Now and again I will give a recitation of 1 Peter from memory and I know when the first smiles will cross the faces of those listening: when I reach the end of chapter 1 verse 2: 'Grace and peace be yours in abundance'.
'Grace and peace be yours' – this is standard fare for an epistle. 'In abundance' adds a new dimension.
The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ does not dole out grace and peace in small portions, enough to keep us spiritually alive but no more. He is generous. He has grace and peace for you in abundance and we see this throughout Peter’s letter.
It is abundant grace that has given a salvation so wonderful that we can rejoice greatly in the midst of trials. It is abundant peace to know that our trials will result in more praise, glory and honour when Jesus is revealed. It is abundant grace that leads us out of the evil desires of ignorance and brings us into a life where we can share in the holiness of God. It is abundant peace to know that Christ – the one chosen before the creation of the world – was revealed for your sake. It is abundant grace that means we share in the 'chosen and precious' status of the Son of God, and that we do not simply have the right to enter the temple, but we are the temple of God.
It is abundant grace that we do not simply have the right to enter the temple, but we are the temple of God.
What abundant peace is ours to know that, even if the world rejects us, we are a royal priesthood and God’s special possession.
Does submitting to hostile authorities, or being at the receiving end of insults and threats, feel like a wearisome burden? Know that, in God’s abundant grace, we are following the steps of Christ on the path that leads to eternal glory!
Do you struggle in a marriage with an unbelieving husband?What abundant peace to know that you have, with Christ, an unfading beauty and are of great worth in God’s sight.
It is abundant grace that God has given a variety of forms of grace to the church. And so, as we love one another and practice hospitality, let God’s grace flow through us in abundant ways. Through fiery ordeals, through insults, through suffering as a Christian, there is abundant peace to know that God’s purposes are being achieved and that the very Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
Elders and pastors: do your duty and you will receive the unfading crown of glory from the nail-scarred hands of Jesus the Chief Shepherd. What abundant grace! Those who are anxious: cast your cares on the Lord, who cares for you and who will lift you up in due time. What abundant peace!
As Peter’s letter comes to an end he tells us that he was writing about 'the true grace of God' and he finishes with a benediction of 'Peace to all of you who are in Christ'. If your heart is feeling dry or your mind is bored or apathetic, take up this great letter and read it from beginning to end. Be refreshed in the abundance of God’s grace and peace towards you in Jesus Christ our Lord.
