3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 1:3-5 (NASB) 中文 

To Him all we owe

It is to God the Father that we owe everything. He is the source. Firstly, of our life, our new life. He has caused us to be born again. It is not of ourselves, it is a gift of God. It’s not by works – so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). And why does He give all these things? Because of His great mercy to us.

Living hope

What kind of hope does the world offer us? Does it offer any hope? Not really. At best, it offers promises about the future with no guarantees – other than “death and taxes”. Even other religions make promises they do not guarantee – except maybe after multiple millions of reincarnations. 

But God gives us hope. And it’s not just a stagnant (and certainly not dead) hope, but a living hope. What is the hope of all followers of Christ? Forgiveness of sins. Eternal life with the Father. Freedom from sin and its effects, an imperishable inheritance. And how do we know it’s true? Christ rose from the dead, the firstfruits of those that are asleep. (v 4 & 1 Corinthians 15:20-23)

Imperishable inheritance

What do we know about this inheritance? It is 

• Imperishable. Everything on this earth will pass away – even earth and Heaven themselves (Matthew 24:35). But the Word of God and our hope will not.
•  Undefiled. Simply stated, it’s pure.
• Will not fade away. How many of us have seen our favorite clothing turn from the deep dark blue or brilliant multi-colors to a faded version of them. It indicates that it’s used. Still usable maybe but not new. This inheritance will never fade; it won’t change.
• Reserved in heaven. Last time you went to a fancy restaurant you made a reservation. Well, Jesus tells us in John 14:1-3 that He has reserved a place for us in Heaven and here it is guaranteed.

Protected

And we are protected by the power of God. What power can overcome that? “Peter was not saying that our faith keeps us saved. He said God’s power keeps us saved. Our faith is the means by which we receive every aspect of our salvation.” (Constable commentary) Think of Psalm 121:7 which says of the Lord, “He will keep our souls.”

RЯeflection

• How do you feel after reading this passage? Are you overwhelmed with thankfulness for what the Father has given us? And all by his grace? Now would be a good time to thank Him and praise him.
• Can you lose what God has given you and is protecting? I think not. Rest in that. Keep your faith firmly placed in this truth.