February 18 1 Peter 1:9
“for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.”
This verse highlights the ultimate reward of faith in Christ: salvation. Peter is addressing believers who are enduring trials and hardships, encouraging them to remain steadfast because their faith is not in vain. The “end result” (or “goal”) of their faith is the salvation of their souls—a profound reassurance that their suffering has purpose and their hope is secure.
The context of this passage is essential. Peter has just spoken about the joy believers have, even though they have not seen Christ and are undergoing suffering. Their love and trust in Him bring them an inexpressible joy, and now, he concludes that this faith will lead to the ultimate reward.
This verse serves as both comfort and motivation for believers. It reminds them that, though the Christian journey involves trials, the final outcome is eternal salvation. It also reflects the already-but-not-yet tension in Christian theology: believers are already receiving salvation through faith, but the full realization of that salvation will come in the future.
If we are not paying attention we might miss how Christians are being attacked and persecuted around the world. For example in the UK people have been arrested and jailed for praying silently! Near an abortion clinic. More understandable house church leaders in Iran have been detained for leading church services.
How bless are we, so far, to be safe to worship, pray, and read the Bible in public!
Consider if you could remain confident of eternal salvation in these circumstances?
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