1 Peter 1:6
Verse
Context
A Living Hope
5who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials7so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Sermons
Warren Wiersbe
Bob Phillips
Zac Poonen
Anton Bosch
Mack Tomlinson
Charles E. Cowman
Thomas a KempisSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherein ye greatly rejoice - Some refer wherein, εν ᾡ, to the salvation mentioned above; others, to the last time, καιρῳ εσχατῳ, in Pe1 1:5; others think that it applies to the being kept by the power of God through faith; and others, that it refers to all the preceding advantages and privileges. It was in the present salvation of God that they rejoiced or gloried, though not without having an eye to the great recompense of reward. Though now for a season - Ολιγον αρτι· A little while yet - during your pilgrimage here below, which is but a point when compared with eternity. If need be - Ει δεον εστι· If it be necessary - if your situation and circumstances be such that you are exposed to trials and persecutions which you cannot avoid, unless God were to work a miracle for your deliverance, which would not be for your ultimate good, as he purposes to turn all your trials and difficulties to your advantage. Sometimes there is a kind of necessity that the followers of God should be afflicted; when they have no trials they are apt to get careless, and when they have secular prosperity they are likely to become worldly-minded. "God," said a good man, "can neither trust me with health nor money; therefore I am both poor and afflicted." But the disciples of Christ may be very happy in their souls, though grievously afflicted in their bodies and in their estates. Those to whom St. Peter wrote rejoiced greatly, danced for joy, αγαλλιασθε, while they were grieved, λυπηθεντες, with various trials. The verb λυπεω signifies to grieve, to make sorrowful: perhaps heaviness is not the best rendering of the original word, as this can scarcely ever consist with rejoicing; but to be sorrowful on account of something external to ourselves, and yet exulting in God from a sense of his goodness to us, is quite compatible: so that we may say with St. Paul, always sorrowing, yet still rejoicing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherein--in which prospect of final salvation. greatly rejoice--"exult with joy": "are exuberantly glad." Salvation is realized by faith (Pe1 1:9) as a thing so actually present as to cause exulting joy in spite of existing afflictions. for a season--Greek, "for a little time." if need be--"if it be God's will that it should be so" [ALFORD], for not all believers are afflicted. One need not invite or lay a cross on himself, but only "take up" the cross which God imposes ("his cross"); Ti2 3:12 is not to be pressed too far. Not every believer, nor every sinner, is tried with afflictions [THEOPHYLACT]. Some falsely think that notwithstanding our forgiveness in Christ, a kind of atonement, or expiation by suffering, is needed. ye are in heaviness--Greek, "ye were grieved." The "grieved" is regarded as past, the "exulting joy" present. Because the realized joy of the coming salvation makes the present grief seem as a thing of the past. At the first shock of affliction ye were grieved, but now by anticipation ye rejoice, regarding the present grief as past. through--Greek, "IN": the element in which the grief has place. manifold--many and of various kinds (Pe1 4:12-13). temptations--"trials" testing your faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherein ye greatly rejoice,.... The Vulgate Latin version reads, "in which ye shall rejoice": and so the Syriac version, adding, "for ever"; and refer these words to the "last time"; or, times spoken of in the preceding verse; when the saints will greatly rejoice, being in full possession of eternal salvation; in distinction from the present time, in which they are in heaviness; but it is better to read the words in the present tense, and as expressive of the saints in this life, who are blessed with that fruit of the Spirit, joy, and have always reason to rejoice, and greatly rejoice. The connection is with the whole that goes before; and the sense is this, that regenerated persons rejoice, in that they are the elect of God, according to his everlasting love towards them, and free grace, and good will; in their regeneration, which is an evidence of their election of God; in the abundant mercy of God displayed in their regeneration; and in that lively hope of eternal life which is the effect of it; and in the resurrection of Christ from the dead, which secures their justification of life, and their resurrection from the dead; and in the inheritance they are born heirs unto; and in their preservation to it by the power of God through faith; and in that complete salvation which is ready for them, and in a short time will be revealed, to which they are kept: though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness, through manifold temptations. This seems to be a contrast, but is no real contradiction; for the character of the saints in this world is, that they are as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing, Co2 6:10 rejoicing even in their tribulations and temptations; yea, for them, and on account of them, in some respects, which in others make them sorrowful, and heavy, or "heavy" with sorrow: the cause of this heaviness is not only indwelling corruptions, the hidings of God's face, and the temptations of Satan, but afflictions and persecutions, which are here meant by "manifold temptations"; for not the temptations or to sin, are here intended, but the temptations with which God tempts and tries his people: so he sometimes does, by calling them to hard service, to do things difficult and disagreeable to flesh and blood, in which way he tempted Abraham; and by laying afflictions, or suffering afflictions to come upon them, by which he tried Job; and by permitting wicked men to reproach and persecute them, and to injure them in their characters, persons, and properties; and which was the case of the primitive Christians, and has been more or less the case of the saints ever since: now such exercises are called, from the quality of them, temptations, or trials; because they try the hearts, principles, and graces of them that believe, and particularly their faith hereafter mentioned; and from the quantity of them, they are said to be various; they are of different sorts; as reproach, imprisonment, loss of goods, and death itself in divers shapes; and are more or less at different times and ages; and are exercised on various persons: and are sometimes very heavy, and grievous to be borne, and cause great heaviness and sorrow of heart; and yet there are things, and circumstances, and which are here hinted at, that greatly mitigate the heaviness occasioned by them; as, that these afflictions, and the heaviness that comes by them, are but little, and light, in comparison of the eternal weight of glory; though they are great tribulations in themselves, through and out of which the people of God come to the kingdom; and so the Syriac version renders it, "though at this time" "ye are a little made sorrowful"; and then it is only "now", for the present time, and but for a short time; for a little season, even for a moment, comparatively speaking; and also, "if need be", which the Syriac version omits, though by all means to be retained: afflictive dispensations, in whatsoever form, are necessary, by the will of God, who has appointed them, and therefore must be, and ought to be, quietly submitted to, and patiently borne, on that consideration; and are also necessary, on account of Christ the head, to whom there must be a conformity of his members; and likewise on their own account; for the humbling of their souls; for the weaning of them from the things of this world; for the restraining, subduing, and keeping under the corruptions of their nature; and for the trial of grace: and it is only "if", and when there is a necessity for them, that they are in heaviness by them; otherwise God does not delight to afflict and grieve the children of men, and much less his own; see Lam 3:33 so the Jews say (y), that "there was a necessity" of God's tempting Abraham as he did, to humble and purify him, (y) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 22. 1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The first word, wherein, refers to the apostle's foregoing discourse about the excellency of their present state, and their grand expectations for the future. "In this condition you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, or a little while, if need be, you are made sorrowful through manifold temptations," Pe1 1:6. I. The apostle grants they were in great affliction, and propounds several things in mitigation of their sorrows. 1. Every sound Christian has always something wherein he may greatly rejoice. Great rejoicing contains more than an inward placid serenity of mind or sensation of comfort; it will show itself in the countenance and conduct, but especially in praise and gratitude. 2. The chief joy of a good Christian arises from things spiritual and heavenly, from his relation to God and to heaven. In these every sound Christian greatly rejoices; his joy arises from his treasure, which consists of matters of great value, and the title to them is sure. 3. The best Christians, those who have reason greatly to rejoice, may yet be in great heaviness through manifold temptations. All sorts of adversities are temptations, or trials of faith, patience, and constancy. These seldom go singly, but are manifold, and come from different quarters, the effect of all which is great heaviness. As men, we are subject to sorrows, personal and domestic. As Christians, our duty to God obliges us to frequent sorrow: and our compassion towards the miserable, the dishonour done to God, the calamities of his church, and the destruction of mankind, from their own folly and from divine vengeance, raise, in a generous and pious mind, almost continual sorrow. I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart, Rom 9:2. 4. The afflictions and sorrows of good people are but for a little while, they are but for a season; though they may be smart, they are but short. Life itself is but for a little while, and the sorrows of it cannot survive it; the shortness of any affliction does much abate the heaviness of it. 5. Great heaviness is often necessary to a Christian's good: If need be, you are in heaviness. God does not afflict his people willingly, but acts with judgment, in proportion to our needs. There is a conveniency and fitness, nay, an absolute necessity in the case, for so the expression signifies: it must be; therefore no man should be moved by these afflictions. For yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto, Th1 3:3. These troubles, that lie heavy, never come upon us but when we have need, and never stay any longer than needs must. II. He expresses the end of their afflictions and the ground of their joy under them, Pe1 1:7. The end of good people's afflictions is the trial of their faith. As to the nature of this trial, it is much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire. The effect of the trial is this, it will be found unto praise, honour, and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. Note, 1. The afflictions of serious Christians are designed for the trial of their faith. God's design in afflicting his people is their probation, not their destruction; their advantage, not their ruin: a trial, as the word signifies, is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith. This trial is made upon faith principally, rather than any other grace, because the trial of this is, in effect, the trial of all that is good in us. Our Christianity depends upon our faith; if this be wanting, there is nothing else that is spiritually good in us. Christ prays for this apostle, that his faith might not fail; if that be supported, all the rest will stand firm; the faith of good people is tried, that they themselves may have the comfort of it, God the glory of it, and others the benefit of it. 2. A tried faith is much more precious than tried gold. Here is a double comparison of faith and gold, and the trial of the one with the trial of the other. Gold is the most valuable, pure, useful, and durable, of all the metals; so is faith among the Christian virtues; it lasts till it brings the soul to heaven, and then it issues in the glorious fruition of God for ever. The trial of faith is much more precious than the trial of gold; in both there is a purification, a separation of the dross, and a discovery of the soundness and goodness of the things. Gold does not increase and multiply by trial in the fire, it rather grows less; but faith is established, improved, and multiplied, by the oppositions and afflictions that it meets with. Gold must perish at last - gold that perisheth; but faith never will. I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not, Luk 22:32. The trial of faith will be found to praise, and honour, and glory. Honour is properly that esteem and value which one has with another, and so God and man will honour the saints. Praise is the expression or declaration of that esteem; so Christ will commend his people in the great day, Come, you blessed of my Father, etc. Glory is that lustre wherewith a person, so honoured and praised, shines in heaven. Glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, Rom 2:10. If a tried faith be found to praise, honour, and glory, let this recommend faith to you, as much more precious than gold, though it be assaulted and tried by afflictions. If you make your estimate either from present use or the final event of both, this will be found true, however the world may take it for an incredible paradox. 4. Jesus Christ will appear again in glory, and, when he does so, the saints will appear with him, and their graces will appear illustrious; and the more they have been tried the more bright they will then appear. The trial will soon be over, but the glory, honour, and praise will last to eternity. This should reconcile you to your present afflictions: they work for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. III. He particularly commends the faith of these primitive Christians upon two accounts: - 1. The excellency of its object, the unseen Jesus. The apostle had seen our Lord in the flesh, but these dispersed Jews never did, and yet they believed in him, Pe1 1:8. It is one thing to believe God, or Christ (so the devils believe), and another thing to believe in him, which denotes subjection, reliance, and expectation of all promised good from him. 2. On account of two notable productions or effects of their faith, love and joy, and this joy so great as to be above description: You rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. Learn, (1.) The faith of a Christian is properly conversant about things revealed, but not seen. Sense converses with things sensible and present; reason is a higher guide, which by sure deductions can infer the operation of causes, and the certainty of events; but faith ascends further still, and assures us of abundance of particulars that sense and reason could never have found out, upon the credit of revelation; it is the evidence of things not seen. (2.) True faith is never alone, but produces a strong love to Jesus Christ. True Christians have a sincere love to Jesus, because they believe in him. This love discovers itself in the highest esteem for him, affectionate desires after him, willingness to be dissolved to be with him, delightful thoughts, cheerful services and sufferings, etc. (3.) Where there are true faith and love to Christ there is, or may be, joy unspeakable and full of glory. This joy is inexpressible, it cannot be described by words; the best discovery is by an experimental taste of it; it is full of glory, full of heaven. There is much of heaven and the future glory in the present joys of improved Christians; their faith removes the causes of sorrow, and affords the best reasons for joy. Though good people sometimes walk in darkness, it is often owing to their own mistakes and ignorance, or to a fearful or melancholy disposition, or to some late sinful conduct, or perhaps to some sad occurrence of providence, that sinks their comfort for the present, yet they have reason to rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of their salvation, Hab 3:18. Well might these primitive Christians rejoice with the joy unspeakable, since they were every day receiving the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls, Pe1 1:9. Note, [1.] The blessing they were receiving: The salvation of their souls (the more noble part being put for the whole man), which salvation is here called the end of their faith, the end wherein faith terminates: faith helps to save the soul, then it has done its work, and ceases for ever. [2.] He speaks of the present time: You are now actually receiving the end of your faith, etc. [3.] The word used alludes to the games at which the conqueror received or bore away from the judge of the contest a crown or reward, which he carried about in triumph; so the salvation of the soul was the prize these Christians sought for, the crown they laboured for, the end they aimed at, which came nearer and more within their reach every day. Learn, First, Every faithful Christian is daily receiving the salvation of his soul; salvation is one permanent thing, begun in this life, not interrupted by death, and continued to all eternity. These believers had the beginnings of heaven in the possession of holiness and a heavenly mind, in their duties and communion with God, in the earnest of the inheritance, and the witness of the divine Spirit. This was properly urged to these distressed people; they were on the losing side in the world, but the apostle puts them in the mind of what they were receiving; if they lost an inferior good, they were all the while receiving the salvation of their souls. Secondly, It is lawful for a Christian to make the salvation of his soul his end; the glory of God and our own felicity are so connected that if we regularly seek the one we must attain the other.
1 Peter 1:6
A Living Hope
5who through faith are shielded by God’s power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials7so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Eternal Elite
By Warren Wiersbe4.2K50:141PE 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as Christians, we are not loved or wanted by the world. However, this should not discourage us because we belong to a special family and are part of God's elite. The sermon highlights four distinctives that make Christians special: belonging to a special family, sharing a special future, possessing a special faith, and enjoying a special fellowship. The preacher encourages believers to take pride in their identity as born-again Christians and to confidently proclaim their special status in God's kingdom.
Blood Covenant - Part 12
By Bob Phillips1.3K37:37MAL 3:11CO 2:9HEB 9:81PE 1:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a heart that can be purified like gold. He explains that when we choose righteousness over the lust of the flesh, we will be able to offer up offerings in righteousness and walk a righteous life. The preacher also highlights the idea that we should not be surprised when we face fiery trials, as they are meant for our testing and purification. He references several Bible verses, including Romans 8 and 1 Peter, to support the idea that if we are willing to suffer with Christ, we will be glorified.
The Proof of Faith
By Zac Poonen92957:421PE 1:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith in the New Testament, focusing on spiritual needs, mental and emotional needs, and physical needs in that order. It highlights the example of Jesus choosing weakness and the way of the cross, encouraging believers to follow in his footsteps by being willing to endure trials, persecution, and humiliation for the sake of glorifying God. The speaker challenges listeners to examine their faith, choose the path of genuine faith that withstands the fire of testing, and live a life devoted to God's will and kingdom above all else.
Persecution and Trials - 1 Peter
By Anton Bosch85248:35TrialsMAT 6:33ROM 8:281PE 1:61PE 2:181PE 2:231PE 4:13In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of arming oneself with the mindset of Christ, especially in the face of suffering and trials. Christians should be prepared and ready for difficulties that will inevitably come their way. The speaker emphasizes the need to rejoice in the midst of suffering, as it allows believers to partake in Christ's sufferings and ultimately experience His glory. The sermon also highlights the importance of holding onto the truth of God's word and not allowing negative thoughts or propaganda from the enemy to overshadow it.
Trials in the Christian Life
By Mack Tomlinson49843:381PE 1:6
This sermon by Peter addresses the theme of Christian suffering and trials, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of trials, their temporary nature, the necessity of trials for spiritual growth, and the grief they bring. The message encourages believers not to be surprised by trials but to rejoice in them, knowing they refine and purify faith. The sermon highlights the importance of finding joy in the midst of suffering and trusting in God's sovereignty through all trials.
Make a Way
By Charles E. Cowman0ISA 49:11ROM 5:3HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles E. Cowman preaches about how God uses obstacles in our lives to serve His purpose, emphasizing that the challenges we face are often the very conditions needed for spiritual growth and the development of virtues like patience. He highlights that these obstacles, whether heavy claims, difficult circumstances, or daily struggles, are opportunities for us to grow in faith and character, rather than hindrances to be removed. Cowman encourages believers to embrace their trials, submit to God's will, and trust that He will make a way through the mountains in our lives.
The Quest of Divine Help and Confidence in Regaining Grace
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 46:1ROM 5:32CO 4:17JAS 1:171PE 1:6Thomas a Kempis preaches about finding strength and consolation in God during times of trouble, emphasizing the importance of turning to prayer before seeking worldly comforts. He encourages endurance, courage, and trust in God's mercy, reminding that temporary hardships and adversities are opportunities for spiritual growth and merit. Kempis highlights the need to view adversity as a means to the kingdom of heaven, as God's gifts are His to give and take away, and every trial is ultimately for our salvation and spiritual benefit.
Lix. to the Honorable, Reverend, and Well-Beloved Professors of Christ
By Samuel Rutherford0JHN 14:6PHP 1:292TI 2:12HEB 12:21PE 1:6Samuel Rutherford delivers a letter of encouragement to the Presbyterian Church of Ireland during a time of great distress, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite persecutions and the loss of their ministers. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to the cause for which they are suffering, reminding them that the way they are enduring reproach for is the only saving way to heaven. Rutherford encourages them to hold fast to Christ, even in the face of trials and temptations, and assures them that Christ will ultimately be victorious.
Discovering God's Graces
By Charles E. Cowman0JOB 10:2ROM 5:3JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles H. Spurgeon preaches about how trials and afflictions are often used by God to develop and reveal the graces within us. Just like how faith shines brighter in times of adversity, love and hope are also most evident in the midst of darkness and challenges. Through sanctified trials, God not only helps us discover our graces but also enables real growth in our spiritual journey, preparing us for His service and molding us into stronger soldiers of faith.
The Faithful Promiser (31 Day Devotional)
By John MacDuff0DEU 33:25JOB 17:9PSA 25:10PSA 84:11PSA 119:49ISA 1:18ISA 40:31ISA 60:20HOS 2:19HOS 14:4MAT 12:20LUK 22:31JHN 13:7JHN 14:16JHN 14:18JHN 14:27ROM 8:281CO 15:532CO 9:8GAL 6:9PHP 1:6HEB 10:231PE 1:61PE 5:42PE 1:4REV 1:18REV 3:11REV 3:19REV 14:13REV 21:3REV 21:25John MacDuff preaches about the glorious promises of God, highlighting the delight of pleading individual promises at the mercy-seat and the importance of trusting in God's faithfulness. He emphasizes the gracious conference of God offering pardoning grace, the provision of needful grace in times of trial, and the abundance of all-sufficient grace for every situation. MacDuff also discusses the comforting, restraining, restoring, sanctifying, reviving, persevering, dying, and after-grace of God, encouraging believers to surrender to God's love and trust in His compassion and strength.
Rejoice-or Grumble
By A.W. Tozer0Faith and HopeJoy in Trials1PE 1:6A.W. Tozer emphasizes the choice between rejoicing and grumbling in the face of life's challenges, questioning how some Christians can remain negative despite the promises of the Bible. He highlights the Apostle Peter's encouragement to suffering believers, reminding them to focus on God's provisions and the hope of a perfect future. Tozer points out that while we live in an imperfect world, faith allows us to look beyond our current trials to the greater glory that awaits us. He urges believers to embrace joy and gratitude rather than succumb to a grumbling spirit.
Made Perfect Through Suffering
By Charles E. Cowman0ROM 8:182CO 4:17HEB 12:6JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles E. Cowman uses the analogy of a moth struggling to emerge from its cocoon to illustrate the necessary process of suffering and trials in our lives. Just as the moth's struggle is essential for its wings to develop and for it to reach its full beauty, our trials and sufferings are meant to shape us and reveal the glory that awaits us. Cowman emphasizes that God's perfect love does not shy away from allowing us to go through difficulties because it is through these challenges that we are refined and prepared for a greater purpose.
Heaviness Through Manifold Temptations
By John Wesley0HeavinessTrials and Temptations1PE 1:6John Wesley addresses the heaviness experienced by believers through manifold temptations, emphasizing that such heaviness does not equate to darkness of soul. He explains that believers can endure heaviness while still possessing faith, peace, hope, and joy, as these elements coexist even in trials. Wesley outlines the causes of this heaviness, including physical ailments, poverty, and the loss of loved ones, and he highlights that these trials serve to strengthen faith and holiness. Ultimately, he encourages believers to view their heaviness as a means to grow closer to God and to prepare for eternal glory.
Marah
By Henry Law0EXO 15:23PSA 34:19ROM 5:3JAS 1:21PE 1:6Henry Law preaches on the story of Israel at Marah, highlighting how even when under God's protection, they faced bitter trials and disappointments. He emphasizes that trials are necessary for faith, hope, and patience to grow, and that believers should expect some bitterness in their journey. Law draws parallels between the bitter waters of Marah and the various challenges believers face in their hearts, in seeking refreshment from within, and in enduring persecution and personal struggles. He encourages believers to turn to Jesus, the 'tree of life,' for healing and relief in every bitter situation, reminding them that Christ can make even the most bitter experiences sweet.
Light for a Dark House
By James Smith0JOB 33:19PSA 34:19PSA 73:5ROM 5:31CO 10:132CO 4:17HEB 12:6JAS 1:21PE 1:6REV 7:13James Smith preaches about the trials that both the righteous and Christians face, emphasizing that these trials are designed by the Lord to exercise, improve, and teach us. He highlights that trials do not make us righteous, but rather reveal our need for Christ and deepen our reliance on Him. Smith reminds believers that trials are a demonstration of God's love, limited in time and degree, and ultimately work towards our future glory. He concludes by stressing that enduring trials is a key evidence of God's grace in our lives.
The Besetting Sin (Heb. Xii: 1-4)
By Seth Rees0MAT 5:291CO 9:24PHP 3:13COL 3:52TI 4:7HEB 6:12HEB 12:11PE 1:6Seth Rees preaches on the heavenly race described in Hebrews 12:1-4, emphasizing the need to run with patience, looking unto Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith. He highlights the importance of laying aside every weight and the inbred sin that easily besets us to run the Christian race credibly and win the prize. Rees stresses the necessity of being saved, sanctified, and continuously progressing in the race, enduring trials with patience and focusing on Jesus amidst challenges. He urges believers to consider the cloud of witnesses cheering us on and to eliminate anything hindering our spiritual progress to become strong men and women in the race.
Letters to Olympias - Part 2
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 26:41ROM 5:32CO 4:17PHP 4:11HEB 10:36JAS 1:2JAS 1:121PE 1:61PE 4:12John Chrysostom encourages Olympias to find joy and strength in the midst of trials and afflictions, highlighting the purification and fortification of the soul through challenges. He reassures her of his own well-being despite past sufferings and emphasizes the importance of enduring afflictions with courage and faith. Chrysostom urges Olympias to focus on spiritual growth and not be dismayed by external threats or hardships, reminding her of the eternal rewards awaiting those who persevere. He commends her resilience and unwavering faith, encouraging her to continue in her steadfastness and trust in God's providence.
Greatest Gifts Come Through Travail
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 34:17PSA 56:3ISA 41:10MRK 5:36ROM 4:18ROM 8:182CO 12:9JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of enduring great trials to strengthen our faith, drawing inspiration from the unwavering faith of Abraham in Romans 4:18-19. He emphasizes that the strongest faith is developed in the midst of great afflictions, teaching us to hold onto God's promises even when everything else fails. Cowman encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty and to find comfort in knowing that through trials and suffering, God is preparing us for His greater purposes.
The Use of Desertions - the Reprobate
By Samuel Rutherford0ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 6:37ROM 3:22ROM 8:1ROM 8:29ROM 10:9EPH 2:8PHP 2:121PE 1:6Samuel Rutherford delves into the topic of desertions, likening them to a fallow land gathering sap for a better crop, highlighting the special use of Christ's absence in nurturing humility, hunger, and faith, and emphasizing the challenge of sanctification and mortification of lusts in Christianity. He also addresses the concept of reprobates and their access to Christ, explaining God's sovereign free-will in justice, the command for reprobates to believe in Christ despite not being saved, and the distinction between relying on Christ and believing He died for them personally.
Suddenness of Change
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:5MRK 1:12ROM 5:3JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles E. Cowman preaches about the significance of being led into the wilderness by the Spirit, following moments of divine favor and blessing. He emphasizes that times of deep depression often follow moments of great spiritual highs, serving as a necessary part of the spiritual journey. The sudden change from blessing to wilderness is a testament to God's preparation for life's challenges and the strength He provides for difficult times. Cowman highlights that after moments of spiritual elevation, one becomes equipped to face the trials and battles that come their way, ultimately leading to triumph and increased spiritual growth.
How to Get the Best Out of Your Trial
By Michael Durham0ISA 50:10MAT 13:21ROM 5:3ROM 8:282CO 12:9HEB 12:11JAS 1:2JAS 4:71PE 1:6Michael Durham preaches on the transformative power of tribulations in our lives, emphasizing that God uses suffering and pain to develop perseverance, character, and hope in us. He explains that the purpose of trials is to expose our weaknesses and selfishness, leading us to rely on God rather than ourselves. Durham highlights the importance of transferring our hope from self-reliance to complete trust in God, allowing Him to shape us for His glory both in this life and the next.
Pruned to Yield Fruit
By Charles E. Cowman0JHN 15:2ROM 5:3HEB 12:11JAS 1:21PE 1:6Charles E. Cowman preaches about the pruning process in the life of a believer, drawing inspiration from John 15:2. He shares a story of a child of God who questioned the afflictions in her life, only to receive a profound message from the Heavenly Gardener through a vineyard. The message highlights the necessity of pruning for growth and the purpose behind trials and suffering in our lives, emphasizing that it is through the pruning of God's love that we can bear much fruit.
Temptations Can Be Opportunities
By Mary Wilder Tileston0ROM 5:3JAS 1:21PE 1:6Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of viewing temptations as opportunities for growth and character development. Just as a soldier is stimulated by being called to the front, believers should be thrilled by the challenges that come their way, as they provide a chance to prove themselves worthy of great trust. Every trial and temptation, when faced in the path of duty, has the potential to refine one's character and fill their soul with the power of Heaven.
The Rainbow in the Clouds (31 Day Devotional)
By John MacDuff0GEN 9:16EXO 3:7EXO 33:14DEU 23:25JOB 1:21PSA 35:27PSA 93:1ISA 32:2ISA 57:1JER 31:3HOS 13:14MAL 3:6JHN 13:7ROM 8:32TIT 2:13HEB 12:61PE 1:6John MacDuff preaches about the unchanging and everlasting love of God, assuring believers that all trials and tribulations are part of God's eternal plan of love and redemption. He emphasizes the sovereignty of God, His loving purpose in prosperity and adversity, the safe refuge found in Christ during life's storms, the reason for divine chastisement as a sign of God's love, and the immutability of God's character and promises. MacDuff encourages believers to trust in God's divine sympathy, gracious conditions, and the blessed hope of Christ's return, reminding them of the ultimate victory over death and the eternal rest and deliverance promised to those who love God.
Fuel to Your Lusts, and Quenchers of Your Graces
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual GrowthTrials and Temptations1PE 1:6Thomas Brooks emphasizes that severe providences and fiery trials are divinely designed to prevent sin and preserve the soul from spiritual decay. He illustrates how wealth can lead to significant temptations and spiritual lethargy, citing biblical figures like David and Solomon who fell into sin during times of abundance. Brooks encourages believers to recognize that the removal of worldly distractions is a mercy that helps maintain their spiritual health. He urges the faithful to seek sanctification through trials, aiming for the mortification of sins and a deeper communion with God. Ultimately, he asserts that being preserved from even the smallest sin is a greater blessing than worldly riches.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherein ye greatly rejoice - Some refer wherein, εν ᾡ, to the salvation mentioned above; others, to the last time, καιρῳ εσχατῳ, in Pe1 1:5; others think that it applies to the being kept by the power of God through faith; and others, that it refers to all the preceding advantages and privileges. It was in the present salvation of God that they rejoiced or gloried, though not without having an eye to the great recompense of reward. Though now for a season - Ολιγον αρτι· A little while yet - during your pilgrimage here below, which is but a point when compared with eternity. If need be - Ει δεον εστι· If it be necessary - if your situation and circumstances be such that you are exposed to trials and persecutions which you cannot avoid, unless God were to work a miracle for your deliverance, which would not be for your ultimate good, as he purposes to turn all your trials and difficulties to your advantage. Sometimes there is a kind of necessity that the followers of God should be afflicted; when they have no trials they are apt to get careless, and when they have secular prosperity they are likely to become worldly-minded. "God," said a good man, "can neither trust me with health nor money; therefore I am both poor and afflicted." But the disciples of Christ may be very happy in their souls, though grievously afflicted in their bodies and in their estates. Those to whom St. Peter wrote rejoiced greatly, danced for joy, αγαλλιασθε, while they were grieved, λυπηθεντες, with various trials. The verb λυπεω signifies to grieve, to make sorrowful: perhaps heaviness is not the best rendering of the original word, as this can scarcely ever consist with rejoicing; but to be sorrowful on account of something external to ourselves, and yet exulting in God from a sense of his goodness to us, is quite compatible: so that we may say with St. Paul, always sorrowing, yet still rejoicing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Wherein--in which prospect of final salvation. greatly rejoice--"exult with joy": "are exuberantly glad." Salvation is realized by faith (Pe1 1:9) as a thing so actually present as to cause exulting joy in spite of existing afflictions. for a season--Greek, "for a little time." if need be--"if it be God's will that it should be so" [ALFORD], for not all believers are afflicted. One need not invite or lay a cross on himself, but only "take up" the cross which God imposes ("his cross"); Ti2 3:12 is not to be pressed too far. Not every believer, nor every sinner, is tried with afflictions [THEOPHYLACT]. Some falsely think that notwithstanding our forgiveness in Christ, a kind of atonement, or expiation by suffering, is needed. ye are in heaviness--Greek, "ye were grieved." The "grieved" is regarded as past, the "exulting joy" present. Because the realized joy of the coming salvation makes the present grief seem as a thing of the past. At the first shock of affliction ye were grieved, but now by anticipation ye rejoice, regarding the present grief as past. through--Greek, "IN": the element in which the grief has place. manifold--many and of various kinds (Pe1 4:12-13). temptations--"trials" testing your faith.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherein ye greatly rejoice,.... The Vulgate Latin version reads, "in which ye shall rejoice": and so the Syriac version, adding, "for ever"; and refer these words to the "last time"; or, times spoken of in the preceding verse; when the saints will greatly rejoice, being in full possession of eternal salvation; in distinction from the present time, in which they are in heaviness; but it is better to read the words in the present tense, and as expressive of the saints in this life, who are blessed with that fruit of the Spirit, joy, and have always reason to rejoice, and greatly rejoice. The connection is with the whole that goes before; and the sense is this, that regenerated persons rejoice, in that they are the elect of God, according to his everlasting love towards them, and free grace, and good will; in their regeneration, which is an evidence of their election of God; in the abundant mercy of God displayed in their regeneration; and in that lively hope of eternal life which is the effect of it; and in the resurrection of Christ from the dead, which secures their justification of life, and their resurrection from the dead; and in the inheritance they are born heirs unto; and in their preservation to it by the power of God through faith; and in that complete salvation which is ready for them, and in a short time will be revealed, to which they are kept: though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness, through manifold temptations. This seems to be a contrast, but is no real contradiction; for the character of the saints in this world is, that they are as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing, Co2 6:10 rejoicing even in their tribulations and temptations; yea, for them, and on account of them, in some respects, which in others make them sorrowful, and heavy, or "heavy" with sorrow: the cause of this heaviness is not only indwelling corruptions, the hidings of God's face, and the temptations of Satan, but afflictions and persecutions, which are here meant by "manifold temptations"; for not the temptations or to sin, are here intended, but the temptations with which God tempts and tries his people: so he sometimes does, by calling them to hard service, to do things difficult and disagreeable to flesh and blood, in which way he tempted Abraham; and by laying afflictions, or suffering afflictions to come upon them, by which he tried Job; and by permitting wicked men to reproach and persecute them, and to injure them in their characters, persons, and properties; and which was the case of the primitive Christians, and has been more or less the case of the saints ever since: now such exercises are called, from the quality of them, temptations, or trials; because they try the hearts, principles, and graces of them that believe, and particularly their faith hereafter mentioned; and from the quantity of them, they are said to be various; they are of different sorts; as reproach, imprisonment, loss of goods, and death itself in divers shapes; and are more or less at different times and ages; and are exercised on various persons: and are sometimes very heavy, and grievous to be borne, and cause great heaviness and sorrow of heart; and yet there are things, and circumstances, and which are here hinted at, that greatly mitigate the heaviness occasioned by them; as, that these afflictions, and the heaviness that comes by them, are but little, and light, in comparison of the eternal weight of glory; though they are great tribulations in themselves, through and out of which the people of God come to the kingdom; and so the Syriac version renders it, "though at this time" "ye are a little made sorrowful"; and then it is only "now", for the present time, and but for a short time; for a little season, even for a moment, comparatively speaking; and also, "if need be", which the Syriac version omits, though by all means to be retained: afflictive dispensations, in whatsoever form, are necessary, by the will of God, who has appointed them, and therefore must be, and ought to be, quietly submitted to, and patiently borne, on that consideration; and are also necessary, on account of Christ the head, to whom there must be a conformity of his members; and likewise on their own account; for the humbling of their souls; for the weaning of them from the things of this world; for the restraining, subduing, and keeping under the corruptions of their nature; and for the trial of grace: and it is only "if", and when there is a necessity for them, that they are in heaviness by them; otherwise God does not delight to afflict and grieve the children of men, and much less his own; see Lam 3:33 so the Jews say (y), that "there was a necessity" of God's tempting Abraham as he did, to humble and purify him, (y) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 22. 1.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The first word, wherein, refers to the apostle's foregoing discourse about the excellency of their present state, and their grand expectations for the future. "In this condition you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, or a little while, if need be, you are made sorrowful through manifold temptations," Pe1 1:6. I. The apostle grants they were in great affliction, and propounds several things in mitigation of their sorrows. 1. Every sound Christian has always something wherein he may greatly rejoice. Great rejoicing contains more than an inward placid serenity of mind or sensation of comfort; it will show itself in the countenance and conduct, but especially in praise and gratitude. 2. The chief joy of a good Christian arises from things spiritual and heavenly, from his relation to God and to heaven. In these every sound Christian greatly rejoices; his joy arises from his treasure, which consists of matters of great value, and the title to them is sure. 3. The best Christians, those who have reason greatly to rejoice, may yet be in great heaviness through manifold temptations. All sorts of adversities are temptations, or trials of faith, patience, and constancy. These seldom go singly, but are manifold, and come from different quarters, the effect of all which is great heaviness. As men, we are subject to sorrows, personal and domestic. As Christians, our duty to God obliges us to frequent sorrow: and our compassion towards the miserable, the dishonour done to God, the calamities of his church, and the destruction of mankind, from their own folly and from divine vengeance, raise, in a generous and pious mind, almost continual sorrow. I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart, Rom 9:2. 4. The afflictions and sorrows of good people are but for a little while, they are but for a season; though they may be smart, they are but short. Life itself is but for a little while, and the sorrows of it cannot survive it; the shortness of any affliction does much abate the heaviness of it. 5. Great heaviness is often necessary to a Christian's good: If need be, you are in heaviness. God does not afflict his people willingly, but acts with judgment, in proportion to our needs. There is a conveniency and fitness, nay, an absolute necessity in the case, for so the expression signifies: it must be; therefore no man should be moved by these afflictions. For yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto, Th1 3:3. These troubles, that lie heavy, never come upon us but when we have need, and never stay any longer than needs must. II. He expresses the end of their afflictions and the ground of their joy under them, Pe1 1:7. The end of good people's afflictions is the trial of their faith. As to the nature of this trial, it is much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire. The effect of the trial is this, it will be found unto praise, honour, and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. Note, 1. The afflictions of serious Christians are designed for the trial of their faith. God's design in afflicting his people is their probation, not their destruction; their advantage, not their ruin: a trial, as the word signifies, is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith. This trial is made upon faith principally, rather than any other grace, because the trial of this is, in effect, the trial of all that is good in us. Our Christianity depends upon our faith; if this be wanting, there is nothing else that is spiritually good in us. Christ prays for this apostle, that his faith might not fail; if that be supported, all the rest will stand firm; the faith of good people is tried, that they themselves may have the comfort of it, God the glory of it, and others the benefit of it. 2. A tried faith is much more precious than tried gold. Here is a double comparison of faith and gold, and the trial of the one with the trial of the other. Gold is the most valuable, pure, useful, and durable, of all the metals; so is faith among the Christian virtues; it lasts till it brings the soul to heaven, and then it issues in the glorious fruition of God for ever. The trial of faith is much more precious than the trial of gold; in both there is a purification, a separation of the dross, and a discovery of the soundness and goodness of the things. Gold does not increase and multiply by trial in the fire, it rather grows less; but faith is established, improved, and multiplied, by the oppositions and afflictions that it meets with. Gold must perish at last - gold that perisheth; but faith never will. I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not, Luk 22:32. The trial of faith will be found to praise, and honour, and glory. Honour is properly that esteem and value which one has with another, and so God and man will honour the saints. Praise is the expression or declaration of that esteem; so Christ will commend his people in the great day, Come, you blessed of my Father, etc. Glory is that lustre wherewith a person, so honoured and praised, shines in heaven. Glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, Rom 2:10. If a tried faith be found to praise, honour, and glory, let this recommend faith to you, as much more precious than gold, though it be assaulted and tried by afflictions. If you make your estimate either from present use or the final event of both, this will be found true, however the world may take it for an incredible paradox. 4. Jesus Christ will appear again in glory, and, when he does so, the saints will appear with him, and their graces will appear illustrious; and the more they have been tried the more bright they will then appear. The trial will soon be over, but the glory, honour, and praise will last to eternity. This should reconcile you to your present afflictions: they work for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. III. He particularly commends the faith of these primitive Christians upon two accounts: - 1. The excellency of its object, the unseen Jesus. The apostle had seen our Lord in the flesh, but these dispersed Jews never did, and yet they believed in him, Pe1 1:8. It is one thing to believe God, or Christ (so the devils believe), and another thing to believe in him, which denotes subjection, reliance, and expectation of all promised good from him. 2. On account of two notable productions or effects of their faith, love and joy, and this joy so great as to be above description: You rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. Learn, (1.) The faith of a Christian is properly conversant about things revealed, but not seen. Sense converses with things sensible and present; reason is a higher guide, which by sure deductions can infer the operation of causes, and the certainty of events; but faith ascends further still, and assures us of abundance of particulars that sense and reason could never have found out, upon the credit of revelation; it is the evidence of things not seen. (2.) True faith is never alone, but produces a strong love to Jesus Christ. True Christians have a sincere love to Jesus, because they believe in him. This love discovers itself in the highest esteem for him, affectionate desires after him, willingness to be dissolved to be with him, delightful thoughts, cheerful services and sufferings, etc. (3.) Where there are true faith and love to Christ there is, or may be, joy unspeakable and full of glory. This joy is inexpressible, it cannot be described by words; the best discovery is by an experimental taste of it; it is full of glory, full of heaven. There is much of heaven and the future glory in the present joys of improved Christians; their faith removes the causes of sorrow, and affords the best reasons for joy. Though good people sometimes walk in darkness, it is often owing to their own mistakes and ignorance, or to a fearful or melancholy disposition, or to some late sinful conduct, or perhaps to some sad occurrence of providence, that sinks their comfort for the present, yet they have reason to rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of their salvation, Hab 3:18. Well might these primitive Christians rejoice with the joy unspeakable, since they were every day receiving the end of their faith, the salvation of their souls, Pe1 1:9. Note, [1.] The blessing they were receiving: The salvation of their souls (the more noble part being put for the whole man), which salvation is here called the end of their faith, the end wherein faith terminates: faith helps to save the soul, then it has done its work, and ceases for ever. [2.] He speaks of the present time: You are now actually receiving the end of your faith, etc. [3.] The word used alludes to the games at which the conqueror received or bore away from the judge of the contest a crown or reward, which he carried about in triumph; so the salvation of the soul was the prize these Christians sought for, the crown they laboured for, the end they aimed at, which came nearer and more within their reach every day. Learn, First, Every faithful Christian is daily receiving the salvation of his soul; salvation is one permanent thing, begun in this life, not interrupted by death, and continued to all eternity. These believers had the beginnings of heaven in the possession of holiness and a heavenly mind, in their duties and communion with God, in the earnest of the inheritance, and the witness of the divine Spirit. This was properly urged to these distressed people; they were on the losing side in the world, but the apostle puts them in the mind of what they were receiving; if they lost an inferior good, they were all the while receiving the salvation of their souls. Secondly, It is lawful for a Christian to make the salvation of his soul his end; the glory of God and our own felicity are so connected that if we regularly seek the one we must attain the other.