1 Peter 1:2
Verse
Context
A Greeting from Peter
1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the elect who are exiles of the Dispersion throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, chosen 2according to the foreknowledge of God the Father and sanctified by the Spirit for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.
Sermons
Dan Augsburger
Jim Cymbala
Dwight Pentecost
Gerhard Du ToitSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Elect according to the foreknowledge of God - If the apostle had directed his letter to persons elected to eternal life, no one, as Drs. Lardner and Macknight properly argue, could have received such a letter, because no one could have been sure of his election in this way till he had arrived in heaven. But the persons to whom the apostle wrote were all, with propriety, said to be elect according to the foreknowledge of God; because, agreeably to the original purpose of God, discovered in the prophetical writings, Jews and Gentiles, indiscriminately, were called to be the visible Church, and entitled to all the privileges of the people of God, on their believing the Gospel. In this sense the word elected is used in other places of Scripture; see Th1 1:4, and the note there. The Rev. J. Wesley has an excellent note on this passage, which I shall transcribe for the benefit of those of my readers who may not have his works at hand. "Strictly speaking, there is no foreknowledge, no more than afterknowledge, with God; but all things are known to him as present, from eternity to eternity. Election, in the scriptural sense, is God's doing any thing that our merit or power has no part in. The true predestination or foreappointment of God is, 1. He that believeth shall be saved from the guilt and power of sin. 2. He that endureth to the end shall be saved eternally. 3. They who receive the precious gift of faith thereby become the sons of God; and, being sons, they shall receive the Spirit of holiness, to walk as Christ also walked. Throughout every part of this appointment of God, promise and duty go hand in hand. All is free gift; and yet, such is the gift, that it depends in the final issue on our future obedience to the heavenly call. But other predestination than this, either to life or death eternal, the Scripture knows not of: moreover, 1. It is cruel respect of persons; an unjust regard of one, and an unjust disregard of another: it is mere creature partiality, and not infinite justice. 2. It is not plain Scripture doctrine, (if true), but rather inconsistent with the express written word that speaks of God's universal offers of grace; his invitations, promises, threatenings, being all general. 3. We are bid to choose life, and reprehended for not doing it. 4. It is inconsistent with a state of probation in those that must be saved, or must be lost. 5. It is of fatal consequence; all men being ready, on very slight grounds, to fancy themselves of the elect number. But the doctrine of predestination is entirely changed from what it formerly was: now it implies neither faith, peace, nor purity; it is something that will do without them all. Faith is no longer, according to the modern predestination scheme, a Divine evidence of things not seen wrought in the soul by the immediate power of the Holy Ghost; not an evidence at all, but a mere notion: neither is faith made any longer a means of holiness, but something that will do without it. Christ is no more a Savior from sin, but a defense and a countenancer of it. He is no more a fountain of spiritual life in the souls of believers, but leaves his elect inwardly dry, and outwardly unfruitful; and is made little more than a refuge from the image of the heavenly, even from righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." Through sanctification of the Spirit - through the renewing and purifying influences of his Spirit on their souls, unto obedience - to engage and enable them to yield themselves up to all holy obedience, the foundation of all which is the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ - the atoning blood of Jesus Christ which was typified by the sprinkling of the blood of sacrifices under the law, in allusion to which it is called the blood of sprinkling.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
foreknowledge--foreordaining love (Pe1 1:20), inseparable from God's foreknowledge, the origin from which, and pattern according to which, election takes place. Act 2:23, and Rom 11:2, prove "foreknowledge" to be foreordination. God's foreknowledge is not the perception of any ground of action out of Himself; still in it liberty is comprehended, and all absolute constraint debarred [ANSELM in STEIGER]. For so the Son of God was "foreknown" (so the Greek for "foreordained," Pe1 1:20) to be the sacrificial Lamb, not against, or without His will, but His will rested in the will of the Father; this includes self-conscious action; nay, even cheerful acquiescense. The Hebrew and Greek "know" include approval and acknowledging as one's own. The Hebrew marks the oneness of loving and choosing, by having one word for both, bachar (Greek, "hairetizo," Septuagint). Peter descends from the eternal "election" of God through the new birth, to the believer's "sanctification," that from this he might again raise them through the consideration of their new birth to a "living hope" of the heavenly "inheritance" [HEIDEGGER]. The divine three are introduced in their respective functions in redemption. through--Greek, "in"; the element in which we are elected. The "election" of God realized and manifested itself "IN" their sanctification. Believers are "sanctified through the offering of Christ once for all" (Heb 10:10). "Thou must believe and know that thou art holy; not, however, through thine own piety, but through the blood of Christ" [LUTHER]. This is the true sanctification of the Spirit, to obey the Gospel, to trust in Christ [BULLINGER]. sanctification--the Spirit's setting apart of the saint as consecrated to God. The execution of God's choice (Gal 1:4). God the Father gives us salvation by gratuitous election; the Son earns it by His blood-shedding; the Holy Spirit applies the merit of the Son to the soul by the Gospel word [CALVIN]. Compare Num 6:24-26, the Old Testament triple blessing. unto obedience--the result or end aimed at by God as respects us, the obedience which consists in faith, and that which flows from faith; "obeying the truth through the Spirit" (Pe1 1:22). Rom 1:5, "obedience to the faith," and obedience the fruit of faith. sprinkling, &c.--not in justification through the atonement once for all, which is expressed in the previous clauses, but (as the order proves) the daily being sprinkled by Christ's blood, and so cleansed from all sin, which is the privilege of one already justified and "walking in the light." Grace--the source of "peace." be multiplied--still further than already. Dan 4:1, "Ye have now peace and grace, but still not in perfection; therefore, ye must go on increasing until the old Adam be dead" [LUTHER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,.... Not to any office, as to that of bishops or presbyters; for though the apostle writes to some of them under this character, Pe1 5:1 yet not all; nor were they so called, as a nation, for they were persons scattered about in several countries; nor as a church, for they are not wrote to as such; nor does this character merely design their effectual calling; though as that is a fruit and evidence of election, it is sometimes so styled, and the saints called by grace are said to be chosen; Joh 15:19 but it intends the eternal election of those persons both to grace and glory; which the apostle knew of, not by divine revelation, or any particular discovery made to him; but he concluded it in a judgment of charity, they being all under a profession of faith in Christ, and he having reason to believe that the greater part of them were truly partakers of that faith which demonstrated them to be the elect of God: the cause, spring, and source of their election was, "the foreknowledge of God the Father": to whom election is commonly ascribed, agreeably to the order of the divine Persons in the Trinity, and their distinct parts in the economy of salvation, though not to the exclusion of the Son and Spirit: and by this his "foreknowledge" is meant, not his eternal, universal, and infallible knowledge, and which is infinite, and reaches to all things and persons, present, future, or possible, for this has for its objects persons whom God never predestinated and chose: though certain it is that he knows and foreknows all whom he does predestinate and choose; nor does it intend the mere decree of election, or God's eternal purpose and resolution to choose, but the spring and source of that act of his: and much less does it mean a bare prescience of men, and choice of them, upon a foresight of faith, holiness, good works, and perseverance therein; for these are all, when genuine, the fruits and effects of election, which are included in it, and secured and brought about by it; but the sovereign grace, good will, and pleasure of God, or the everlasting love of God the Father, which is the cause of, and has given birth to the act of election, is meant by foreknowledge, joined with affection, delight, and approbation; knowledge, and foreknowledge, as ascribed to the divine Being, often signify such things; see Psa 1:6 Rom 11:1 and such a knowledge God the Father had of the persons of the elect from all eternity; and which is the ground and foundation of his choosing them to grace and glory, and not anything in them, or done by them, or anything out of himself; no other reason can be given of it than his own grace, his pure love, and sovereign good will and pleasure: the means follow, through which they were chosen, through sanctification of the Spirit; as in Th2 2:13. See Gill on Th2 2:13. The ends to which the saints are chosen are, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; by "obedience" is meant either the obedience of elect men to Christ, which lies in obeying the truth of the Gospel, called the obedience of faith; and so is the same with the "belief of the truth", which goes along in election with the sanctification of the Spirit, in Th2 2:13 and in submission to Gospel ordinances, and doing all good works in the name, faith, and strength of Christ; and which also are fruits and effects, and so not causes of divine predestination; see Eph 2:10 and also follow upon the sanctification of the Spirit; or else the obedience of Christ is intended; and so the Arabic version renders it, "unto the obedience of Jesus Christ"; which lay in his performing the precepts of the law, and bearing the penalty of it, death; and by which the chosen seed are justified, or made righteous in the sight of God, and have a title to eternal life and glory, and are safe from wrath to come; and to the enjoyment of this grace, they are chosen of God the Father; and between these two, predestination and justification, there is a close and inseparable connection; so that they that are interested in the one, are in the other; see Rom 8:30, the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; does not denote a small quantity of it, for it was shed and poured out in great abundance; but is said in allusion to the sprinkling of the blood of the passover lamb. Exo 12:22 or to the sprinkling of the blood on the book of the covenant, and on the people at Mount Sinai, Exo 24:8 or to other sprinklings of blood in their legal sacrifices: the application of the blood of Christ to the heart, by the Spirit of God, for cleansing, pardon, and justification, is meant; which affords true, solid, conscience peace and joy now, and entitles to eternal happiness and glory; all which are secured by electing grace. The salutation of these persons follows: grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied; which is much the same that is used by the Apostle Paul in all his epistles; see Gill on Rom 1:7, only Peter adds the word "multiplied"; which makes it more express, and the sense more clear: he means an enlarged view of interest in the love of God, an increase of grace out of the fulness of it in Christ, and of Gospel light, and of the several gifts of the Spirit; and also of all prosperity outward and inward, of a conscience peace through the blood of Christ, which passeth all understanding, and a more established and well grounded hope of enjoying eternal peace hereafter. The phrase is Jewish, and is used in their salutations in this form, , "let your peace be multiplied" (t), (t) T. Hieros. Masser Sheni, fol. 56. 3. T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 11. 2.
1 Peter 1:2
A Greeting from Peter
1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To the elect who are exiles of the Dispersion throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, chosen 2according to the foreknowledge of God the Father and sanctified by the Spirit for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Power of the Blood - Sermon 4 of 5 - the Sprinkling of the Blood
By Roy Hession1.7K29:00Blood Of ChristMAT 6:33HEB 12:241PE 1:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of immediate temptation and the lack of time to decide whether to yield to it or not. He uses the example of jealousy, explaining how it can arise instantly when someone else is praised and appreciated. The speaker emphasizes the importance of repentance and acknowledging one's wrongdoings, highlighting the cleansing power of the blood of Christ as mentioned in Hebrews 9. He encourages listeners to admit their faults and seek forgiveness through Jesus, emphasizing the need for obedience and the application of Scripture in daily life.
The Need and Personality of the Holy Spirit
By Dan Augsburger1.7K1:27:46Baptism Of The Holy SpiritJHN 4:24ACT 4:33ACT 20:28PHP 3:32TH 2:131PE 1:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reviewing objectives for the Sabbath service. The three objectives mentioned are to honor God, bring members together, and provide a training opportunity for new members. The speaker also highlights the need for the Holy Spirit's guidance and power in carrying out God's work. The sermon emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in every discourse and the promised outpouring of God's life-giving spirit as the hope of God's people. The speaker passionately calls for a new demonstration of God's reality, presence, and power in the church, stating that the church will be ablaze for God when individuals are ablaze for Him.
Religious but Lost - Professing Christians in Hell
By John Musser1.5K44:03False ConversionMAT 7:13MAT 13:24MAT 25:1LUK 13:241PE 1:22PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the prominent theme of the disciples, including James, Hebrews, and Jesus, which is the end of the age and the separation of the righteous from the false believers. Jesus used parables such as the ten virgins and the dragnet to teach about this concept. The preacher also highlights the issues faced by the Corinthians, including incest, party spirit, and jealousy, which led Paul to write them a letter. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the gospel, which is the good news of Jesus' death and resurrection, and the conditional aspect of salvation. The preacher also references 1 Peter and 2 Peter, emphasizing the importance of the word of God and the commandments for Christians to strive for virtues and Christ-likeness.
(John) the Lord's Prayer for His Followers at That Time
By Willie Mullan1.4K1:07:58The Lord's PrayerMAT 6:33JHN 6:37JHN 17:6ROM 8:30EPH 1:42TH 2:131PE 1:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of receiving and embracing the message of the Lord. He mentions his responsibility to bring the message to the congregation in two meetings on the Lord's day morning. The speaker also discusses the concept of being lost again and warns against doubting the trustworthiness of Jesus. He then focuses on John chapter six, specifically verse 37, where Jesus states that all those given to him by the Father will come to him. The speaker highlights the simplicity of this statement, emphasizing that while election and predestination exist, individuals still have the responsibility to come to Christ for salvation.
Chosen and Loved
By Jim Cymbala1.3K34:58God's FamilyGEN 1:28GEN 12:1MAT 7:13ROM 8:30EPH 1:41TH 1:41PE 1:2In this sermon, the preacher addresses born-again believers who may be struggling with doubts and difficult circumstances. He emphasizes that despite any challenges they may face, God's love for them remains unwavering. The preacher highlights the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross as evidence of God's love and encourages the congregation to hold onto this truth. He also emphasizes the importance of free will in conjunction with God's election, rejecting the notion that God's love is limited to a select few. The sermon concludes with a call to praise and a reminder to always remember God's love.
Studies in 1 Peter-06 1 Peter 1:22-25
By Dwight Pentecost95234:43MAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 3:36ACT 17:301PE 1:21PE 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of showing love and care for others, especially within the family of God. He compares this to a man who faithfully goes to work every day to provide for his family, not because it brings him excitement, but out of a sense of responsibility and concern. The basis for this command to love others is the fact that believers have been born again through the word of God. The preacher also highlights the need to love with a pure heart, genuinely caring for others and being interested in their well-being.
Prayer Summit - Part 7 by Gerhard Dutoit
By Gerhard Du Toit62933:52JHN 15:4ROM 3:25ROM 5:9EPH 1:7HEB 9:14HEB 10:19HEB 13:121PE 1:21JN 1:71JN 1:9
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life under the anointing of the Spirit of God, inviting believers to seek God's presence through prayer and fasting, and to experience the power of the blood of Jesus for cleansing and purification. It highlights the significance of inner brokenness, redemption, reconciliation, and sanctification through the blood of Christ, encouraging believers to abide in Christ and allow His Spirit to transform their hearts and minds.
My Joy, My Peace and My Victory - Part 3
By Bakht Singh4261:10:41VictoryLUK 2:10JHN 14:27JHN 15:11JHN 16:331PE 1:21PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on three chapters in the book of John, specifically John 14-16, which contain the last message Jesus gave to his disciples before his crucifixion. The preacher highlights that every word in these chapters holds deep meaning and can provide inspiration to believers. The sermon emphasizes three key themes: peace, joy, and victory, which sum up the Christian life. The preacher also references biblical passages that speak of peace and joy, emphasizing that God desires for believers to experience these blessings in their lives.
Be Obedient and Sin Not
By A.W. Tozer5840:32ObedienceLordship Of ChristPSA 103:20EZK 1:20MAT 11:30JHN 3:4ROM 5:19ROM 10:9EPH 2:21PE 1:21PE 1:141JN 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of obedience in the Christian life, arguing that true believers are inherently obedient children of God. He explains that salvation cannot exist without obedience, as sin is fundamentally rebellion against divine authority. Tozer critiques the notion that one can accept Christ as Savior without also acknowledging Him as Lord, asserting that such a divided relationship is a misunderstanding of the Gospel. He highlights that both heaven and hell are defined by obedience and disobedience, respectively, urging listeners to fully surrender to God's will. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a return to the understanding that accepting Christ means embracing His lordship and the obligation to obey Him.
Multiplied Grace
By Phil Beach Jr.221:00:32Abundance in ChristGraceEPH 2:81PE 1:2Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the transformative power of God's grace, urging believers to move from a mindset of addition to one of multiplication in their spiritual lives. He illustrates this concept using the analogy of mathematical operations, highlighting that while addition yields limited results, multiplication signifies abundance. The preacher encourages Christians to recognize their need for God's mercy and grace, which can be multiplied in their lives, enabling them to live righteously and deny worldly temptations. Ultimately, he stresses that all good works stem from grace, and believers should boast only in the Lord's provision rather than their own efforts.
On the Two Covenants
By Thomas Reade0EPH 1:4EPH 1:112TH 2:132TI 1:9TIT 3:51PE 1:21PE 1:20REV 13:8Thomas Reade preaches about the two covenants - the covenant of works proclaimed to Adam and the covenant of grace established by God before the world began. The covenant of grace, originating in God's everlasting love, was revealed to Adam after he broke the covenant of works, offering hope, pardon, and salvation through the promised 'seed of the woman,' Jesus Christ. Believers are called to reflect the character of the redeemed, chosen by God for holiness, salvation, and good works, walking in love and obedience to Christ. Reade emphasizes the importance of trusting in the immutable and everlasting covenant of grace, finding hope, peace, and joy in Jesus, the author of eternal salvation.
Caecillius Thascius Cyprianus
By John Gill0PredestinationGrace Of GodJHN 3:27ROM 8:30ROM 9:111CO 4:7EPH 1:4PHP 1:62TH 2:132TI 1:9HEB 10:141PE 1:2John Gill discusses the teachings of Caecilius Thascius Cyprianus, emphasizing the doctrine of predestination and the grace of God. Cyprian, an early church father and martyr, asserted that all gifts and obedience come from God, highlighting the importance of humility in recognizing that nothing is ours by merit. Gill notes that Cyprian's views align with Augustine's understanding of predestination, which emphasizes that believers are chosen by God and that their salvation is not based on their own works. The sermon reflects on the certainty of God's grace and the role of the Trinity in the process of salvation. Ultimately, it calls Christians to acknowledge their dependence on God's gifts and to live in accordance with His will.
Typified in the New Testament
By Martin Knapp0MAT 3:11MAT 8:2MAT 9:2MAT 9:20MAT 9:27MAT 9:34MRK 8:22LUK 14:14ROM 1:3HEB 13:121PE 1:2Martin Knapp preaches about the significance of the Bible as a double blessing, with the Old Testament paving the way for the New Testament, both inspired by the Holy Ghost and essential for salvation. He emphasizes the importance of not minimizing one testament over the other. Knapp discusses the double dispensations, authorship, nature, baptism, bodily resurrection, and healing, illustrating the need for a Double Cure in spiritual life.
Joannes Chrysostomus
By John Gill0PredestinationDivine SovereigntyJER 1:5MAT 25:34ACT 13:48ROM 8:29ROM 9:11EPH 1:42TH 2:132TI 1:91PE 1:2REV 17:8John Gill discusses the teachings of Joannes Chrysostomus, emphasizing his belief in the doctrine of eternal predestination. Chrysostom interprets various scriptures to affirm that God has appointed certain individuals to eternal life, highlighting the divine foreknowledge and purpose behind God's choices. He explains that God's election is based on His knowledge of individuals' future actions and faith, illustrating the balance between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Gill notes that Chrysostom's views align with the understanding that God's decrees are made in accordance with His foreknowledge of grace. This sermon underscores the profound mystery of God's plan for salvation and the assurance it brings to believers.
The Spirit of Holiness
By A.B. Simpson0HolinessSanctificationMAT 5:8JHN 15:4ROM 8:292CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:241TH 4:3HEB 10:141PE 1:21JN 1:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes that believers are elected not merely for salvation but for holiness, which is achieved through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. He explains that true sanctification involves a transformation into the divine nature of God, rather than a return to Adamic perfection. Simpson highlights the necessity of surrendering to Christ and receiving Him as our sanctification, which is a continuous process led by the Holy Spirit. The sermon stresses that holiness is not an exceptional experience for a few but a calling for all believers, requiring faith, obedience, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit's guidance. Ultimately, the goal is to embody the character of Christ, reflecting His love and purity in our lives.
The Blood of Sprinkling
By John Hames0EXO 24:8LEV 17:11EZK 36:26JHN 6:54HEB 9:14HEB 10:22HEB 12:241PE 1:21JN 1:7REV 1:5John Hames preaches on the powerful contrasts highlighted in Hebrews 12:24, focusing on the Pentecost at Mount Sinai versus the Pentecost at Mount Zion where believers were filled with the Holy Spirit and manifested Christian graces free from admixture. He delves into the contrast between the two covenants, emphasizing the new covenant's promise of God writing His law on believers' hearts, enabling them to walk in holiness. Hames also explores the significance of the blood of Jesus, explaining how it speaks of mercy and forgiveness, imparting Divine life to believers and cleansing them from sins and shortcomings.
Election and Reprobation
By Charles Finney0ReprobationElectionJER 6:30MAT 22:14JHN 6:37ROM 8:33EPH 1:42TH 2:132TI 2:19HEB 10:261PE 1:2REV 20:15Charles Finney addresses the concepts of election and reprobation, emphasizing that God has chosen some for salvation while rejecting others based on His infinite wisdom and foreknowledge. He clarifies that election is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign will and the individual's response to the gospel. Finney encourages listeners to examine their lives and attitudes towards the truth of the gospel as indicators of their eternal destiny, highlighting that the elect will show a genuine interest in salvation while the reprobate will remain indifferent or hostile. He concludes by urging individuals to make their calling and election sure through self-examination and a sincere pursuit of truth.
Epistle 403
By George Fox0PSA 118:23ISA 11:12JHN 10:15JHN 14:6ACT 3:22EPH 4:1HEB 7:271PE 1:2REV 3:7George Fox preaches a message of peace, grace, and truth to various places, emphasizing the importance of walking in holiness, righteousness, and godliness in all aspects of life. He reminds the listeners that the only way to God is through Christ Jesus, who serves as a prophet, bishop, shepherd, and high priest to guide and protect them. Reflecting on the Yearly Meeting, Fox acknowledges the presence of the eternal God and His peaceful glory that blessed the gathering.
Wrath and Mercy
By Christopher Love0ISA 1:9LUK 10:20JHN 10:28ROM 8:30EPH 1:51TH 5:9JAS 1:171PE 1:22PE 1:10REV 2:17Christopher Love preaches on the doctrine of predestination, emphasizing that those appointed by God for salvation can be assured of their election and should strive to make it sure through sanctification and obedience. He refutes the idea that a person can be certain of damnation, highlighting God's unchangeable decrees and the assurance of salvation for the elect. Love explains that God's decrees are limited to a small number of mankind, yet this does not make Him cruel, but rather showcases His sovereignty and mercy. He concludes by encouraging believers to pray for sanctification and the fruits of predestination, as the work of election is already completed.
1 Peter 1:2
By John Gill0Divine ElectionSovereign GraceEXO 12:22EXO 24:8PSA 1:6ROM 8:30ROM 11:1EPH 2:102TH 2:131PE 1:2John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 1:2, emphasizing the concept of divine election according to God's foreknowledge. He clarifies that this election is not based on any merit or action of individuals but is rooted in God's sovereign grace and love. Gill explains that the chosen are sanctified by the Spirit and called to obedience through faith in Jesus Christ, highlighting the significance of Christ's blood for justification and cleansing. He concludes with a prayer for grace and peace to be multiplied among the believers, reflecting the abundance of God's blessings.
Epistle 397
By George Fox0Spiritual GrowthHumilityGEN 1:272CH 7:14PRO 29:23ISA 57:15MAT 6:25JHN 17:141TI 2:9JAS 4:61PE 1:21JN 2:15George Fox addresses Friends and Brethren, emphasizing the need for spiritual growth away from worldly influences and pride. He highlights the fall of humanity from God's image due to transgression and warns against the dangers of pride and worldly lusts, urging believers to embrace humility and seek the kingdom of God. Fox cites various scriptures to illustrate the consequences of pride and the importance of living a life that reflects Christ's teachings. He encourages Christians to adorn themselves with good works rather than outward appearances, reminding them that true beauty lies in a humble spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the image of God through Christ, urging believers to reject worldly customs and live in accordance with God's will.
What Paul Said About Holiness 1
By Aaron Hills0ROM 15:161TH 3:131TH 4:31TH 4:71TH 5:191TH 5:232TH 2:131PE 1:2Aaron Hills preaches on the importance of sanctification as a second work of grace in the hearts of believers. Paul's letters to the Thessalonians emphasize God's will for sanctification, declaring it as a command for all His children. The process of sanctification is not achieved through self-effort but by yielding to God's work through the Holy Spirit. The prayer for sanctification in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 highlights the completeness of the work God desires to do in every aspect of our being - spirit, soul, and body.
St. Paul's "Election" Is Unto Sanctification.
By Daniel Steele0ROM 5:5ROM 6:192CO 1:122CO 6:62CO 11:3EPH 4:131TH 4:32TH 2:131TI 4:12HEB 12:141PE 1:2Daniel Steele preaches about sanctification and holiness post-Pentecost, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in creating and preserving purity in believing hearts. The act of sanctification involves divine grace removing impurity in those born of the Spirit, leading to deliverance from sin. Sanctification is viewed as the goal of Christian purification in this life, breaking the power of sin and allowing believers to bear fruit and experience eternal life. Steele highlights the importance of sanctification for spiritual perception, love, and clear spiritual eyesight, ultimately glorifying Christ and enabling believers to see God.
Righteousness Unto Sanctification
By Daniel Steele0ACT 15:8ROM 6:191CO 1:301TH 4:32TH 2:13HEB 10:14HEB 12:41PE 1:2REV 22:11Daniel Steele preaches on the divine order of Gospel Salvation, emphasizing the precedence of righteousness leading to perfect holiness, with justification always preceding entire sanctification. He highlights the importance of seeking entire sanctification and the role of the Holy Spirit in purifying believers. Steele clarifies the distinction between justification and sanctification, refuting the idea that they are simultaneous events. He encourages believers to earnestly seek the crowning blessing of entire sanctification through unwavering faith in Christ.
Shew Me Wherefore Thou Contendest With Me
By C.H. Spurgeon0ROM 1:5ROM 5:19HEB 5:81PE 1:21PE 1:22Greek Word Studies for aid_number 34509 preaches on the concept of obedience (hupakoe), emphasizing the importance of listening from a subordinate position and complying with God's commands. Obedience is seen as submission to God's will, carrying out His word, and forsaking self-will. The missionary translator's experience highlights the essence of obedience as being 'all ear' to God's instructions. Faith and obedience are inseparable, with genuine faith always leading to obedience and submission to the gospel of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Elect according to the foreknowledge of God - If the apostle had directed his letter to persons elected to eternal life, no one, as Drs. Lardner and Macknight properly argue, could have received such a letter, because no one could have been sure of his election in this way till he had arrived in heaven. But the persons to whom the apostle wrote were all, with propriety, said to be elect according to the foreknowledge of God; because, agreeably to the original purpose of God, discovered in the prophetical writings, Jews and Gentiles, indiscriminately, were called to be the visible Church, and entitled to all the privileges of the people of God, on their believing the Gospel. In this sense the word elected is used in other places of Scripture; see Th1 1:4, and the note there. The Rev. J. Wesley has an excellent note on this passage, which I shall transcribe for the benefit of those of my readers who may not have his works at hand. "Strictly speaking, there is no foreknowledge, no more than afterknowledge, with God; but all things are known to him as present, from eternity to eternity. Election, in the scriptural sense, is God's doing any thing that our merit or power has no part in. The true predestination or foreappointment of God is, 1. He that believeth shall be saved from the guilt and power of sin. 2. He that endureth to the end shall be saved eternally. 3. They who receive the precious gift of faith thereby become the sons of God; and, being sons, they shall receive the Spirit of holiness, to walk as Christ also walked. Throughout every part of this appointment of God, promise and duty go hand in hand. All is free gift; and yet, such is the gift, that it depends in the final issue on our future obedience to the heavenly call. But other predestination than this, either to life or death eternal, the Scripture knows not of: moreover, 1. It is cruel respect of persons; an unjust regard of one, and an unjust disregard of another: it is mere creature partiality, and not infinite justice. 2. It is not plain Scripture doctrine, (if true), but rather inconsistent with the express written word that speaks of God's universal offers of grace; his invitations, promises, threatenings, being all general. 3. We are bid to choose life, and reprehended for not doing it. 4. It is inconsistent with a state of probation in those that must be saved, or must be lost. 5. It is of fatal consequence; all men being ready, on very slight grounds, to fancy themselves of the elect number. But the doctrine of predestination is entirely changed from what it formerly was: now it implies neither faith, peace, nor purity; it is something that will do without them all. Faith is no longer, according to the modern predestination scheme, a Divine evidence of things not seen wrought in the soul by the immediate power of the Holy Ghost; not an evidence at all, but a mere notion: neither is faith made any longer a means of holiness, but something that will do without it. Christ is no more a Savior from sin, but a defense and a countenancer of it. He is no more a fountain of spiritual life in the souls of believers, but leaves his elect inwardly dry, and outwardly unfruitful; and is made little more than a refuge from the image of the heavenly, even from righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." Through sanctification of the Spirit - through the renewing and purifying influences of his Spirit on their souls, unto obedience - to engage and enable them to yield themselves up to all holy obedience, the foundation of all which is the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ - the atoning blood of Jesus Christ which was typified by the sprinkling of the blood of sacrifices under the law, in allusion to which it is called the blood of sprinkling.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
foreknowledge--foreordaining love (Pe1 1:20), inseparable from God's foreknowledge, the origin from which, and pattern according to which, election takes place. Act 2:23, and Rom 11:2, prove "foreknowledge" to be foreordination. God's foreknowledge is not the perception of any ground of action out of Himself; still in it liberty is comprehended, and all absolute constraint debarred [ANSELM in STEIGER]. For so the Son of God was "foreknown" (so the Greek for "foreordained," Pe1 1:20) to be the sacrificial Lamb, not against, or without His will, but His will rested in the will of the Father; this includes self-conscious action; nay, even cheerful acquiescense. The Hebrew and Greek "know" include approval and acknowledging as one's own. The Hebrew marks the oneness of loving and choosing, by having one word for both, bachar (Greek, "hairetizo," Septuagint). Peter descends from the eternal "election" of God through the new birth, to the believer's "sanctification," that from this he might again raise them through the consideration of their new birth to a "living hope" of the heavenly "inheritance" [HEIDEGGER]. The divine three are introduced in their respective functions in redemption. through--Greek, "in"; the element in which we are elected. The "election" of God realized and manifested itself "IN" their sanctification. Believers are "sanctified through the offering of Christ once for all" (Heb 10:10). "Thou must believe and know that thou art holy; not, however, through thine own piety, but through the blood of Christ" [LUTHER]. This is the true sanctification of the Spirit, to obey the Gospel, to trust in Christ [BULLINGER]. sanctification--the Spirit's setting apart of the saint as consecrated to God. The execution of God's choice (Gal 1:4). God the Father gives us salvation by gratuitous election; the Son earns it by His blood-shedding; the Holy Spirit applies the merit of the Son to the soul by the Gospel word [CALVIN]. Compare Num 6:24-26, the Old Testament triple blessing. unto obedience--the result or end aimed at by God as respects us, the obedience which consists in faith, and that which flows from faith; "obeying the truth through the Spirit" (Pe1 1:22). Rom 1:5, "obedience to the faith," and obedience the fruit of faith. sprinkling, &c.--not in justification through the atonement once for all, which is expressed in the previous clauses, but (as the order proves) the daily being sprinkled by Christ's blood, and so cleansed from all sin, which is the privilege of one already justified and "walking in the light." Grace--the source of "peace." be multiplied--still further than already. Dan 4:1, "Ye have now peace and grace, but still not in perfection; therefore, ye must go on increasing until the old Adam be dead" [LUTHER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father,.... Not to any office, as to that of bishops or presbyters; for though the apostle writes to some of them under this character, Pe1 5:1 yet not all; nor were they so called, as a nation, for they were persons scattered about in several countries; nor as a church, for they are not wrote to as such; nor does this character merely design their effectual calling; though as that is a fruit and evidence of election, it is sometimes so styled, and the saints called by grace are said to be chosen; Joh 15:19 but it intends the eternal election of those persons both to grace and glory; which the apostle knew of, not by divine revelation, or any particular discovery made to him; but he concluded it in a judgment of charity, they being all under a profession of faith in Christ, and he having reason to believe that the greater part of them were truly partakers of that faith which demonstrated them to be the elect of God: the cause, spring, and source of their election was, "the foreknowledge of God the Father": to whom election is commonly ascribed, agreeably to the order of the divine Persons in the Trinity, and their distinct parts in the economy of salvation, though not to the exclusion of the Son and Spirit: and by this his "foreknowledge" is meant, not his eternal, universal, and infallible knowledge, and which is infinite, and reaches to all things and persons, present, future, or possible, for this has for its objects persons whom God never predestinated and chose: though certain it is that he knows and foreknows all whom he does predestinate and choose; nor does it intend the mere decree of election, or God's eternal purpose and resolution to choose, but the spring and source of that act of his: and much less does it mean a bare prescience of men, and choice of them, upon a foresight of faith, holiness, good works, and perseverance therein; for these are all, when genuine, the fruits and effects of election, which are included in it, and secured and brought about by it; but the sovereign grace, good will, and pleasure of God, or the everlasting love of God the Father, which is the cause of, and has given birth to the act of election, is meant by foreknowledge, joined with affection, delight, and approbation; knowledge, and foreknowledge, as ascribed to the divine Being, often signify such things; see Psa 1:6 Rom 11:1 and such a knowledge God the Father had of the persons of the elect from all eternity; and which is the ground and foundation of his choosing them to grace and glory, and not anything in them, or done by them, or anything out of himself; no other reason can be given of it than his own grace, his pure love, and sovereign good will and pleasure: the means follow, through which they were chosen, through sanctification of the Spirit; as in Th2 2:13. See Gill on Th2 2:13. The ends to which the saints are chosen are, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; by "obedience" is meant either the obedience of elect men to Christ, which lies in obeying the truth of the Gospel, called the obedience of faith; and so is the same with the "belief of the truth", which goes along in election with the sanctification of the Spirit, in Th2 2:13 and in submission to Gospel ordinances, and doing all good works in the name, faith, and strength of Christ; and which also are fruits and effects, and so not causes of divine predestination; see Eph 2:10 and also follow upon the sanctification of the Spirit; or else the obedience of Christ is intended; and so the Arabic version renders it, "unto the obedience of Jesus Christ"; which lay in his performing the precepts of the law, and bearing the penalty of it, death; and by which the chosen seed are justified, or made righteous in the sight of God, and have a title to eternal life and glory, and are safe from wrath to come; and to the enjoyment of this grace, they are chosen of God the Father; and between these two, predestination and justification, there is a close and inseparable connection; so that they that are interested in the one, are in the other; see Rom 8:30, the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; does not denote a small quantity of it, for it was shed and poured out in great abundance; but is said in allusion to the sprinkling of the blood of the passover lamb. Exo 12:22 or to the sprinkling of the blood on the book of the covenant, and on the people at Mount Sinai, Exo 24:8 or to other sprinklings of blood in their legal sacrifices: the application of the blood of Christ to the heart, by the Spirit of God, for cleansing, pardon, and justification, is meant; which affords true, solid, conscience peace and joy now, and entitles to eternal happiness and glory; all which are secured by electing grace. The salutation of these persons follows: grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied; which is much the same that is used by the Apostle Paul in all his epistles; see Gill on Rom 1:7, only Peter adds the word "multiplied"; which makes it more express, and the sense more clear: he means an enlarged view of interest in the love of God, an increase of grace out of the fulness of it in Christ, and of Gospel light, and of the several gifts of the Spirit; and also of all prosperity outward and inward, of a conscience peace through the blood of Christ, which passeth all understanding, and a more established and well grounded hope of enjoying eternal peace hereafter. The phrase is Jewish, and is used in their salutations in this form, , "let your peace be multiplied" (t), (t) T. Hieros. Masser Sheni, fol. 56. 3. T. Bab. Sanhedrin, fol. 11. 2.