Year of the Bible: Part Eleven of TwelveSample

Remain Faithful on Repeat: The Pastor’s Appeal

Parents often remind their children of the right way to do things for a well-lived life. We want them to be safe, prosperous, and in God’s calling! Pastors do much the same with the people they serve in the church. In today’s reading, Peter demonstrated a pastoral heart. Knowing that the end of his life was drawing close, he wanted to ensure the people in the churches he led were ready to stand on their own.

Peter knew the believers were already rooted in truth. Yet, like a parent, he didn’t miss an opportunity to repeat foundational things to ensure they were ready to face persecution and the doubt that can come with waiting. He reminded his readers that he was an eyewitness to what Jesus did on the earth and reiterated that he didn’t just make up some theological treatise for them to follow! He spoke boldly about the prophecies Jesus fulfilled, and the reader can be confident that Jesus is Messiah. For emphasis, Peter referenced the time he stood on the mount of transfiguration and heard God say, “This is My beloved Son. I take delight in Him!”

Peter knew that human nature is prone to wander, and he wanted to ensure the churches remained true to Jesus. He repeated the truth to solidify the importance of not falling away. Nothing is harder for a Pastor than pouring the truth of the Gospel into people and then watching them turn away from godly living. It’s heartbreaking, and Peter wanted his people to stay focused to the very end!

Peter put it all on the table again to ensure the truth of Jesus was not misunderstood, changed, or forgotten. The prophecies did not come from men; they were from God, as was the fulfillment of the prophecies through Jesus. Friend, turn your eyes toward Jesus today. God went to great lengths to give Him to you. Remember today that your belief is true.

Question: Are there things you need to hear over and over to stay in a relationship with Jesus?

Prayer: Ask God to show you anything in your life that may need realignment. Take time to refocus on Jesus and pray for those who have taught you the truth of the Gospel. Stand strong today!