Tuesday – 1st Peter 3 - The Real You

 

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N the Bible there is a perfect mixture of commandments regarding overt morality & instructions concerning our internal spiritual condition. As we saw in the book of James, both are important; & in Hebrews 11, they are also inextricably connected. However, it is the inner man that matters most (1^st Samuel 16:7 & 2^nd Corinthians 4:16). Or, maybe we should say (as Christ did) that it is our inside that matters first (Matthew 23:25-26). Such is the case in our salvation. Our physical baptism is an outward demonstration of an inward reality (1^st Peter 3:20-21). The outside of our cup can be cleaned automatically (as it were) as we focus on making sure that our inside is thoroughly washed (Matthew 15:10-11). Indeed, God fully intends to deal with our entire being (1^st Thessalonians 5:23), but if the outside is all that is adjusted then there will be no lasting benefit (Matthew 23:27-28).  On the other hand, if the real me is adjusted my outer shell will certainly be affected too (2^nd Corinthians 5:17 & James 2:18). Our outward issues are merely platforms upon which our inside is demonstrated.

 

Here in 1^st Peter 3 we find plenty of good counsel on how to be right & do right. First, Peter offers direction for wives & husbands (1^st Peter 3:1-7). It is certain that a sincere love for God is the key ingredient to a successful marriage. And, expressing love for God should definitely begin at home. But Peter doesn't stop there. He moves on & addresses the totality of our spiritual responsibilities, which is to be righteous & to live justly (Micah 6:8).