1 Peter - Following Jesus Sample

Peter writes with his mind full of Old Testament scriptures. We read a section of these scriptures today. The prophet Isaiah foretells the coming of Jesus. He describes him as a servant who would suffer unjustly at the hands of others.

Peter has been addressing Christian slaves or servants who also suffer unjustly. They are to follow the example of Jesus, the suffering servant, and not hurl insults back at those who harm them. But Jesus’ suffering does not just give us an example to follow; Peter has already told his readers that ‘Christ suffered for you’ (1 Pet. 2:21, my italics).

Much of Peter’s understanding of Jesus’ death and resurrection seems to flow from Isaiah’s prophecy. Peter sees the person and work of Jesus reflected very clearly in Isaiah’s words. Isaiah speaks about God’s ‘righteous servant’ who was without sin (Is. 53:11) and without ‘deceit’ (v. 9); Peter recognises that this is Jesus (1 Pet. 2:22). This perfect, sinless servant of God suffered unjustly, but he did not retaliate (v. 7).

• God’s suffering servant was righteous. But what does Isaiah say about all of us (v. 6)?

When we look in the mirror, we may look quite respectable, but really we are just like wilful sheep. We have gone miles off the path of righteousness.

Each of us has deliberately turned away to follow our own sinful desires. The reality is that we are far from home and in great danger.

• But the suffering of God’s righteous servant brings us hope. Why did this servant suffer (vv. 5–6, 11–12)?

These verses speak of a wonderful exchange. The Lord laid on this righteous servant the sin of us all. Jesus bore the sin and iniquity of many. He took the punishment our sins deserved. And we, the sinful ones, received peace with God. Our broken relationship with God was restored.

As for God’s righteous servant, after he had suffered, he would ‘see the light of life’ (v. 11). Suffering now, glory to follow – we have seen this pattern many times now!

Take some time to reflect on Jesus’ suffering for you. We need to stand back in awe and wonder at God’s gracious plan of salvation, foretold in such detail so many centuries before. Tomorrow we will look at how Peter uses Isaiah’s words to help us understand more.

Pray

Thank God that Jesus was willing to suffer for your sins to bring you peace.