Don Moen - Goodness of God

Study of 1 & 2 Peter: Chapter 1 Verses 6-10...

 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they do not make you useless nor unproductive in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For the one who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brothers and sisters, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choice of you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble;

Verse 6

This verse continues from verse 5.

25 But as he was discussing righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix became frightened and responded, “Go away for now, and when I have an opportunity, I will summon you.” Acts 24:25

Verse 7

Verse 7 continues from Verse 6.

10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, Romans 12:10

Verse 8

These are the qualities we are supposed to have.

They do not make us useless nor unproductive in the True knowledge of Jesus Christ.

10 so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Verse 9

If we do not have these qualities we are blind or short-sighted.

We are to show evidence of these things in our lives.

If we do show these qualities we have forgotten our purification from former sins.

11 But the one who hates his brother or sister is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes. 1 John 2:11

Verse 10

Brothers and sisters refer to people in Christ.

we are to make every effort to confirm His calling and choice for you.

10 My friends, you must do all you can to show God has really chosen and selected you. If you keep on doing this, you won't stumble and fall. 2 Peter 1:10 CEV

For if we do these things we will never fall or as the verse says stumble.

14 For many are called, but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14

Study of 1 & 2 Peter: Chapter 1 Verses 1-5...

Growth in Christian Virtue

1 Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,

To those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our

God and Savior, Jesus Christ: 2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of

God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 for His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to

life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and

excellence. 4 Through these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so 

that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption 

that is in the world on account of lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in 

your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 

Verse 1

The book opens with Peter a Bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ talking about those who 

have received faith by the righteousness of God and savior, Jesus Christ.

1 Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, [a]called as an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, Romans 1:1

Verse 2

Grace and peace be accomplished, given, fill your lives, and abundance are just some of the 

other words to used instead of multiplied.

In the knowledge of Jesus Christ our Lord.

7 to all who are beloved of God in Rome, called as saints: Grace to you and peace from God 

our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:7

Verse 3

Given us everything we need pertaining to life.

This refers to everything we need in life.

Through the knowledge of Jesus who called us by His glory and excellence- see God.

5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in 

the last time. 1 Peter 1:5

Verse 4

He has granted us promises.

Partakers of the divine nature means to be conformed to God.

The corruption of lust refers to the destruction and wickedness of human nature.

9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you,

not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Verse 5

Then it moves on in this verse after talking about lust to talk about what to apply and supply in 

your life.

11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ 

will be abundantly supplied to you. 2 Peter 1:11

 

Study of Peter 1 & 2: 2 Peter Chapter 2 Verse 14...

As we start 2 book of peter God gave me this to start off the study of 2 Peter

Double-minded

14 having eyes full of adultery that never cease from sin, enticing unstable souls, having hearts trained in greed, accursed children; 2 Peter 2:14

8 being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James 1:8

8 Come close to God and He will come close to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8

The first verse tells things that make us double-minded.

The second verse tells us that a double-minded person is unstable.

The third verse tells us what to do to get rid of being double-minded.

Strongs dictionary says Doubleminded comes from the word dipsuchos meaning two-spirited, wavering, uncertain, doubting, and divided in interest.

So, we know what double-minded is.

Are you double-minded in any area of your life?

Or are you just double-minded period?

Do you know that you are? Ask people today to find out.

What does this take to overcome this spirit.

6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6

Be Humble

To overcome double-mindedness and with anything we need to be humble to receive it, so God can work in us to change.

So if this is you, pray this prayer:

In Jesus Name, I pray for me to have a humble heart

I pray that You humble me so that I will be made perfect in your sight

God help to me overcome double-mindedness

God, I pray for protection surrounding this

Keep our negativity, bad spirits, and the devil himself away from this

In Jesus Name, I thank and praise for this

Amen

Study of 1 & 2 Peter: 1 Peter Reflection Conclusion Continued...

What have you learned from 1 Peter?

Was it something new or something you knew already and were reminded of?

Has this book impacted your life in some way?

This morning, I was drawn to 1 Peter 5:5, 5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble. 

But it wasn't just verse 5, It was Chapter 5 of 1 Peter that God had for me read this morning.

I needed that verse and those verses this morning.

The why I needed them is personal.

But I mention it because what things and stuff I share, I also get stuff out of it as well.

God speaks to me in the same stuff I hope He speaks to you.

With That I share the last chapter 1 Peter Chapter 5...

Serve God Willingly

5 Therefore, I urge elders among you, as your fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and one who is also a fellow partaker of the glory that is to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not with greed but with eagerness; 3 nor yet as domineering over those assigned to your care, but by proving to be examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. 5 You [g]younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time, 7 having cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares about you. 8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 So resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brothers and sisters who are in the world. 10 After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.

12 Through Silvanus, our faithful brother (for so I regard him), I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it! 13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does my son, Mark. 14 Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Peace be to you all who are in Christ.

Study of 1 & 2 Peter: 1 Peter Reflection Conclusion...

We are to serve God willingly.

Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 1 Peter 5:2

Not out of duty but our wanting to serve God.

You are serving the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:24

We are called to do this if we call ourselves Christians, to serve Christ.

God gave us good works so that we would serve Him and others willingly.

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

Then the final theme is we are to share the suffering of Christ.

Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 2:3

We are to Suffer as Christ suffered as Followers of Jesus Christ.

We are to do this with joy not sadness.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, James 1:2

But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13

Tomorrow we will continue our study of Peter with 2 book of Peter...

Study of 1 & 2 Peter: 1 Peter Reflection...

As we get ready to start 2 Peter.

I want to reflect on 1 Peter.

The key things from this book are Godly living, serve God willingly, and share the suffering of Christ.

We are to be subject to wife's and to our husbands.

3 In the same way, you wives, be subject to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won over without a word by the behavior of their wives,

7 You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

We are to be humble sums up the first part of living Godly.

8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble;

I want to pause before we go any further and say humble becomes before anything you do.

An example of this is James 4:6, 6 But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

We have to be humble to get and do what the verse next after 6 says.

7 Submit therefore to God. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

We are to be humble in all that we do, say and how we live.

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, Colossians 3:12

Right here it tells that we are to have/ do this daily not because it says daily but because it says put on.

Verse after verse in the Bible talks about being humble.

We are to be Humble before God. But more importantly we are to Humble in all that we do.

Our wives, our husbands are example from 1 Peter.

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you. James 4:10

Be Humble today!!!!

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 5 Verses 11-14...

11 To Him be dominion forever and ever. Amen.

12 Through Silvanus, our faithful brother (for so I regard him), I have written to you briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it! 13 She who is in Babylon, chosen together with you, sends you greetings, and so does my son, Mark. 14 Greet one another with a kiss of love.

Peace be to you all who are in Christ.

Verse 11

Dominion means to have authority or rule over people or situations in the Bible.

Him meaning Jesus/God have rule forever and ever.

Amen means to be in agreement with what was said.

36 For from Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.

Verse 12

Through Silvanus, he preached to them.

Faithful brother refers to him as faithful so they would receive him more readily.

The rest of the verse talks about preaching the true grace of God and then standing for that preaching.

19 For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us—by me and Silvanus and Timothy—was not yes and no, but has been yes in Him. 2 Corinthians 1:19

Verse 13

She is the Church at Babylon.

Chosen together with you- a branch of God's chosen people.

Send greetings from that church.

From what I read they are unsure if this is John Mark but that is what they are saying whom Peter is referring to.

My son may refer to it as I read affectionate reference. 

12 And when he realized this, he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John, who was also called Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying. Acts 12:12

Verse 14

Greet one another with a kiss

The ASV says salute another says warm greeting.

This all just means to greet them with a special greeting.

Then the last part of the verse talks about peace to all who are in God.

16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you. Romans 16:16

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 5 Verse 6-10...

6 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you at the proper time, 7 having cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares about you. 8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 So resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brothers and sisters who are in the world. 10 After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

Verse 6

We must humble ourselves.

Under the mighty hand of God, there is no specific answer to what that exactly means.

From what I researched in that part of the verse things came up like His chastisement he depresses the proud and exalts the humble (Jamieson-Fausset Brown Bible Commentary), another says God's omnipotence which is sometimes called a strong hand (Matthew Poole's Commentary) and the final one I will share is the calamity which he brought upon them (Barnes' Notes on the Bible.

So, we know that the last part of this verse is from God, from what we read we can see that.

12 Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted. Matthew 23:12

Verse 7

We are to cast our anxiety on Him because He cares for us. 

Cast your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you;

He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. Psalm 55:22

Verse 8

Be of sober spirit put another way in Mounce's Bible, it says be sober-minded! Be alert!

The devil prowls around to see who he can devour. 

Prowls- walks.

devour to hurt or destroy.

13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13

Verse 9

Resist the devil by being firm in your faith.

Knowing that other Christians like you are suffering the same things you are is what the last part of this verse is talking about.

7 Submit therefore to God. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

Verse 10

You will suffer for a little according to this verse but the God of grace who has called you will perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

In the Amplified Bible, it goes on to say making you what you ought to be.

That makes sense that we will suffer then God will make us as we want us to be.

6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 1 Peter 1:6

Study of Peter 1& 2: Chapter 5 Verses 1-5...

5 Therefore, I urge elders among you, as your fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and one who is also a fellow partaker of the glory that is to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not with greed but with eagerness; 3 nor yet as domineering over [c]those assigned to your care, but by proving to be examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. 5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God is opposed to the proud, but He gives grace to the humble. 1 Peter 1:1-5

Verse 1

Elders of the church refer to the office of the church according to this verse.

Peter was an elder is who he is talking about as a fellow elder.

The suffering of Christ refers to the testimony of the suffering not just that they saw what was going on or an eye-witness.

Glory revealed is talking about Christ's last coming meaning Jesus comes again.

30 And they did this, sending it [a]with Barnabas and Saul to the elders. Acts 11:30

Verse 2

Shepherd the flock refers to the congregation of the church.

Then it goes on to talk about taking care of the congregation.

Then it goes to say that it's not because you have to do this but because you want to do this.

They needed to this this according to God's will.

one version not for money another says not for mere pay 

But then one verse says out of a desire to serve and another says ready mind.

They needed to be ready to serve not out of duty but voluntary.

16 He said to him again, a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.”

Verse 3

The elders were not to rule over the people but to be examples to the people in their church.

3 You eat the fat and clothe yourselves with the wool, you slaughter the fat sheep [a]without feeding the flock. Ezekiel 34:3

Verse 4

Chief Shepherd appears refers to Jesus Christ.

You shall receive a Crown of Glory, a crown that will not fade away.

25 For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls. 1 peter 2:25

Verse 5

Young men are to be subject, or some say submit, to obey the elders of their Church.

Clothing yourselves means putting on humbleness.

 Then once we are clothed with humbleness we are to do this towards one another.

God does not like the proud/pride.

God loves the humble.

26 But it is not this way for you; rather, the one who is the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like the servant. Luke 22:26

Study of Peter 1& 2: Chapter 4 Verses 16-19...

16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins [b]with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner? 19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God are to entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Verse 16

If we suffer, we are not to be ashamed of this suffering.

In this name, it means to literally to glorify God in His name.

41 So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. Acts 5:41

Verse 17

Judgment is beginning with God's people.

Household of God means God's people. 

This judgment begins with us as Christians.

Then the verse talks about what shall be the end for the people who do not obey God.

29 For behold, I am beginning to inflict disaster on this city which is called by My name, so should you be completely free from punishment? You will not be free from punishment, for I am summoning a sword against all the inhabitants of the earth,” declares the Lord of armies.’ Jeremiah 25:29

Verse 18

Some versions use the word hard instead of difficulty.

If it is hard for us to be saved as the righteous.

Then the verse turns to what will become to the people who are godless and sinners. 

31 If the righteous will be repaid on the earth,

How much more the wicked and the sinner! Proverbs 11:31

Verse 19

This verse is talking about putting our trust of our soul in God to do what is right.

17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 1 Peter 3:17

Study of Peter: Prayer-Faith & Take Time...

Dear God, please take away all things that don't lead to the faith we are supposed to have

They must go in the mighty name of Jesus

God help us to recognize the things that keep us from our faith and help us to cut it off

Sanctify our faith today God and help us to have the faith you gave us and then help us to live that faith our daily 

Let us cut off the spirit of our flesh and live in your faith today

Let no evil, devil, or demon be able to have a hand in our faith

Let all evil flee in the mighty name of Jesus

All evil must flee at the sound of this prayer

God, I thank you and praise you for this

In Jesus Name

Amen

Take time to pray this prayer!!!

Take time today to faith check (to see what keeps you from having faith God wants you to have)!!!

Study of Peter: Walk on Water...

I got this question and idea from God.

Could you walk on water?

And He said, “Come!” And Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. Matthew 14:19

Peter had the faith to walk on water.

And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23

Do you believe you could walk on water I ask again?

Lately, I believe I could.

All this takes is faith.

To have faith we have to believe.

Believing+ faith= our faith.

Take time to ponder this question today!!!

And take a faith check today!!!

Do you have the faith to walk on water?

or as the other verse says to move mountains.

Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Mark 11:23

Moi - Te Agrada Ti / It Pleases You live at Calvary Chapel

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 4 Verses 11-15...

11 Whoever speaks is to do so as one who is speaking actual words of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you; 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that at the revelation of His glory you may also rejoice and be overjoyed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory, and of God, rests upon you. 15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler;

Verse 11

We are to have the mouth and the voice that God had, speak that way.

This goes with how we are to serve; we are to serve not by our strength but by God's strength.

So that in all things God would get the glory which is due to him forever and ever. 

Amen means a declaration of affirmation, so be it, hearty approval, solemn ratification. 

Verse 12

Do not be surprised by trials for they will come to test you.

Something that did not happen to others or something that was unusual to you is what the second part of the verse is referring to.

Verse 13

Degree- be a part of Christ's suffering.

Keep on rejoicing in this so that at the revelation of His Glory you may rejoice and be overjoyed.

Revelation- His glory will be revealed.

Verse 14

Mocked as one Bible version puts you are blessed because of it.

This happens because the spirit of the glory and of God rests upon you.

Verse 15

This verse lists the things we are not to suffer as this verse goes along with verse 16 which we will talk about tomorrow.

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 4: 6-10...

6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as people, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.

7 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. 8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Be hospitable to one another without complaint. 10 As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the multifaceted grace of God.

Verse 6

The Gospel was preached to those who are dead and refers to a spiritual death, not actual death.

The next part of the verse goes on to talk about being judged in the flesh.

Put another way the Contemporary English Versions say, judged for what they have done in life.

English standard version says, judged in the flesh the way people are.

This is the treatment they received in the flesh from people who are in the flesh according to Barnes' Notes on the Bible.

Verse 7

The end is near and then goes to list the things we need to do to be ready like be sober in spirit.

Verse 8

Above all constant, earnestly, warmly, deeply, true, steadily, and unselfishly....

All these words point out that we need to love one another with some urgency and obedience.

Love covers a multitude of sins.

Verse 9

Be welcoming, friendly, gracious, polite, and thoughtful are other words that can describe hospitable.

We need to do this without complaining about it.

Verse 10

Special Gifts means the spiritual gifts God has given us.

  6 However, since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to use them properly: if prophecy, in proportion to one’s faith; 7 if service, in the act of serving; or the one who teaches, in the act of teaching; 8 or the one who exhorts, in the work of exhortation; the one who gives, with generosity; the one who is in leadership, with diligence; the one who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

We are to use our Spiritual Gifts to serve others as good stewards.

We are to do this because of the manifold grace of God put another way in several Bibles.

Manifold according to the Oxford Dictionary says. many and various.

According to the Bible, we are using it means the same thing there are many graces of God.

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 4 Verses 1-5...

4 Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2 so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human lusts, but for the will of God. 3 For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of indecent behavior, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties, and wanton idolatries. 4 In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them in the same excesses of debauchery, and they slander you; 5 but they will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

Verse 1

Christ being Jesus was beaten in the flesh and died on the cross for our sins. 

This verse then refers to we need to do the same.

Our flesh needs to die.

21 For you have been called for this purpose, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps, 1 Peter 2:21

Verse 2

So, for the rest of our lives, we need to put to death the flesh and live for the will of God.

2 Far from it! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. Romans 6:2-4

Verse 3

The first part of this verse where it talks about time already passed refers to the reproof for the sin that they had already committed.

2 You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led. 1 Corinthians 12:2

Then it turns to us

That we are not to do as the desires of the gentiles and that the writer is reproofing us as well of our past sins and that we are not to do that anymore.

In the final part of this verse list the things we should not engage in.

Verse 4

They being gentiles are surprised that you don't do as they do and they slander you meaning they damage your reputation.

18 And do not get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18

Verse 5

They will account for all the things they have done to Him meaning Christ.

He is ready to judge the living and the dead.

42 And He ordered us to preach to the people, and to testify solemnly that this is the One who has been appointed by God as Judge of the living and the dead. Acts 10:42

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 3 Verse 21-22...

 21 Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him.

Verse 21

Baptism now saves you refers to eternal salvation because of Jesus's death and resurrection by our faith that is us by the justification that was bought.

Removal of the flesh is the idea that the body be cleansed externally.

A good Conscience refers to being purified from defilement from the spiritual and external. 

5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

Verse 22

The right hand of God is referring to Jesus. (Jesus ascended into heaven).

The rest of the verse refers to everything is Subject to Him meaning Christ.

19 So then, when the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. Mark 16:19

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 3 Verse 16-20...

 16 and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who disparage your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. 17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 18 For Christ also suffered for sins once for all time, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; 19 in which He also went and made proclamation to the spirits in prison, 20 who once were disobedient when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through the water.

Verse 16

seeking what is Good, righteousness is what it refers to by good conscience.

Slandered refers to speaking evil against you.

Disparage means according to the Oxford Dictionary, to regard or represent as being of little worth.

People who think little of you will be put to shame in Christ.

5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith. 1 Timothy 1:5

Verse 17

If God wills, it is better to suffer to do what is right rather than do what is wrong.

This is saying if we do right, we may suffer for it.

20 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God. 1 peter 2:20

Verse 18

The first part of the verse is referring to Jesus' dying for our sins on the cross.

The just for the unjust refers to Jesus being the just and we being the unjust.

So that we might come to God.

Having our flesh put to death but we are made alive in the spirit.

Flesh meaning our desires and earthly things.

Spirit meaning God's spirit.

21 For you have been called for this purpose, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps, 1 Peter 2:21

Verse 19

By the spirit, Christ went and preached the word to men's souls.

In Prison refers to hell or a representation of hell.

6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as people, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God. 1 Peter 4:6

Verse 20

During the Time of Noah, they were doing wicked and not following God as God waited for them to turn to follow Him.

The rest of the verse refers to the building of the ark and who went into the ark as people (humans, not animals).

This means that the people of this time were doing the same as during the time of Noah.

7 By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. Hebrews 11:7

Healing Prayer!!!

I'm getting in my spirit and God's direction to pray for the sick today:

Dear God, I pray for all the people who are sick today

I do not know what they are going through or the sickness they have

but I pray for them that they would be healed in Jesus' Name

The sickness in their body's must go and never return

As you read this let this prayer wash over you and be healed today!!!

All sicknesses from cancer to stomach pain to broken bones have to go In Jesus's Name

I pray for full healing today in Jesus's name

In faith walk through your healing today!!!

I pray no power of satan, hell, or dominions can't touch this healing today

Protect us from this healing today!!!

I proclaim a day of healing!!!

God, I pray healing reigns today

God send out healing today

Pour out healing today

God, I thank you for people being healed in advance

I give you all the glory and honor for healing

In Jesus Name 

Amen

Gratitude/Worthy of it All /You're Worthy of My Praise (feat. Brandon La...

It blew my mind when she talked about how gratitude and anxiety cannot exist at the same time in the brain. This was proven by science in a study as she said. If you have anxiety or worry Just worship with an attitude of Gratitude!!!! 

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 3 Verses 11-15...

11 He must turn away from evil and do good;

He must seek peace and pursue it.

12 For the eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous,

And His ears attend to their prayer,

But the face of the Lord is against evildoers.”

13 And who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be in dread, 15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect;

Verse 11

From what I researched it does not tell me who he is specifically. One referred to King David.

He could mean husbands as that is what was talked about in the above verses.

But the NIV says they.

I believe this a word to them at the time and for us today to turn from evil and do good.

We must seek peace and pursue it.

14 Turn from evil and do good;

Seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:14

Verse 12

It goes on to further say the eyes of the lord are on those who are righteous.

And then it says His ears will hear their prayers.

But for those who are evildoers the Lord's face is turned against them.

15 The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous,

And His ears are toward their cry for help. Psalm 34:15

Verse 13

Who can harm you if you are doing good meaning God will protect you if you do good.

7 When a person’s ways are pleasing to the Lord,

He causes even his enemies to make peace with him. Proverbs 16:7

Verse 14

But even if you are righteous, you still may suffer but do not be afraid of their intimidation and don't be in dread.

10 “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

Verse 15

Tell us what we are to do instead:

We are to have Jesus in our hearts, be ready to tell people who we have hope in with respect and gentleness.

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, 1 Peter 1:3

Study of Peter 1& 2: Chapter 3 Verse 6-10...

 6 just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord; and you have proved to be her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

7 You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

8 To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble; 9 not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you would inherit a blessing. 10 For, 

“The one who desires life, to love and see good days,

Must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit.

Verse 6

In the first part of the verse, they are giving an example of a wife who obeyed her husband

And we have to prove to be her Children by doing what is right without fear.

We are not to have any fear according to this verse.

This is important because fear is important in our Christian walk.

12 So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I have become old, am I to have pleasure, my lord being old also?” Genesis 18:12

Verse 7

This verse Flips and talks about the husband and the way he is to be toward his wife.

The husband is to show understanding and honor as fellow heirs of the grace of life.

25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, Ephesians 5:25

Verse 8

This list of the things we are to be as a couple as the writer sums it up.

We are to be harmonious, sympathetic, loving compassionate, and humble.

16 Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but [b]associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Romans 12:16

Verse 9

Then verse 9 moves on to what we are not to be.

Returning evil for evil, insult for insult. 

Then moves on to giving blessings instead

These blessings we are to have we were called for the very purpose of inheriting.

17 Never repay evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all people. Romans 12:17

Verse 10

The person who desires life and to love and see good days tongue must be keep from evil and the lips from speaking deceit 

If you want a happy, good life, keep control of your tongue, and guard your lips from telling lies. 1 peter 3:10

12 Who is the person who desires life

And loves length of days, that he may see good? Psalm 34:12

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 3 Verses 1-5

 Godly Living

3 In the same way, you wives, be subject to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won over without a word by the behavior of their wives, 2 as they observe your pure [a]and respectful behavior. 3 Your adornment must not be merely the external—braiding the hair, wearing gold jewelry, or putting on apparel; 4 but it should be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 5 For in this way the holy women of former times, who hoped in God, also used to adorn themselves, being subject to their own husbands,

Verse 1

Just Like men are supposed to be subject to God, women are supposed subject to their husbands.

This is to happen even if they are not following God so that they may see a Godly example and come to God or back to God.

7 You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered. 1 Peter 3:7

Verse 2

This verse continues from verse 1.

As the Husbands observe pure and respectful behavior.

Verse 3

The New Living Translation uses the word beauty instead adornment.

So this means the beauty of the wife is not supposed on the outside 

(This doesn't mean that they are not to look nice just not overdo it).

18 On that day the Lord will take away the beauty of their anklets, headbands, crescent ornaments, Isaiah 3:18 

Verse 4

but in the heart.

It is supposed to have a gentle and quiet spirit.

This type of qualities is precious to God.

22 For I joyfully agree with the law of God in the inner person, Romans 7:22

Verse 5

This verse talks about Holy women of former times who hoped in God and used to make themselves beautiful too much to be subject to their own husbands.

5 Now she who is actually a widow and has been left alone has set her hope on God, and she continues in requests and prayers night and day. 1 Timothy 5:5

Praise (feat. Brandon Lake, Chris Brown & Chandler Moore) | Elevation Wo...

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 2 Verse 21-25...

Christ Is Our Example

21 For you have been called for this purpose, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you would follow in His steps, 22 He who committed no sin, nor was any deceit found in His mouth; 23 and while being abusively insulted, He did not insult in return; while suffering, He did not threaten, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously; 24 and He Himself brought our sins in His body up on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness; by His wounds you were healed. 25 For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

Verse 21

We have been called, to be set apart to live like Christ for He came to be an example to us.

Because He left Himself as an example, we are to live like He did.

22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying, “It is through many tribulations that we must enter the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22

Verse 22

Christ was perfect, so we are to strive to be perfect.

9 And His grave was assigned with wicked men,

Yet He was with a rich man in His death,

Because He had done no violence,

Nor was there any deceit in His mouth. Isaiah 53:9

Verse 23

All that Christ endured and went through He did not sin or stop being perfect.

He kept entrusting His Father in heaven.

7 He was oppressed and afflicted,

Yet He did not open His mouth;

Like a lamb that is led to slaughter,

And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers,

So He did not open His mouth. Isaiah 53:7

Verse 24

He died for us on the cross so we would live a righteous life. 

By the wounds that Christ endured we were healed of our sins.

4 However, it was our sicknesses that He Himself bore,

And our pains that He carried;

Yet we ourselves assumed that He had been afflicted,

Struck down by God, and humiliated. Isaiah 53:4

Verse 25

Straying like sheep refers to that they were still sinning.

Turn to the shepherd is Christ.

Guardian refers to the protector of Souls.

God will protect our souls.

All of us, like sheep, have gone astray,

Each of us has turned to his own way;

But the Lord has caused the wrongdoing of us all

To fall on Him. Isaiah 53:6

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Doing Good...

17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 1 Peter 3:17

Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Psalm 37:3

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10

20 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God. 1 Peter 2:20

The verse above is the last verse we looked at yesterday which led me to share the first verse presented today again.

The idea is that it is not easy to do good.

God wanted to me talk about this before I moved on. it kept coming up in my spirit this morning.

It's not easy to the right thing. 

It's so easier to lie than tell the truth because the truth can get us in trouble but so can lying it is a sin and leads to hell.

We live in a society that is based on doing wrong not what is right.

An example of this people hit cars and just leave or do nothing to say they did it or anything that they did wrong. (I see this at my job).

To do wrong when you know to do right is a sin and will lead you to hell.

For this not to happen, we need to do 3 things:

1. Trust in the Lord.

2. We need to not grow weary, stay the course, and not give up.

3. We need to walk in doing good. 

This is hard I know but we need to pray to God when times get tough and submit to His will.

God will help you do what is right if you rely on Him and trust Him.

Nothing in life is easy but if Jesus can overcome death, we as Christians can most certainly do good.

11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” Acts 1:11

If you struggle with this reach and I will pray for you.

So go forth and do good today In Christ!!!!!

Study Of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 2 Verses 16-20...

16 Act as free people, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bond-servants of God. 17 Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are harsh. 19 For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a person endures grief when suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God.

Verse 16

Free refers to the Jews who were made free by Christ from strangers and from sin.

covering refers to a Cloak which refers to us not covering up our sin or as the verse wickedness.

Bondservants of God refers to we must obey God and the rulers from God.

32 and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:32

Verse 17

Honor men is the duty to God and men.

The brotherhood refers to all men of Christ.

Fear of God refers to obeying every law and all the commandments of God.

Honor the king refers to the people who ruled over the Jews. In the case of the verse, it was the Roman Empire.

10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor, Romans 12:10

Verse 18

Servants refer to slaves or to house servants.

they were to be subject to their masters with all fear.

They were to do good and be gentle.

Harsh in the Original text uses the word froward which means to be free from or not do perverse, deceitful, or false, disobedient things.

5 Slaves, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; Ephesians 6:5

Verse 19

Doing is acceptable to God.

The next part of the verse that talks about Conscience towards God refers to the desire and respect for God.

Endure in Greek mean Patiently bear up under, as imposed burden.

The means griefs according to the Greek.

5 Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience. Romans 13:5

Verse 20

After all, what kind of credit is there if, when you do wrong and are punished for it, you endure it patiently? But if when you do what is right and patiently bear [undeserved] suffering, this finds favor with God. 1 Peter 2:20

17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 1 Peter 3:17

Love Over Legalism Prayer...

This was put in my heart this morning to pray for Love over legalism before we go back to 1 Peter.

Dear God change our hearts and minds to love just like Jesus loved

Open our eyes to see your love and the love we are to have like Jesus

Let the things that are keeping us from love be taken out of our lives

Let legalism and other things of that nature be taken away and never return

Let all hate (Things of that nature) evil, demonic spirits, and all negativities be taken away and never return

help us to put to death the things that are not loving and not of you today

Lord let love rain today in our lives and let us live out love for others

Lord Let Love reign in our lives today and forever

I praise You and thank You God

In Jesus Name

Amen

Love over Legalism...

23 And it happened that He was passing through the grainfields on the Sabbath, and His disciples began to make their way along while picking the heads of grain. 24 The Pharisees were saying to Him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” Mark 2:23-25

Today I got this in spirit to speak about love over legalism. The Pharisees cared more about the law than who they had in their midst. They wanted to legal over loving. 

That is and was me I was legalistic over love. God Didn't send His Son to bring the law down on people but He sent His Son to love people.

10 and behold, a man having a withered hand. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? that they might accuse him. Matthew 12:10 

Again, the pharisees cared more about the law instead of helping/loving that person.

In this season in my life, I would rather love than be legalistic. A church of mine I used to attend said it this way you major on majors and minor on the minors. This means that the major for example Jesus rose again we all have to agree on and adhere to but as to a minor, an example was it a fish or whale that ate Jonah that is up for discussion.

So, let me put it simpler the things we as Christians are to all agree on and there is no argument are:

1. Jesus is the Son of God.

2.  Jesus died and rose again.

3. Jesus sits on the throne in heaven.

4, God is Lord over all.

5. We are to love God with all heart, mind, soul, and strength.

6. We are to love thy neighbor.

7 We are to hate and call out sin.

8. We are to worship and how we are to worship, examples are written in the Bible.

9. That we should pray and how God gives us a model- The Lord's Prayer.

10. The Bible is sovereign.

11, The Bible is living and active.

12. How we ought to live the Bible tells us how.

These things are the majors. As to Baptism we are called to do that but how we are to baptize I struggle with and have not been given enough understanding from God to say one way or another.

Did I miss something let me know?

Everything else is minor and open for discussion.

The fact that I know things helps me to focus on love, not the law.

I am asking you this morning to love over legalism. This is from God because God was love when He sent His only Son to earth to die for our sins.

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

Study of Peter 1 & 2; Chapter 2 Verses 11-15...

 11 Beloved, I urge you as foreigners and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul. 12 Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God on the day of visitation.

Honor Authority

13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, 14 or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. 15 For such is the will of God, that by doing right you silence the ignorance of foolish people.

Verse 11

Strangers and foreigners refers to us as believers. 

Abstain from the fleshy lust meaning the desires and the will of the flesh.

Which will war against you soul -means will come, be prevalent in your soul.

9 But, beloved, we are convinced of better things regarding you, and things that [a]accompany salvation, even though we are speaking in this way. Hebrews 6:9

Verse 12

Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles means having a good attitude, conduct, and manners towards the people who are not of Christ, us as believers.

The verse goes on to talk about all we do that they will slander you as evildoers but because you do good and not evil they will see that you do this they will glorify God on the day of visitation.

The day of visitation is a day when God will call to them through the Gospel to know God.

21 for we have regard for what is honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of other people. 2 Corinthians 8:21

Verse 13

Be subject to every human institution.

King today would be our president.

we are to submit ourselves to that authority. 

13 Every person is to be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Romans 13:1

Verse 14

or Governers meaning governors like those of states.

This him in the verse does not represent God but the king.

Punishment for doing evil in that government.

Praises meaning rewards for governments that do well in the sight of God.

4 for it is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a servant of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Romans 13:4

Verse 15

For doing Good is the will of God and by doing this you will silence the ignorance of foolish people.

Unbelievers being foolish people.

17 For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 1 Peter 3:17

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 2 Verses 6-10...

 6 For this is contained in Scripture:

“Behold, I am laying in Zion a choice stone, a precious cornerstone,

And the one who believes in Him will not be put to shame.”

7 This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for unbelievers,

“A stone which the builders rejected,

This became the chief cornerstone,”

8 and,

“A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense”;

for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this they were also appointed.

9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Verse 6

This verse talks about what was being said in scripture.

Laying in Zion refers to the preaching of the Gospel.

The precious cornerstone or some other versions say the chief cornerstone Is Christ over the whole Church.

And whoever believes in Christ will not be put to shame.

Other versions say confounded or disappointed instead of shame.

We will not be shamed by His salvation and ashamed of His hope.

16 Therefore this is what the Lord [a]God says:

“Behold, I am laying a stone in Zion, a tested stone,

A precious cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed.

The one who believes in it will not be disturbed. Isaiah 28:16

Verse 7

This precious value refers to honor.

An honor who believes in Christ.

Then, the verse turns to unbelievers.

The stone is referring to Christ who they rejected.

Because of this Christ became the head over the church.

16 to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things? 2 Corinthians 2:16

Verse 8

The stone of stumbling refers to the fact that they stumble not because of Christ but because they did not know Him or believe.

They stumbled in the word this is what it is talking about when they were disobedient to the word.

Sin punished by sin, God judgement over the ones who were disobedient to Him. 

14 Then He will become a sanctuary;

But to both houses of Israel, He will be a stone of stumbling and a rock [a]of offense,

And a snare and a trap for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Isaiah 8:14

Verse 9

This says that those who are called Christians are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a Holy nation, a people for God's own possession.

That we may proclaim God who has called us out of the darkness to His marvelous light. 

20 The animals of the field will glorify Me,

The jackals and the ostriches,

Because I have given waters in the wilderness

And rivers in the desert,

To give drink to My chosen people. Isaiah 43:20

Verse 10

Not a people refers to the Church specially the Christian Church. Then the people were a people because the Church was established.

You have now received mercy Because you are God's people.

10 Yet the number of the sons of Israel

Will be like the sand of the sea,

Which cannot be measured or counted;

And in the place

Where it is said to them,

“You are not My people,”

It will be said to them,

“You are the sons of the living God.” Hosea 1:10

Study of Peter 1 & 2: Chapter 2 Verse 1-5...

 As Newborn Babes

2 Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, 2 and like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, 3 if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

As Living Stones

4 And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by people, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, 5 you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Verse 1

When therefore is written it means that this verse is finishing from the last verse or continuing from the last verse.

The verse then goes on to list things we should rid ourselves of malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.

22 that, in reference to your former way of life, you are to rid yourselves of the old [a]self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, Ephesians 4:22

Verse 2

Goes to say that newborn babies are longing for milk that is undefiled but pure.

This is referring to God's word.

This growth that is talked about is about baby Christians or put another way the infant state of the people coming to Christ.

Salvation refers to being grown up or being a mature Christian.

3 and said, “Truly I say to you, unless you change and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3

Verse 3

If you have tasted refers to God's word.

The gracious is God's grace which is, good, kind, or sweet.

Verse 4

Him in this verse is God.

Believing is the coming.

Living refers faith in adherence to God.

Stone refers to the cornerstone of the church, the foundation of the church.

The next part of the verse talks about the people who reject the cornerstone, rejected God, and His word.

The rest of the verse talks about the chosen people of God.

7 This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for unbelievers,

“A stone which the builders rejected,

This became the chief cornerstone,” 1 Peter 2:7

Verse 5

the first part of this verse talks about us living in Christ and in this verse the stone refers to the believers in Christ.

Then it goes on to say that we are built up which refers to being built up in the principles of God.

A spiritual house refers to God's house, I.E the temple of God or the tabernacle.

Holy priesthood refers to the priest.

The last part of the verse talks about giving spiritual sacrifices not one of the flesh that are pleasing and acceptable by God in Jesus Christ.

9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s [a]field, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:9