 ESV But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.

2 Peter 3:8 ESV But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.

2 Peter 3:9 ESV The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

2 Peter 3:10 ESV But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.

21-1 Peter 1:4 ESV to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you,

22-

23-2 Peter 3:7 ESV But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly.

24-2 Peter 3:1-10 ESV This is now the second letter that I am writing to you, beloved. In both of them I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, 2 that you should remember the predictions of the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles, 3 knowing this first of all, that scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing, following their own sinful desires. 4 They will say, "Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation." 5 For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God, 6 and that by means of these the world that then existed was deluged with water and perished. 7 But by the same word the heavens and earth that now exist are stored up for fire, being kept until the day of judgment and destruction of the ungodly. 8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.

25-1 Peter 2:11-21 ESV Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. 12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. 13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor. 18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.

26-Romans 13:1-7 AKJV Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whoever therefore resists the power, resists the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Will you then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath on him that does evil. 5 Why you must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. 6 For for this cause pay you tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually on this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

27-1 Peter 1:10-12 AKJV Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come to you: 11 Searching 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. 12 To whom it was revealed, that not to themselves, but to us they did minister the things, which are now reported to you by them that have preached the gospel to you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.

2 Peter 1:16-20 AKJV For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto you do well that you take heed, as to a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

2 Peter 3:2 AKJV That you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Savior:

2 Peter 3:16 AKJV As also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, to their own destruction.

28-2 Peter 3:12 FBV waiting expectantly and being eager for the coming of the day of God. That day the heavens will catch fire and be destroyed, and the elements will melt in the heat.

29-2 Peter 1:2-4 FBV May you have ever more grace and peace as you grow in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 Through his divine power we have been given everything that’s important to live a God-centered life. This comes through knowing him who called us to himself by his own glory and goodness.

In this way he’s given us wonderful, priceless promises. 4 Through these promises you can share in the divine nature, being rid of the corruption caused by this world’s evil desires.

2 Peter 1:12-15 FBV That’s why I always remind you about these things, even though you know them already, and you stand firm in the truth that you possess. 13 But I still think it’s a good idea to encourage you by giving you reminders while I live. 14 I know the time when I shall leave this life will be coming soon— our Lord Jesus Christ has made this clear to me. 15 I will do my best so that when I’m gone you will always be able to remember these things.

30-1 Peter 5:13 FBV The believers here in “Babylon,” chosen together with you, send their greetings to you, as does Mark, my son.

2 Peter 1:15 FBV I will do my best so that when I’m gone you will always be able to remember these things.

31-Matthew 27:46 FBV At about three o’clock Jesus shouted out loud, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

32-1 Peter 1:13-17 FBV Make sure your minds are in gear. Be clear-headed. Fix your hope exclusively on the grace you’ll be given when Jesus is revealed. 14 Live like children that do what they’re told. Don’t allow yourselves to be shaped by your former sinful desires when you didn’t know any better. 15 Now you need to be holy in everything you do, just as the One who called you is holy. 16 As Scripture says, “You are to be holy, for I am holy.” 17 Since you call him Father, and recognize he judges everyone impartially based on what they do, take your time here on earth seriously, respecting him.

1 Peter 2:1-2 FBV So give up all the evil things that you do: all your dishonesty, hypocrisy, and jealousy, all the ways you speak badly about others. 2 You should become like newborn babies who only want pure spiritual milk, so you can grow in salvation

1 Peter 2:11-12 FBV My friends, I’m pleading with you as foreigners and strangers in this world not to give in to physical desires that are in conflict with what is spiritual. 12 Be sure to act appropriately when you’re with non-Christians, so even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see the good things you do and glorify God when he comes.

1 Peter 3:8-9 FBV Finally, you should all have the same attitude. Be sympathetic and love each other. Be compassionate, and humble. 9 Don’t pay back evil for evil, or retaliate when you’re abused, instead you should give a blessing—because that’s what you were called to do, so you could gain a blessing yourself.

1 Peter 4:7-11 FBV Everything is coming to an end! So think clearly and stay alert when you pray. 8 Most of all, you should love one another very deeply, for love covers many of the wrong things people do. 9 Show hospitality to each another, and don’t complain. 10 Whatever gift you’ve been given, share it with others among you, as people who wisely demonstrate God’s grace in all its different forms. 11 Anyone who speaks should do so as though God is speaking through them. Anyone who wants to help others should do so through the strength that God gives, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. May glory and power be his forever and ever. Amen.

2 Peter 3:11 FBV Since everything is going to be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? You should be living lives that are pure, dedicated to God,

2 Peter 3:14 FBV So, my friends, since you’re anticipating these things, make sure you’ll be found pure and blameless, and at peace with God.

33-1 Peter 1:3-9 FBV Praise God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Through his great mercy we have been born again and given a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 4 This inheritance is eternal, it never spoils or fades, and it is kept safe in heaven for you. 5 Through your trust in him, God will protect you by his power until salvation arrives—the salvation that is ready to be revealed at the last day. 6 So be happy about this, even though you may be sad for a short while as you endure various trials. 7 These prove that your trust in God is genuine, just as fire is used to prove if gold is genuine—even though that too can be destroyed—and your faith is more valuable than gold! In this way your trust in God will be recognized and you will receive praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ appears. 8 You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you cannot see him now, you trust in him and you’re filled with wonderful, indescribable happiness. 9 Your reward for trusting in him is that you will be saved!

1 Peter 1:13 FBV Make sure your minds are in gear. Be clear-headed. Fix your hope exclusively on the grace you’ll be given when Jesus is revealed.

1 Peter 5:4 FBV When the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive a glorious crown that will never fade.

1 Peter 2:1-25 FBV So give up all the evil things that you do: all your dishonesty, hypocrisy, and jealousy, all the ways you speak badly about others. 2 You should become like newborn babies who only want pure spiritual milk, so you can grow in salvation 3 now you’ve tasted how good the Lord really is. 4 As you come to him—the living stone that people rejected as useless, but is chosen by God and precious to him—you also become like living stones, being built into a spiritual house. You are a holy priesthood that offers spiritual sacrifices that God welcomes through Jesus Christ. 5 As Scripture says, “See! I’m setting in Zion its main cornerstone, specially-chosen and valuable. Whoever trusts in him will not be disappointed.” 6 He is very valuable to you who do trust. But for those who don’t, “The stone the builders rejected that became the main cornerstone” 7 is “The stone that trips you up and the rock that makes you fall.” People stumble over this message because they refuse to accept it—which for them is entirely predictable. 8 In complete contrast, you are a specially-chosen family, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. Consequently you can reveal the wonderful things he’s done, calling you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 9 In the past you were nobodies, but now you are God’s people. In the past you hadn’t received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 10 My friends, I’m pleading with you as foreigners and strangers in this world not to give in to physical desires that are in conflict with what is spiritual. 11 Be sure to act appropriately when you’re with non-Christians, so even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see the good things you do and glorify God when he comes. 12 Obey human authority for the Lord’s sake, whether it is the king as the highest authority, 13 or governors that God appoints to punish those who do evil and to commend those who do good. 14 God wants you by doing what is right to silence the ignorant accusations of foolish people. 15 Yes, you are free people! So don’t use your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but live as God’s servants. 16 Respect everyone. Show your love to the community of believers. Have reverence for God. Respect the king. 17 If you are a servant then submit to your master—not just those who are good and kind, but those who are harsh masters as well. 18 For this is what grace is: to endure life’s pain and unfair suffering, keeping your focus on God. 19 However there’s no credit when you’re punished for doing something wrong. But if you suffer for doing what is right, and you put up with it, then God’s grace is with you. 20 In fact this is what you were called to do, because Christ suffered for you and gave you an example, so you should follow in his footsteps. 21 He never sinned, he never lied; 22 and when he was badly treated, he didn’t retaliate. When he suffered, he didn’t threaten to take revenge. He simply placed himself in the hands of the one who always judges rightly. 23 He took our sins on himself in his body on the cross, so that we could die to sin and live rightly. “By his wounds you are healed.” 24 At one time you were like sheep who had lost their way, but now you’ve returned to the Shepherd—the one who watches over you.

34-Matthew 24:14 FBV The good news of the kingdom will be proclaimed around the whole world so everyone will be able to hear it, and then the end will come.

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