Are you living as someone who has been redeemed by Christ?
1 Peter 1:17-25 reminds us of the high cost of our redemption. We were not saved by perishable things like silver or gold, but by the precious blood of Jesus. Because of this, we are called to live in reverence, holiness, and love, reflecting the new life we have received through Him.
Key Verse:
“For you have been born again not of seed which is perishable, but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.” – 1 Peter 1:23 (NASB)
Background Context:
Peter continues his encouragement to believers facing trials, reminding them that they are strangers in this world, redeemed by Christ’s sacrifice, and called to live in holiness. He points to the eternal nature of God’s Word as the foundation of our faith, contrasting it with the temporary things of this world. This passage challenges us to live as those who truly belong to God, reflecting His character in how we live and love.
(Continued and expanded after scripture.)
17If you address as Father the One who impartially judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay on earth; 18knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, 19but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. 20For He was foreknown before the foundation of the world, but has appeared in these last times for the sake of you 21who through Him are believers in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
22Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, 23for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.
24For,
“ALL FLESH IS LIKE GRASS,
AND ALL ITS GLORY LIKE THE FLOWER OF GRASS.
THE GRASS WITHERS,
AND THE FLOWER FALLS OFF,
25BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER.”
And this is the word which was preached to you.
Reflection on 1 Peter 1:17-25:
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Live in Reverence Before God:
Peter reminds us that we call on a holy and just Father who judges impartially (1 Peter 1:17). Our lives should reflect a deep reverence for Him, not taking His grace for granted. Do you live with a mindset of honoring God in all you do? -
Redeemed at a Great Cost:
We were not ransomed by material wealth, but by the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). This is the greatest gift ever given. Do you live with gratitude for the sacrifice that secured your salvation? -
Faith and Hope Are in God Alone:
Jesus was revealed for our sake, so that through Him, our faith and hope would be firmly placed in God (1 Peter 1:20-21). Do you trust fully in Him, or are you relying on temporary things for security? -
Love One Another Deeply:
As those purified by obedience to the truth, we are called to love each other with a sincere and fervent heart (1 Peter 1:22). Does your life reflect God’s love toward others? -
Born Again Through the Word of God:
Our new life is not based on something perishable but on the eternal, living Word of God (1 Peter 1:23-25). The things of this world will fade, but God’s truth remains forever. Are you building your life on His Word?
Summary Key Points:
- Live in reverence before God: He is holy and just, and we should honor Him with our lives.
- Your redemption came at a great price: Jesus’ blood paid for your salvation.
- Place your faith and hope in God alone: Nothing in this world can compare.
- Love one another deeply: True faith is reflected in sincere love for others.
- God’s Word endures forever: Build your life on His eternal truth.
Application:
Reflect on the high cost of your salvation and let it transform how you live. Walk in reverence before God, love others deeply, and build your life on the enduring truth of His Word.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for redeeming me through the precious blood of Jesus. Help me to live in reverence before You, placing my faith and hope in You alone. Teach me to love others sincerely and to build my life on Your eternal Word. May my life reflect the gratitude and holiness You have called me to. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.