1 Peter 1:8-9 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

I’ve not studied Greek myself, but since my wife has, I’m well aware that classes in Biblical Greek almost always start with 1 Peter, because of the excellent Greek used by Silus/Silvanus (depending on the translation), who was Peter’s secretary in writing this letter. (1 Peter 5:12) Even though the actual words are his, I don’t think there’s any doubt that the intent, the actual content, is that of Peter. Peter was one of Jesus’ closest disciples, and I get the impression that he was deeply moved by the faith of those who had not had the privilege of walking with Jesus. That said, he knew that God plays no favorites, and His salvation is indeed available to all who will repent and believe. As he spoke this passage he may have been remembering the scene at the house of Cornelius, when he was privileged to be the first to preach the Gospel to Gentiles. (Acts 10) One thing that strikes me in this is that it says “you are receiving the goal of your faith.” (emphasis added) Our salvation isn’t just limited to heaven, it starts the moment we believe and commit ourselves to Jesus as Lord. The fact that there is always more than however much we might experience here on earth is worth remembering, but we don’t have to wait for our salvation. That seems contradictory for those who are suffering for their faith, because we tend to think of salvation in physical terms, however much we might dress it up in “spiritual” language. That’s actually a problem in evangelism, because people often want to be saved out of their immediate circumstances, but once they are clear of the immediate crisis, they aren’t much interested in living in obedience to Jesus as Lord. A major reason God allows crises in our lives is to show us that we need salvation, but we need to recognize that our need goes far beyond, and is far deeper than, whatever crisis we might be in. That’s a point for every believer to remember! That said, the joy of a personal relationship with our unseen Lord is indeed “inexpressible and glorious,” and should motivate us to want to share it with as many people as will accept it.

I have always liked Peter because he was so thoroughly human. If God could use someone like Peter, then He can use even me! I seek to express the joy of the salvation I am receiving, because I know that will draw people to Christ better than anything else. I have had a non-Christian bring his friends to meet me because he wanted them to “meet someone who really enjoys living.” Sadly, in Japan people tend to think I am like I am because I’m an American, and so don’t think they could ever be like me. That has tended to limit the effectiveness of my evangelism, but I’m never to give up. God can use even me, and nothing is impossible for Him. I am to rejoice in God’s salvation and always be ready to share with anyone who asks about it. Given my proclivities, I also need to be careful not to overwhelm them with too much information at once! However, the Holy Spirit will and does guide my words, and I’m to leave things in His hands.

Father, thank You for the joy of Your salvation. It is indeed beyond words! May I share that joy, that salvation, with more and more people, more and more effectively, growing the Body of Christ as You desire, for Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!