CHOSEN FOR A PURPOSE

Verse 2c - To be obedient to Jesus.

Peter reminds his readers of the reason for their election. Obedience to Jesus is paramount and must be the by-product of our Salvation. In Matt 28:18-20, Jesus’ instruction is: “Teaching them to obey everything I have commanded”. Right through Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, we can track the theme of obedience in contrast to the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. All the Epistles are written to encourage believers to obey in some area of their life. Jesus ends His sermon on the mount with “Not everyone who says Lord, Lord.” (Matt 7:21). So, let us not treat our election lightly. Our election is not fire-insurance; we have been saved for a purpose.

Verse 2c - Sprinkled by His blood!!

We have been chosen according to the Father’s foreknowledge and saved through the sacrifice of Jesus: washed clean/sanctified. Peter reminds his readers that their election has come at a huge cost, i.e., the Savior’s death. None of us could save ourselves. Only the Saviour’s blood could purify us from our sins. It was only 30 years ago that the event of the crucifixion took place since the writing of this letter. Memories can fade if we have not personally witnessed an event or obtained second-hand knowledge. Also, by 60 A.D., people were questioning the crucifixion and resurrection.

‘Sprinkle by His blood’ is a phrase from the Old Testament where the altar was sprinkled with blood (Ex 24:3-8, Rom 1:5, Heb 9:18-23, 12:24). The blood sprinkled on the altar represented God’s agreement to reveal His law, and the blood sprinkled on the people signified their consent to obey. This is powerful.

In the New Covenant, Jesus sprinkles His blood in the covenant of redemption and forgiveness. Our response is to obey His Word.

Reflections

• Do you understand the purpose for which you have been saved?
• What areas of your life are being challenged to obedience to Jesus?