Abide Together: Reflections on 1 Peter 5, 2 Peter 1 and 2

In 1 Peter 5, Peter exhorts the elders to lovingly shepherd God’s people among them – remembering that one day they will be rewarded by the Chief Shepherd, Jesus. He also exhorts the followers of Jesus to be humble, cast their cares on Christ, be of sober spirit, resist the devil firm in their faith.  He also promises them that their suffering will not last forever, but the God of all grace will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish them.  Lord, help me lovingly shepherd the flock to which You have call me.

In 2 Peter 1, Peter reminds the believers that God has given them everything they need for life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called them by His own glory and excellence.  Later in the chapter he reminds them that this true knowledge of God is found in God’s Word which came about by men moved by the Holy Spirit who spoke from God.  Lord, remind me daily that in Your Word I have everything I need for life and godliness.

In 2 Peter 2, Peter warns of the false teachers who secretly introduce destructive heresies among God’s people. He also reminds them that God will eventually rescue them from these false teachers and their destructive teachings.  Lord, help me discern truth from error through Your Word that I might protect those You have given me.

– Bryan McKenzie