1 Peter - Following Jesus Sample

As you think about the future, what are you hoping for? We mark special days on our calendars. We look forward to them. We make plans. We hope everything will go well.

Sometimes it does. Sometimes it doesn’t. We think we are in control, but really the idea that we can control the future is a mirage. Is there anything we can be sure of?

Peter’s word to us here is a resounding yes! Peter looks into the future of these Christians and sees something that is absolutely certain. It is certain for you too if you are trusting Christ. God has given believers new birth into an inheritance.

• What reassuring facts does Peter tell us about our inheritance (v. 4)?

Peter tells us that our inheritance is being ‘kept’ for us. We can’t see our inheritance now but it is real and nothing can spoil it. God is keeping it safe for us in heaven. God has a rich future planned for us that nothing can touch.

• Our inheritance is being kept safe for us. But what else is being kept safe according to verse 5, and how?

Our inheritance is safe, but are we safe? Peter reassures his Christian readers. They are being ‘shielded by God’s power’ until God’s great salvation is revealed on the last day.

This does not mean God will shield Christians from all suffering now, but God will save them. On judgment day believers will be saved from the punishment their sins deserve. On that day, the full extent of God’s anger against sin and the full wonder of Jesus’ salvation will be clear to everyone. That great salvation is sorted and certain. It will be unveiled on the last day. As Peter says, it ‘is ready to be revealed in the last time’ (v. 5).

How does God keep us safe for that great day? God keeps us safe by keeping us trusting Jesus. If you have your faith in Jesus today, it is a sign. It shows that God is keeping you safe spiritually. On the last day, you won’t miss out. You will receive the great salvation God has planned for you. You will receive that inheritance which can never perish, spoil or fade. Praise God!

Pray

Thank God that he is keeping your inheritance safe for you, and you safe for it, as you keep trusting Christ.