Suffering, Holiness
and Salvation
Wesley's Explanatory
Notes on the 1st Epistle of Peter
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rights reserved to the author.
It is
allowed to read, copy and share for free
Article
184 of the Penal Code and Law 96710 of February 19, 1998.
Author
of the notes: John Wesley
Editor
of this text and author of the book: Odilon Massolar Chaves
Books
published in the Wesleyan Digital Library: 341
Books
published by the author: 451
Booklets:
3
Address: https://www.blogger.com/blog/stats/week/2777667065980939692
Translator:
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All glory to God!
Odilon Massolar Chaves is a
retired Methodist pastor, with a doctorate in Theology and History from the
Methodist University of São Paulo.
His thesis dealt with the
Methodist revival in England in the eighteenth century and its contribution as
a paradigm for our days.
He was editor of the
official Methodist newspaper and coordinator of the Theology Course.
Copyright Statement: These
files are in the public domain and are derived from an electronic edition that
is available on the Ethereal Library of Christian Classics website.[1]
Table of Contents
· Introduction
·
True Predestination
and the Requirements for Salvation
· Living as God's People
· Guidance to wives and husbands. Living in holiness
·
Suffering as a
Christian and Spiritual Gifts
·
Called to shepherd the flock and
to watch
Introduction
"Suffering, Holiness, and Salvation" is based on Wesley's explanatory notes to the 1st epistle of Peter.
The
central purpose of 1 Epistle of Peter is to encourage Christians to face difficulties
and persecutions with firm faith, perseverance, and hope, aiming at holiness of life.
We
are called to live as the People of God, who have been chosen by the Lord.
The general themes of
the chapters are: True predestination and the requirements for salvation;
Living as God's people; Guidance to wives and husbands. To live in holiness;
Suffering as a Christian and spiritual gifts; Called to shepherd the flock and
to watch.
Wesley goes into depth about predestination by commenting on what Peter
wrote: Elect according to the foreknowledge of
God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, to obedience and
sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; grace and peace be multiplied unto
you.
Said Wesley, According to the foreknowledge of God -
Speaking after the manner of men. Strictly speaking, there is no foreknowledge,
no more than foreknowledge, with God: but all things are known to him as gifts
from eternity to eternity.
The true
predestination, or pre-naming of God is:
1. He that believeth shall be saved from the guilt and power of sin —
2. He who endures to the end will be saved eternally –
3. Those who receive the precious
gift of faith thus become children of God.
From 38 pages, in
book format, it reaches 57 pages.
A book with Wesley's notes that is extremely necessary
for our days.
The Author
True Predestination and the Requirements for Salvation
Peter said, "Elect according to the
foreknowledge of God the Father through sanctification by the Spirit to
obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; grace and peace be
multiplied to you."
Said Wesley, According to the foreknowledge of God - Speaking after the manner of men. Strictly speaking, there is no foreknowledge, no more than foreknowledge, with God: but all things are known to him as gifts from eternity to eternity.
Therefore this is but
an example of the divine condescension to our low capacities, said Wesley.
Said Wesley, Elect - By the free love and omnipotent power
of God taken from the world, separated from it. Election, in the scriptural
sense, is God doing anything in which our merit or power has no part.
Wesley speaks of true predestination:1. He who believes will be saved
from the guilt and power of sin – 2. He who endures to the end will be saved
eternally – 3. Those who receive the precious gift of faith thus become
children of God; and being sons, they will receive the Spirit of holiness to
walk as Christ also walked.
On salvation also addressed by Peter, he said: Receiving the end of your faith, yes, the salvation of
your souls.
Wesley speaks of holiness as the qualification, the forerunner, and the
earnest of eternal salvation: "From all sin unto all holiness, which is
the qualification, the forerunner, and the earnest of eternal salvation."
Chapter 1
To scattered foreigners
Thus did Peter begin the epistle: Peter,
an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus,
Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Christians
To the pilgrims - On earth, Christians, especially those of
Jewish origin, said Wesley.
Long ago driven from their own land
Said Wesley, Scattered - Long ago driven out
of their own land. Those dispersed by the persecution mentioned in Acts 8:1 were scattered only
through Judea and Samaria, though afterwards some of them traveled to
Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch.
He names these five provinces in the order in which they occurred to him
A firm Wesley: Through Pontus, Galatia,
Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia - He names these five provinces in
the order in which they occurred to him, writing from the east. All these
countries are in Asia Minor. The Asia here distinguished from the other
provinces is that which was generally called Proconsular Asia, being a Roman
province.
Elected according to the foreknowledge of God
the Father through sanctification of the Spirit to obedience and sprinkling of
the blood of Jesus Christ
Peter said, "Elect according to the
foreknowledge of God the Father through sanctification by the Spirit to
obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ; grace and peace be
multiplied to you."
but all things are known to
him as gifts from everlasting to everlasting
Said Wesley, According to the foreknowledge of God - Speaking after the manner of men. Strictly speaking, there is no foreknowledge, no more than foreknowledge, with God: but all things are known to him as gifts from eternity to eternity.
divine condescension to our
low capacities
Therefore this is but an example of the divine condescension to our low capacities, said Wesley.
Election, in the scriptural
sense, is God doing anything in which our merit or power has no part
Said Wesley, Elect - By the free love and omnipotent power
of God taken from the world, separated from it. Election, in the scriptural
sense, is God doing anything in which our merit or power has no part.
The true predestination, or pre-naming of God is:
1.
He that believeth shall be saved from the guilt and power of sin —
2.
He who endures to the end will be saved eternally –
3. Those who receive the precious gift of
faith thus become children of God
In every part of this assignment of God, promise and duty go hand in hand
Wesley explained: In every part of this appointment of God, promise and
duty go hand in hand. Everything is a free gift; and yet such is the gift, that
the final issue depends on our future obedience to the heavenly calling.
Not a clear doctrine of scripture
Wesley further explained: But any other predestination besides this,
whether to eternal life or death, the scripture knows not. In addition, it is -
1. Cruel respect for people; an unfair consideration of one and an unfair
disrespect of the other. It is mere partiality of the creature, and not
infinite righteousness - 2. It is not a clear doctrine of scripture, if it is
true; but rather, inconsistent with the express written word, which speaks of
God's universal offers of grace; his invitations, promises, threats, all being
general —
3. We are asked to choose life and rebuked for not doing it - 4. It is
inconsistent with a state of probation in those who are to be saved or are to
be lost - 5. It is of fatal consequence
Wesley explained: 3. We are asked
to choose life and rebuked for not doing it - 4. It is inconsistent with a
state of probation in those who are to be saved or are to be lost - 5. It is of
fatal consequence; All men are ready, for very small reasons, to imagine
themselves of the chosen number.
But the doctrine of predestination is entirely altered from what it was
formerly
Wesley explained: But the doctrine of predestination is entirely altered
from what it was formerly. But it implies neither faith, nor peace, nor purity.
It is something that will dispense with all of them. Faith is no longer,
according to the modern predestinarian scheme, a "divine evidence of
things not seen," wrought in the soul by the immediate power of the Holy
Spirit; no evidence; but a mere notion.
Nor is faith another means of holiness; but something that will do
without him. Christ is no longer a Savior from sin; but a defense, a
countenance of her
Nor is faith another means of holiness; but something that will do
without him. Christ is no longer a Savior from sin; but a defense, a
countenance of hers, said Wesley.
He is no longer a source of spiritual life in the souls of believers,
but leaves his elect inwardly dry and outwardly unfruitful
Wesley explained: He is no longer a fountain of spiritual life in the
souls of believers, but leaves his elect inwardly dry and outwardly unfruitful;
and it is made little more than a refuge from the image of the heavenly; yes,
of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
Through the sanctification of the Spirit
Through the sanctification of the Spirit - Through the
renewing and purifying influences of his Spirit in their souls, said Wesley.
To engage and enable them to yield to all holy obedience, the foundation
of all that is, the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ
Wesley explained: To obedience
- To engage in and enable them to yield to all holy obedience, the foundation
of all that is, the sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ - The atoning blood
of Christ, which was typified by the sprinkling of the blood of sacrifices
under the law; in allusion to what is called "the blood of
sprinkling."
has begotten us again to a living hope by the
resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead
Peter said in the epistle, "Blessed
be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great
mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus
Christ from the dead,
His Father, with respect to
his divine nature; your God, with respect to your human
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ—His Father, with
respect to his divine nature; his God, with respect to his human, said Wesley.
A hope that implies true spiritual life
Who has begotten us again to a living hope—A hope that implies
true spiritual life, that revives the heart and makes the soul alive and
vigorous, Wesley affirmed.
Wesley explained, By the resurrection of
Christ - Which is not only a promise of ours, but a part of the
purchase price. It also has a close connection with our resurrection from
spiritual death, that as he lives, so shall we live with him. He was recognized
as the Christ, but usually called Jesus until his resurrection; so he was also
called Christ.
Wesley commented on the items below:
For if we are children, then heirs
Peter said in the epistle, "For an
inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you,
For an inheritance - For if we are children, then heirs.
Incorruptible - Not as earthly treasures.
Pure and holy, unable to be defiled
Immaculate - Pure and holy, incapable of being defiled
or of being enjoyed by any polluted soul.
That never decays in its value, sweetness, or beauty
And that it does not fade away - That it never
decays in its value, sweetness, or beauty, like all the pleasures of this
world, like the garlands of leaves or flowers, with which the ancient
conquerors used to be crowned, said Wesley.
by patient endurance in doing good
Reserved in heaven for you - That "by
patient perseverance in doing good, seek glory, honor, and immortality."
Who are kept by the power of God through
faith
Who is kept - The inheritance is reserved; the heirs are
kept for it, Wesley said.
That works all in all
By the power of God - Who worketh all in all, who protects us
against all our enemies.
By faith - Through which salvation alone is received
and retained
By faith - By which salvation alone is received and
retained, said Wesley.
Wesley explained: Ready to be revealed
- This revelation is made on the last day. He was more and more ready to be
revealed, since Christ came.
in whom
you rejoice greatly
Peter said, in whom ye rejoice
exceedingly, though now for a time, if need be, ye are troubled by many
temptations;
Wesley explained: In which -
That is, in being thus kept. You yourself now rejoice exceedingly, though now
for a little while - Such is our whole life, compared to eternity.
If necessary - For it is not always necessary. If God sees
that it is the best means for your spiritual gain.
Yes, at this very moment they were rejoicing with joy unspeakable
Thou art in heaviness - Or sorrow; but not in darkness; for they
still kept faith, 1 Peter 1:5, hope and love; Yea, at this very moment they
were rejoicing with joy unspeakable, 1 Peter 1:8.
Even if tried by fire
Peter said, "That the trial of your
faith, which is more precious than gold that perishes, though tried by fire,
may be found in praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ,
That the test of your faith
Wesley briefly commented on the items below:
That the proof of his faith - That is, his faith
that is tried.
Wesley comments on the items below:
Which is far more precious than gold - For gold, though it
endures fire, will yet perish with the world.
Can be found - Although it does not appear yet.
To the praise - Of God himself.
And honor - Of men and angels.
And glory – Awarded by the great Judge.
Peter said, "Whom you have not seen,
you love, in whom, though you do not see him now, yet believing, you rejoice
with joy unspeakable, full of glory;
Not having seen - In the flesh, said Wesley.
yes, the salvation of your souls
Receiving
the end of your faith, yes, the salvation of your souls, said Peter.
Receiving - Now already, said Wesley.
The Forerunner and Pledge
of Eternal Salvation
Wesley explained: Salvation - From all sin to all holiness,
which is the qualification, the forerunner, and the earnest of eternal
salvation.
who prophesied of grace
Peter said, "Of whose salvation the
prophets diligently inquired and inquired of, who prophesied of the grace that
was to be given you;
Wesley explained, Of what salvation
- Far beyond all that was experienced under the Jewish dispensation. The very
prophets who prophesied long ago of God's grace toward you - Of his abundant
and overflowing grace to be bestowed upon believers under the Christian
dispensation.
He asked: "They were sincerely curious,"
said Wesley.
Like miners in search of precious ore
And searched diligently - Like miners in search of precious ore,
about the meaning of the prophecies which they delivered.
Peter said, Searching what, or what kind
of time the Spirit of Christ that was in them signified, when he testified
beforehand of the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that would follow.
Their sufferings; i.e. the glory of his resurrection, ascension,
exaltation, and effusion of his Spirit; The Glory of the Last Judgment
Wesley explained in the items below:
Searching at what time - What specific period.
And what kind of time - By which marks to be distinguished.
The glories that would follow—His sufferings; that
is, the glory of his resurrection, ascension, exaltation, and outpouring of his
Spirit; the glory of the last judgment and of his eternal kingdom; and also the
glories of his grace in the hearts and lives of Christians.
they preached the gospel to you with the Holy
Spirit
Peter said, To whom it was revealed, that
they ministered, not to themselves, but to us, the things which are now
preached to you by those who preached the gospel to you with the Holy Spirit
sent from heaven, which the angels desire to examine.
For whom - So searching, said Wesley.
They didn't serve these predictions as much, or this generation
Wesley explained: It was revealed that
not by themselves, but by us they ministered—They did not so much
serve by these predictions, or that generation, as they did to us, who now
enjoy what they saw afar off.
Confirmed by the inward and powerful witness of the Holy Ghost
Wesley explained: With the Holy Ghost
sent from heaven - Confirmed by the inward and powerful testimony of
the Holy Spirit, as well as by the powerful outpouring of his miraculous gifts.
What Things Angels Wish to Examine
Said Wesley, What things the angels
desire to examine - A beautiful gradation; prophets, righteous men,
kings, desired to see and hear what Christ did and taught. What the Holy Spirit
taught about Christ, the angels themselves long to know.
Then gather all your thoughts and affections,
and keep your mind always unencumbered and prepared to run the race that is
before you
Therefore—Having such an encouragement, said Wesley.
Wesley explained, Gird up the loins of your mind - As the people
in Eastern countries were accustomed, in travelling or running, to gird up
their long garments, so gather all your thoughts and affections, and keep your
mind always unencumbered and prepared to run the race that is before you.
Watch - As servants who wait on their Lord, said Wesley.
Maintain a full expectation of all grace
Wesley explained: And hope to the end
- Maintain a full expectation of all grace - The blessings that flow from the
free favor of God. Which shall be brought unto you in the final revelation of
Jesus Christ - And which shall now be brought unto you by the revelation of
Christ in you.
As obedient children
Peter said, "As obedient children,
do not be conformed to the lusts that once existed in your ignorance;
Your desires - Which you had while you were ignorant of God, said Wesley.
Be holy
For it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
Leviticus 11:44.
if you call on the Father
Peter said: "And if you call on the
Father, who judges according to each one's work, spend the time of your
pilgrimage here in fear;
Who judges according to every man's work - According to the
tenor of his life and conversation, said Wesley.
Your short abode on earth
Wesley explained, Spend the time of your
sojourn - Your short abode on earth. In humble and loving fear - The
proper companion and keeper of hope.
You have been rescued from your vain way of
life
Peter said, "Knowing that you were
not redeemed with perishable things, such as silver or gold, from your vain way
of life, which you received by tradition from your fathers;
His vain talk—His foolish and sinful way of life, said
Wesley.
Wesley briefly commented:
precious blood of Christ
but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb
without blemish and without blemish; said Peter.
Without blemish - In himself.
No blemish - Of the world.
that your faith and hope may be in God
Peter said, "That through him you
believe in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your
faith and hope may be in God."
For all our faith and hope proceed from the power of his resurrection
Wesley explained, "Who through him believeth - For all our faith
and hope proceed from the power of his resurrection. In God who raised Jesus
and gave him glory - In his ascension. Without Christ, we must only fear God;
whereas, through him, we believe, hope, and love.
Because you have purified your souls by
obeying the truth by the Spirit
which freely grants you both obedience and purity of heart, as well as sincere
love for your brothers and sisters
Wesley explained: Having purified your souls by obedience to the truth
through the Spirit, who freely bestows upon you both obedience and purity of
heart, and sincere love for the brethren, press on to still higher degrees of
love.
Love one another fervently
Wesley explained, Love one another
fervently - With the strongest and tenderest affection; and yet with a pure heart
- Pure from any point of profane desire or inordinate passion.
Born again
Peter said, "Being born again, not
of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of God, which lives
and endures forever."
Who lives - Is full of divine virtue. And it remains
the same forever, Wesley said.
Every human creature is
transient and withered like grass
Peter
said,
"For all flesh is like grass, and all the glory of man like the flower of
grass." The grass withers, and its flower falls.
Wesley comments on the
following items:
All flesh - Every
human creature is transient and withered like grass. And all the glory of it -
His wisdom, strength, wealth, justice.
Like the flower - The
shortest part of it.
The grass - That is, man.
The flower - That
is, his glory.
It is fallen - As it
were, as it were, while we are speaking. Isaiah 40:6, etc.[1]
Living as God's People
Peter
said,
"Wherefore, putting away all malice, and all craftiness, and hypocrisy,
and envy, and all slander,
Like newborn babes, desire
the sincere milk of the word, that by it you may grow, he said.
Wesley
explained: The milk
of the word - That word of God which nourishes the soul as milk does the body, and
which is sincere, pure from all deceit, so that no one who clings to it may be
deceived.
That ye may grow thus - In
faith, love, holiness, unto the full stature of Christ, said Wesley.
Peter
said,
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a
peculiar people, that you should declare the praises of him who called you out
of darkness into his marvelous light;
And the
apostle said, Who were not once a people, but are now God's people, who have not
obtained mercy, but have now obtained mercy.
Wesley
explained: That in
the past they were not a people - Much less the people of God; but scattered
individuals from many nations. The first part of the verse particularly
respects the Gentiles; the last, the Jews.
Chapter 2
Therefore, leaving all
malice
Peter
said,
"Wherefore, putting away all malice, and all craftiness, and hypocrisy,
and envy, and all slander,
Wesley comments on the
items below:
Therefore setting aside - As
inconsistent with this pure love.
All dissimulation - Which
is the outward expression of cunning in the heart.
Verse 2
desire the sincere milk of
the word
Peter
said,
"Like newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that by it you
may grow."
Desire -
Always, as sincerely as babes of new-born, 1 Peter 1:3.
That word of God that nourishes the soul as
milk does the body
Wesley explained: The milk
of the word - That
word of God which nourishes the soul as milk does the body, and which is
sincere, pure from all deceit, so that no one who clings to it may be deceived.
to the full stature of Christ
That ye
may grow thus - In
faith, love, holiness, unto the full stature of Christ, said Wesley.
Verse 3
If you have proved that the
Lord is merciful
If you have proved that the
Lord is merciful, said Peter.
Since you tasted it -
Sweet and experimentally known, Wesley stated.
Verse 4
A living stone
Peter
said,
"To whom he came, as to a living stone, rejected by men, but chosen by God
and precious,
To whom it cometh - By
faith.
Christ as a spiritual, solid, firm, durable
foundation; and believers as a building erected upon it
Wesley
explained, " As unto a living stone—Living from everlasting;
alive from the dead. There is a wonderful beauty and energy in these
expressions, which describe Christ as a spiritual, solid, firm, durable
foundation; and believers as a building erected upon it, rather than that
temple which the Jews regarded as its greatest glory. And St. Peter, speaking
of him thus, shows that he did not judge himself, but Christ, as the rock on
which the church was built.
or who hope to be saved by their own works.
Wesley
explained, Rejected
indeed of men - Even at this day, not only by Jews, Turks, heathen, infidels; but by
all Christians, so called, who live in sin, or who hope to be saved by their
own works.
From all eternity
But chosen of God - From
all eternity, to be the foundation of his church, said Wesley.
And precious - In
itself, in the sight of God, and in the sight of all believers, Wesley
affirmed.
Verse 5
You too, as living stones,
are built a spiritual house
Peter
said,
"You also are built up as living stones, a spiritual house, a holy
priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus
Christ."
This is how Wesley comments
on the items below:
ye –
believers.
Like living stones - I
live for God through him.
Are edified - In
union with one another.
A spiritual house - Being
spiritual and a dwelling place of God through the Spirit.
Consecrated to God
Wesley
explained: A holy
priesthood - Consecrated to God, and
"holy as he is holy." Offering - Their souls and bodies, with all
their thoughts, words, and actions, as spiritual sacrifices to God.
Verse 6
Elected, precious
Peter
said,
"Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, 'Behold, I have laid in
Zion the chief corner stone, elect and precious, and whoever believes in it
will not be put to shame.'
He that believeth shall not
be confounded - In time or in eternity. Isaiah 28:16, said Wesley.
Verse 7
Therefore to you who
believe, he is precious
Peter said,
"To you who believe, he is precious, but to the disobedient the stone
which the builders rejected has been set as the cornerstone,
Wesley
explained : To
them that believe, he hath become the head of the corner—The
chief cornerstone, upon which the whole building rests. Unbelievers will also
find it to their sorrow, Matthew 21:44. Psalm 118:22.
Verse 8
and a stumbling block
Peter
further said, "It is a stumbling block, and a rock of offense, to those who stumble
in the word, being disobedient, to which they were also appointed."
Wesley
explained: That
stumble, unto which they were also appointed—Those that believe not,
stumble, fall, and perish for ever; God having appointed from all eternity,
"he that believeth not shall be damned."
Verse 9
But you are a chosen
generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people
Peter
said,
"But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a
peculiar people, that you should declare the praises of him who called you out
of darkness into his marvelous light;
"Kings and priests unto God"
Wesley
explained: But ye - who
believe in Christ are - In a higher sense than ever before, the Jews were. A
chosen or elect race, a royal priesthood—Kings and priests unto God, Revelation
1:6. As
princes, you have power before God and victory over sin, the world, and the
devil; as priests you are consecrated to God to offer spiritual sacrifices. You
Christians are like a holy nation under Christ your King.
This is how Wesley comments
on the items below:
A people bought - Which
are their peculiar property.
That ye may show - By
all his behaviour, to all mankind.
The virtues - The
excellent glory, mercy, wisdom, and power of him, Christ, who called him out of
the darkness of ignorance, error, sin, and misery.
Verse 10
Who were once not a people,
but now they are God's people
Peter
said,
"Who were not once a people, but now they are God's people, who have not
obtained mercy, but now they have obtained mercy."
Wesley
explained: That in
the past they were not a people - Much less the people of God; but scattered
individuals from many nations. The first part of the verse particularly
respects the Gentiles; the last, the Jews.
Verse 11
as strangers and pilgrims
Peter
said,
"Beloved, I beseech you, as strangers and sojourners, to abstain from
carnal lusts, which war against the soul;
Here begins the exhortation
drawn from the second motive, said Wesley.
those who are in a strange house; the second,
those who are in a strange country
Wesley
explained: Pilgrims:
pilgrims - The
first word properly signifies, those who are in a strange house; the second,
those who are in a strange country. You pilgrim in the body; You are pilgrims
in this world. Abstain from desires of anything in this house or in this
country.
Verse 12
Let your conduct be honest
among the Gentiles
Peter
said,
"Let your conduct be honest among the Gentiles, so that they may glorify
God on the day of visitation by your good works, which they will see, speak of
you as evildoers."
Wesley
explained: Honest - Not
only blameless, but virtuous in all respects. But our language sinks under the
strength, beauty, and abundance of the original expressions.
Possessing His Grace in You and Following His
Example
This is how Wesley comments
on the items below:
That they by their good
works they shall see - See with their own eyes.
That glorify God -
Possessing his grace in you and following his example.
On the day of visitation - The
time when he will give them new offerings of his mercy.
Verse 13
Submit
Peter
said,
"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether
to the king as supreme;
Wesley
explained: Submit
yourselves to all the ordinances of man—to all secular powers.
Instrumentally, they are ordained by men; but originally all its power comes
from God.
Verse 14
as to those who are sent by
him
Peter
further said, "Or to governors, as to those who are sent by him to punish
evildoers and to the praise of those who do good."
Or subordinate governors or
magistrates, Wesley said.
'Cause that's God's will
Peter said,
"For so it is the will of God, that by doing good you should silence the
ignorance of foolish men;
Of those who blame you
Wesley
explained: Ignorance - Of
those who blame thee, because they know thee not: a strong reason to pity them.
Verse 16
How free
Peter
affirmed, As
free, and not wearing their liberty as a cloak of wickedness, but as servants
of God.
As free - Still
obeying the governors, for God's sake, said Wesley.
Verse 17
Honor All Men
Honor all men. Love the
brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king, said Peter.
Honour all men–As
being made in the image of God, purchased by his Son, and designed for his kingdom,
said Wesley.
Honor the King
Wesley explained, Honour
the king - Pay
him all the consideration which both in affection and in action which the laws
of God and man require.
Verse 18
Submit
Peter
said,
Servants, submit to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and
gentle, but also to the wicked.
Domestic servants
Wesley's
brief comments on the items below:
Servants -
Literally, domestic servants. With all fear - Of offending them or God.
Not just for the good -
Tender, gentle.
And gentle - Soft,
easily indulgent.
Verse 19
'Cause it's worthy of grace
Peter
said,
"For this is worthy of grace, if a man through conscience toward God
endures grief by suffering unjustly."
Wesley's brief comments on
the items below:
To conscience towards God - From
a pure desire to please him.
Grief -
Severe treatment.
Verse 21
For this you were called to
do
Peter
said,
"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving
us an example, that you should follow in his footsteps."
Wesley's brief comments
below:
Here you are -
Christians.
Called - To
suffer unjustly.
Leaving you an example - When
he went to God.
That ye may follow in his
footsteps - Of
innocence and patience.
Who has not committed sin
Peter
explained,
"He who has not sinned, nor deceit was found in his mouth, who being
reviled, did not revile again; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but gave
himself up to him who judges justly;
Wesley's Comments: In all
these cases the example of Christ is peculiarly adapted to the state of the servants,
who easily slide into sin or cunning, by reviling their fellow-servants or
threatening them, the natural result of powerless anger.
He gave himself up to him
who judges justly
He gave
himself to him that judgeth justly - The only solid ground of patience in affliction. Isaiah
53:4; Isaiah
53:6-7; Isaiah
53:9, said
Wesley.
Verse 24
who himself bore our sins
in his own body on the tree
Peter
further said, "Who himself bore our sins in his own body on the tree, that,
being dead to sins, we might live to righteousness, by whose stripes you were
healed."
Wesley's
Comments: Who he
himself bore our sins - That is, the punishment due to them. In his
afflicted, torn, dying body on the tree - The cross, on which mainly slaves or
servants were wont to suffer.
Totally freed from both the guilt and the
power of it
That we are dead to sin - Fully
freed both from the guilt and the power of it: indeed, without an atonement
made first for guilt, we could never have been delivered from the power, said
Wesley.
The sins we committed, and he endured, were
manifold
Can live for righteousness - That
is only one. The sins we committed, and he endured, were manifold, Wesley said.
For you were like sheep
that have gone astray
Peter said,
"For you were like sheep that went astray; but now we return to the
Shepherd and Bishop of your souls."
The bishop
- The gentle observer, inspector, or overseer of their souls[2], said
Wesley.
Guidance to wives and husbands. Living in holiness
Peter
said, In the
same way, you wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands; that if anyone
does not obey the word, they also may be won without the word by the talk of
wives;
: Whose adornment is not
that external adornment of braiding the hair, and of wearing gold, or of
putting on clothing; said Peter.
Wesley speaks of
"Three things are here expressly forbidden: curling the hair, wearing gold
(as an ornament), and wearing expensive or cheerful clothing. These, therefore,
should never be allowed, much less defended, by Christians."
In the same way, you
husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor to the wife as
to the weaker vessel, and as joint-heirs with the grace of life; let their
prayers not be hindered, said Peter.
Wesley said, Knowing that
they are weak, and therefore ought to be used with all tenderness. Yet despise
them not for it, but give them honour - Both in heart, and in word, and in
deed; as those who are called to be joint-heirs with that eternal life which
you and they hope to receive by the free grace of God.
In this chapter, Peter also
deals with holiness: He said, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts,
and always be ready to give an answer with meekness and fear to everyone who
asks you a reason for the hope that is in you."
"Have a holy fear, and
full confidence in his wise providence," said Wesley.
Peter
further stated, But let a man be hidden from the heart, in that which is not
perishable, but the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is of great
value in the sight of God.
Wesley explains what it is:
The
hidden man of the heart – "Complete inward holiness, which implies a
meek and quiet spirit. A meek spirit does not willingly give trouble to anyone:
a quiet spirit endures all mistakes undisturbed."
Chapter 3
Verse 1
In the same way, you wives
Peter said, In the
same way, you wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands; that if anyone
does not obey the word, they also may be won without the word by the talk of
wives;
Wesley's
brief comments below:
If there
is - He speaks tenderly.
Won - Won for Christ.
Verse 2
As they
contemplate their chaste talk coupled with fear.
Along
with a loving fear of displeasing them.
Verse 3
Three things are here expressly forbidden
Peter said,
"Whose adornment is not that external adornment of braiding the hair, and
of wearing gold, or of putting on clothing;
Verse 4
The Hidden Man of the Heart
Peter
said, But
let a man be hidden from the heart, in that which is not perishable, but the
ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is of great value in the sight of
God.
Complete Inner Holiness
Wesley's Comments: The
Hidden Man of the Heart–Complete inward holiness,
which implies a meek and quiet spirit. A meek spirit does not willingly give
trouble to anyone: a quiet spirit endures all mistakes undisturbed.
Every superfluity of clothing contributes
more to pride
Wesley's Comments: In the
sight of God - That looketh to the heart. Every superfluous piece of dress
contributes more to pride and anger than is generally supposed. The apostle
seems to have his eyes for it, substituting for meekness and quietness in the
room the ornaments which he forbids.
but offer to take them away, and you touch
the very idol of your soul
Wesley's comments, "I
consider not these things," is often said by those whose hearts are
wrapped up in them: but offer to take them away, and thou touch the very idol
of your soul. Some, in fact, just dress elegantly so that they can be observed;
that is, they waste their Lord's talent to win applause: by making sin beget
sin, and then plead one in excuse from the other.
Verse 5
Holy Women
Peter
explained: For so
also in ancient times also the holy women who trusted in God adorned
themselves, being subject to their own husbands.
Wesley explained: The
adornment of those holy women, who trusted in God, and therefore did not act so
from slavish fear, was: 1. Their meek subjection to their husbands: 2. Their
quiet, "fearless," or marvelous spirit: and — 3. His blameless
behavior, "doing" all things "well."
Verse 6
Just as Sarah obeyed
Abraham
Peter
said,
"Just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are,
provided you do good, and do not fear with any fear."
In a spiritual and natural sense, and
entitled to the same inheritance
Whose children are ye - In a
spiritual and natural sense, and entitled to the same inheritance, while you
perform your conjugal duties, not from fear, but from conscience. Genesis 18:12, said
Wesley.
Verse 7
Peter said, In the
same way, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour to
the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as joint-heirs with the grace of life;
let not their prayers be hindered.
Dwelleth with the woman
according to knowledge
Wesley's Comments: Dwell with
the woman according to knowledge–Knowing that they are weak, and
therefore to be used with all tenderness. Yet despise them not for it, but give
them honour - Both in heart, and in word, and in deed; as those who are called
to be joint-heirs with that eternal life which you and they hope to receive by
the free grace of God.
Every sin hinders prayer; particularly anger
Wesley's Comments: Let not your prayers be hindered - On one side or the other. Every sin hinders prayer; particularly anger. Anything with which we are angry is never more apt to come to our mind than when we are in prayer; and those who do not forgive will not find forgiveness from God.
Verse 8
all of the same feeling
Finally, Peter said: Finally, all of you of one mind, having compassion
on one another, love as brothers, be merciful, be courteous;
The apostle seems to have added the rest afterwards.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
Finally
- This part of the epistle comes to 1 Peter 4:11. The apostle seems to have
added the rest afterwards.
Rejoicing and lamenting together
Sympathize
- Rejoicing and lamenting together. Love all believers as brothers. Be merciful
- Towards the afflicted.
Shows respect mixed with love
Be courteous - To all men. Courtesy is a behavior toward equals
and inferiors that shows respect mixed with love.
Verse 9
Not returning evil for evil
Peter said, Not returning evil for evil, or reviling for reviling: but rather
blessing; knowing that to this you were called, that you should inherit a
blessing.
You are called to inherit a blessing
Ye are called to inherit a blessing - Therefore your injury cannot harm you; and by
blessing them, you imitate God, who blesses you, said Wesley.
Verse 10
For the one who loves life and wants to see the good days
Peter said, "For he who loves life and wants to see the good days should restrain
his tongue from evil, and let his lips speak no guile."
For he who desires to love life and see good days - That would make life lovely and desirable. Psalms 34:12,
etc., stated Westley.
Verse 11
May he turn away from evil and do good
Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him
seek peace and follow it, Peter said.
Wesley
commented on the items below:
Let him seek
- To live peaceably with all men.
And chase it
- Even when it seems to run away from it.
Verse 12
For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous
Peter said, "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are
open to their prayers, but the face of the Lord is against those who do
evil."
The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous - For good. Anger appears all over the face; love,
especially in the eyes, said Wesley.
Verse 13
And who is it that will harm you, if you are followers of the good?
Peter
said , "And who is it that will
harm you, if you are followers of the good?"
Who is the one who will harm you - No one can, said Wesley.
Verse 14
Blessed are you
Peter said, "But if you suffer for righteousness' sake, blessed are you, and
do not fear the terror of it, nor be troubled;
Wesley's
Comments: But if you suffer - That is not evil to you, but a good.
Do not fear their fear
Wesley's
Comments: Fear not their fear—The very words of the Septuagint, Isaiah 8:12-13.
Let not the fear be in you which the wicked feel.
Verse 15
Have a holy fear, and full confidence in his wise providence
Peter said, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to
give an answer with meekness and fear to everyone who asks you a reason for the
hope that is in you."
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts - Have a holy fear, and a full confidence in his
wise providence, said Wesley.
Wesley
commented on the items below:
The hope
- Of eternal life.
With meekness
- For anger would injure his cause as well as his soul.
And fear
- A filial fear of offending God, and a jealousy of themselves, lest ye speak
evil.
Verse 16
Have a good conscience
Peter said, "Have a good conscience, lest they who falsely accuse your good
life in Christ be ashamed of speaking evil of you as evildoers."
Wesley's
Comments: Have a good conscience - So much the more beware of anger, to which the
very consciousness of your innocence may betray you. Join with a good
conscience meekness and fear, and you will gain a complete victory.
That is, that flows from faith in him
His good conversation in Christ - That is, that flows from faith in him, said
Wesley.
Verse 17
if it be God's will
Peter said, "For if it be the will of God, it is better that you suffer for
good than for evil."
Wesley's Comments: It is
infinitely better, if it be God's will, you must suffer. His permissive will appears from his providence.
Verse 18
For Christ also suffered for sins once
Peter said, "For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous
for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the
flesh, but made alive by the Spirit."
Wesley's
Comments: For - This is, no doubt, the best, by which we are
most conformed to Christ. Now Christ suffered once - That he might suffer no
more.
For sins - Not
yours, but ours, said Wesley.
The word means, not only those who have wronged their neighbors, but
those who have transgressed any of God's commandments
Wesley's
Comments: The just for the unjust - The word means, not only those who have wronged
their neighbours, but those who have transgressed any of the commandments of
God; as the preceding word, righteous, denotes a person who has performed, not
only social duties, but every kind of righteousness.
So that he can lead us to God
Wesley's
Comments: That he may bring us to God - Now, for his gracious favour, henceforth into
his happy presence, by the same steps of suffering and of glory.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
To be slain in the flesh - As a man.
and by the power of the Holy Spirit
But raised by the Spirit - Both by his own divine power, and by the power
of the Holy Ghost.
Verse 19
He went and preached to the spirits in prison
Wherefore also he went and preached to the spirits
in prison; said Peter.
The profane men before the flood, who were then reserved by the
righteousness of God
Wesley's
Comments: To the spirits in prison - The profane men before the flood, who were then
reserved by the justice of God, as in a prison, till he executed sentence upon
them all; and now also are reserved for the judgment of the great day.
waited in the days of Noah
Peter stated, That they were sometimes disobedient, when once the long-suffering of
God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was getting ready, in which few,
that is, eight souls were saved by water.
Wesley's
Comments: When the longsuffering of God
waited - For one hundred and twenty
years; all the time that the ark was preparing: during which Noah warned all to
flee from the wrath to come.
Verse 21
The same figure for whom even baptism also now saves us
Peter affirmed: The same
figure for whom even baptism also now saves us (not the putting off of the
filthiness of the flesh, but the response of a good conscience toward God), by
the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
That is, through the water of baptism we are saved from the sin that
dominates the world like a flood
Wesley's
Comments: The antitype of which—The thing typified by the ark, even baptism, now
saves us—That is, through the water of baptism we are saved from the sin which
overwhelms the world like a flood: not, indeed, the simple outward sign, but
inward grace; a divine consciousness that both our persons and our actions are
accepted through Him who died and rose again for us.
Verse 22
He ascended into heaven and is at the right hand of God
who has ascended into heaven and is at the right
hand of God; angels, authorities, and powers being subject to him, Peter further said.
Angels, authorities, and powers - That is, all orders of angels and men,[3]
said Wesley.
Suffering
as a Christian and Spiritual Gifts
Peter
addresses in this chapter on Christian suffering: "Since
Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind,
because he who suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin;
Wesley's
Comments on: Arm yourselves with the same
mind–He said, "That it shall be an armor of
trial against all your enemies."
Wesley's
Comments on "For He Who Suffered in the
flesh": Who suffered in such a way that he became
inwardly and truly conformed to the sufferings of Christ.
Peter also
addresses the gifts: Just as each one received
the gift, so also serve one another as good stewards of God's manifold grace.
Wesley's Comments on How Each Received a Gift: Spiritual or
temporal, common or extraordinary, though the latter seems chiefly intended.
Peter said, "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that
in due time he may exalt you;
The hand of God - It is
in all troubles, said Wesley.
Chapter 4
Verse 1
That will
be a trial armor against all your enemies
Peter said, "Since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm
yourselves also with the same mind, because he who suffered in the flesh has
ceased from sin;
Wesley's
Comments: Arm yourselves with the same
mind - That it will be a trial armor against all
your enemies.
truly
conformed to the sufferings of Christ
Wesley's
Comments: For he that suffered in the
flesh - That suffered in such a way that he became
inwardly and truly conformed to the sufferings of Christ.
Ceased from sin - Is delivered from it, said Wesley.
Verse 2
but for the
will of God
Peter
stated, That he should no longer live the rest
of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
Lest ye live any more in the flesh - Even in this mortal body.
For the desires of men - His own
or those of others. These are several; but the will of God is one.
Verse 3
For the
past time of our life may suffice for us to do the will of the Gentiles
Do these
words have any meaning now?
Wesley's
Comments: Revelries, feasts - Do these words have any meaning now? They had, seventeen hundred
years ago. So the first meant gatherings to eat; meetings, the direct end of
which was, to please the palate: the last, meetings for drinking: both of which
the Christians then classed with abominable idolatries
Verse 4
And they find it strange that you do not run with
them
And they think it strange that you do not run with them to the same
excess of tumult, speaking evil of yourselves; said Peter.
Wesley's
comments below:
The same - as you once did.
Speaking ill of you - So proud, singular, silly, wicked, and the
like.
Verse 5
Who will
give an account to the one who is ready to judge
Peter said, "Who will give an account to him who is ready to
judge the living and the dead."
Who shall give an account of it - Of
this, as well as in all its other ways.
To him that is ready - So faith represents him
now.
Verse 6
For this is
why the gospel was preached also to the dead
Peter said,
"For this reason the gospel was preached also to the dead, that they might
be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the
spirit."
For to this end was the gospel preached - Ever since it was given to Adam, said Wesley.
In its
various generations
To those who are now dead - In his
several generations, adisse Wesley.
The soul
renewed in his image
Wesley's comments: So they can be tried- That although they
have been tried. In the flesh after the manner of men - With hasty and unjust
judgment. They can live according to the will and word of God, in the Spirit;
the soul renewed according to his image.
Verse 7
Be sober
and watch in prayer
Peter said, "But the end of all things is at hand: be sober
and watch in prayer."
But the end of all things - And so
of their errors and their sufferings, said Wesley.
Wesley's
Comments: It is near: Be ye therefore
sober, and watch prayer—Temperance aideth
watchfulness, and both aid prayer. Watch that you may pray; and pray that they
will watch.
Verse 8
have ardent
love among yourselves
Peter said, "And above all things have ardent love among
yourselves, for love will cover the multitude of sins."
He who
loves the other, covers his faults, however many they are
Wesley's Comments: Love covers a multitude of
sins—yes, "love
covers all things." He who loves the other, covers his faults, as many as
they are. He averts his own eyes from them; and, as far as possible, hides them
from others. And he prays continually that all the iniquities of the sinner may
be forgiven and his sins covered. Meanwhile, the God of love measures him with
the same measure in his bosom.
Verse 9
Wesley's
brief comments below:
Use
hospitality
Use hospitality to each other without rancor, Pedro said.
One to another - You who are from different cities or
countries.
Without murmuring - With all joy. Proverbs 10:12.
Verse 10
Just as
each one received the gift, so also served one another
Peter said, "As each one has received the gift, so also have I
served one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
Wesley's
Comments: How each has received a gift—Spiritual or temporal, common or extraordinary, though the latter seems
chiefly intended.
Wherefore, minister unto one another—Employ him
for the common good, said Wesley.
As good
stewards of God's manifold grace
As good stewards of the manifold
grace of God—The talents with which his free love has
entrusted him, said Wesley.
Verse 11
In all your
conversation, public and private
Peter said, "If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of
God say; if anyone ministers, let him do it according to God's ability, so that
God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ, to whom be given
praise and dominion forever and ever." Amen.
If any man speak, let him - In all
his conversation, public and private, Wesley asserted.
May all
your words conform to this standard
Wesley's
Comments: Speak as the oracles of God - Let all your words be according to this standard, both as to matter
and manner, more especially in public. By this mark, we can always know who
are, so far, the true or false prophets.
The oracles
of God teach that men must repent, believe, obey
Wesley's Comments: The oracles of God teach
that men must repent, believe, obey. He who treats of faith and leaves out
repentance, or does not command practical holiness to believers, does not speak
as the oracles of God do: he does not preach Christ, let him think as well of
himself as he pleases.
Serve your
brother in love
If any man minister - Serve thy brother in
love, whether in spintuals or storms, said Wesley.
May he
minister from the capacity that God gives
Let him minister from the ability which God gives - That is, humbly and diligently, ascribing all his power to God, and
using it with his power.
Wesley
commented on the items below:
Whose glory it is—Of his wisdom, which
teaches us to speak.
It is power – that allows us to act.
Verse 12
Do not
marvel at the ardor that is among you
Peter said, "Beloved, do not be surprised about the fiery
trial that will prove you, as if something strange happened to you;
Wesley's
Comments: Marvel not at the ardor that is
among you - This is the literal meaning of the
expression. It seems to include both martyrdom itself, which was so often by
fire, and all other sufferings united with it or prior to it; which is
permitted by the wisdom of God for his trial. Don't be surprised by this.
Verse 13
But rejoice
Peter said,
"But rejoice, for you are partakers of the sufferings of Christ, so that
when his glory is revealed, you also rejoice with great joy."
share in the sufferings of Christ
Wesley's Comments: But as ye partake of the sufferings
of Christ--1 Peter 4:1,
while ye suffer for his sake, rejoice in hope of more abundant glory. For the
measure of glory corresponds to the measure of suffering; and much more
abundantly.
Verse 14
Cruel
reproaches and mockery have always been a part of their sufferings
Peter said, "If you are reproached for the name of Christ,
blessed are you: for the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you; it is evil
spoken of from them, but it is glorified from you."
If ye be reproached for Christ - Cruel
reproaches and mockery have always been a part of their sufferings, said
Wesley.
The Spirit
of glory and of God rests upon you
Wesley's Comments: The Spirit of glory and of
God rests upon you - The same Spirit that was upon Christ, Luke
4:18. He is here styled the Spirit of glory,
overcoming all reproach and shame, and the Spirit of God, whose Son, Jesus
Christ, is.
On their part he is blasphemed,
but on your part he is glorified - That is,
while they are blaspheming Christ, you glorify him in the midst of their
sufferings, 1 Peter 4:16, said Wesley.
Verse 15
But let
none of you suffer as a murderer
Peter said, "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a
thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in the affairs of others."
Wesley's Comments: Let none of you suffer deservedly, as an
evildoer—of any kind.
Verse 16
If someone
suffers as a Christian
Peter said, "But if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not
be ashamed; but let him glorify God for it."
Let him glorify God - Who gives him the honour to suffer thus,
and so great a reward for suffering, said Wesley.
Verse 17
For the
time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God
Peter said ,
"For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God; and if
it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the
gospel of God?"
The time has come for judgment to begin in the house of God - God first visits his church, and that in both justice and mercy,
Wesley claimed.
What will
be the end of those who do not obey the gospel
Wesley's
Comments: What will be the end of those
who do not obey the gospel—How terribly will he visit
them! Judgments that are more lenient at first, become more and more severe.
But good men, having already sustained their part, are only spectators of the
miseries of the wicked.
Verse 18
And if the
righteous are hardly saved
Peter
asked, "And if the righteous are hardly
saved, where will the wicked and sinners appear?"
If the righteous are scarcely saved - Flee
with the greatest difficulty, said Wesley.
The Man Who
Knows No God
Wesley's
Comments: Where is the wicked - The man who does not know God. And the open sinner appeareth - In
that day of vengeance. The salvation here chiefly mentioned is of a temporal
nature. But we can apply the words to eternal things, and then they are even
more terrible. Proverbs
11:31.
Verse 19
entrust the keeping of your souls to him by doing good
Peter said, "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God
entrust the keeping of their souls to him doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
Let those who suffer according to the will of God - Both for a good cause, and in a right spirit.
Entrust to him your souls - (Whatever happens to the body) as a sacred
deposit.
In doing good
- Let this be his care, to do and suffer well: he will take care of the rest.
As for a faithful Creator
As to a faithful Creator - In whose truth, love, and power you may safely
trust.[4]
Called to shepherd the flock and to watch
Peter said, "I exhort the elders who are among you, that I also am an elder,
and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory
that is to be revealed:
Feed the flock of God that is among you, overseeing
it, not out of constraint, but willingly; not out of filthy gain, but out of
good cheer; Pedro added.
Both
for doctrine and discipline, Wesley said. Not grudgingly, like a burden.
Casting all his care on him; for he cares for you, said Peter.
In
every need or pressure, Wesley said.
Peter spoke of watchfulness: Be sober, be watchful; for your adversary the
devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour;
And
Wesley remarked, "But in the meantime, watch the time. There is a close
connection between this and the due casting of our cares upon it. How deeply
St. Peter himself suffered for want of watchfulness! Be vigilant - As if he had
said, Wake up and stay awake. Do not sleep anymore: be your care.
Chapter
5
Verse 1
I exhort the priests
Peter said, "I exhort the elders who are among you, that I also am an elder,
and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory
that is to be revealed:
I, who am a fellow-elder - So the first, though not the head of the
apostles, properly and modestly names himself, said Wesley.
And a witness to the sufferings of Christ
And a witness of Christ's sufferings—Having
seen him suffer, and now suffering for him, Wesley affirmed.
Verse 2
Both by doctrine and by discipline.
Peter said,
"Feed the flock of God that is among you, overseeing it, not out of
constraint, but willingly; not out of filthy greed, but out of good cheer;
Feed the flock–Both by
doctrine and discipline, said Wesley.
Not out of embarrassment—unwillingly, like a burden, Wesley said.
Isn't it surprising that men don't see it badly?
Wesley's
Comments: Not for unclean gain - What, if it be the motive of the action, is
unclean beyond expression. Oh, consider this, you who leave one flock and go to
another, simply because there is more gain, a great wage! Isn't it surprising
that men don't see it badly? that is not only practiced, but confessed,
throughout the country?
Verse 3
as examples for the flock
Peter said, "Neither as lords of God's inheritance, but as examples to the
flock."
The word translated inheritance is, literally, the portions
Wesley's
Comments: Nor as lord over the inheritance - Behaving in an arrogant and domineering manner,
as if you had dominion over your conscience. The word translated inheritance
is, literally, the portions. There is one flock under the one chief Shepherd;
but many parts of it, under many pastors.
But to be examples to the flock - That gets the most ready and free obedience,
said Wesley.
Verse 5
Be in subjection to your elders
Peter said, "In the same way, you younger ones submit to
your elders. yes, be subject to one another and clothe yourselves with
humility, for God resists the proud, and gives grace to the humble.
Wesley's
brief comments:
Ye younger, subject yourselves to the older - In years.
And be everything
– older or younger.
Let each one be ready, at all times, to give up his own will
Wesley's
Comments: Subject to one another - Let each one be ready, at all times, to give up
his own will. Clothe yourself in humility - Bind it (so the word signifies) so
that no force can tear it away from you. James 4:6; Proverbs
3:34
Verse 6
Humble yourselves, then, under the mighty hand of God
Peter said, "Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that
in due time he may exalt you;
The hand of God - It is
in all troubles, said Wesley.
Verse 7
Casting all your care on it
"Casting all his care on him, for he cares for
you," Peter added.
Casting all his care upon him - In every need or pressure, said Wesley.
Verse 8
But in the meantime, watch the time
Peter said, Be sober, be watchful; for your adversary the devil walks about like a
roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour;
There is a close connection between this and the due casting of our
cares upon it
Wesley's
comments: But in the meantime, watch the time. There is a close connection
between this and the due casting of our cares upon it. How deeply St. Peter
himself suffered for want of watchfulness! Be vigilant - As if he had said,
Wake up and stay awake. Do not sleep anymore: be your care.
Wesley's
brief comments:
Like a roaring lion - Full of rage.
Seeking
- With all the subtlety in the same way.
Whom he can devour or swallow - Soul and body.
Verse 9
until the measure assigned to them is filled
Peter also said: "Resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions
are fulfilled in your brothers who are in the world."
Wesley's Comments: Be the
firmer, as you know that the same sort of afflictions are carried on - That is,
suffered by your brethren, till the measure allotted to them is filled.
Verse 10
But the God of all grace
Peter said, "But may the God of all grace, who called us to his eternal glory
through Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a little while, equip you,
establish you, strengthen you, establish you.
Now, the God of all grace - By whom alone all work is begun, continued, and
finished in your soul, said Wesley.
Wesley's
brief comments on the items below:
After having suffered a little
After having suffered a little–A little time compared with eternity.
Himself
- You have only to watch and resist the devil: the rest God will perform.
Perfect
- That no defect can remain.
Establish
- That nothing can bring you down.
Strengthen
- That you may conquer every adverse power.
Like a house on a rock
And soothe him
- Like a house upon a rock. So the converted apostle is now "strengthening
his brothers."
Verse 12
I wrote briefly
Peter stated, By Silvanus, a brother faithful to you, as I suppose, I have written
briefly, exhorting and testifying that this is the true grace of God in which
you are.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
As I suppose
- As I judge, for good reasons, though not for immediate inspiration.
I wrote - That is, I sent my letter for him.
this is the true gospel of
God's grace
Wesley's
Comments: Adding my testimony - To what you have heard before from Paul, that
this is the true gospel of the grace of God.
Verse 13
The church that is in Babylon, chosen with you
Peter said, "The church that is in Babylon, chosen with you, greets you; and
so does Marcus my son."
The church that is in Babylon - Near which St. Peter probably was, when he wrote
this epistle, said Wesley.
Wesley's
brief comments below:
Elect together with you - Partaking of the same faith with you.
Mark
- It sounds like the evangelist.
My Son
- Probably converted by St. Peter. And he occasionally served him, "as a
son in the gospel."[5]
[1] https://www.studylight.org/comentários/eng/wen/1-peter-1.html.
[2] https://www.studylight.org/comentários/eng/wen/1-peter-2.html.
[3] https://www.studylight.org/comentários/eng/wen/1-peter-3.html.
[4] https://www.studylight.org/Comentários/Eng/Wen/1-peter-4.html
[5] https://www.studylight.org/comentários/eng/wen/1-peter-5.html.
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