As I was reading Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on this chapter of 1 Peter, the following quote stood out:
The fruits of Christ’s sufferings are the death of sin, and a new holy life of righteousness; for both which we have an example, and powerful motives, and ability to perform also, from the death and resurrection of Christ.
When it comes to the death of sin in our lives and a rebirth into a life of righteousness, we have 1) an example, 2) motives, and 3) an ability. Let’s break this down.
First, we have an example in Christ. If we want to know what it looks like to leave our old sinful lives in the dust and to move forward into lives of righteousness, we need only look at Jesus. He lived an entirely perfect life, one of love and holiness. In the midst of the most troubling times, He stood firm, rooted on the right path.
Second, in Christ we have the greatest motive to shy away from sin. It is not that we need to earn our salvation, for oh, how salvation has already been achieved for us. It is rather because salvation has already been given to us that we flee from sin and pursue righteousness. As 1 Peter 1:17-19 says:
And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.
How could we sin against the One who gave everything in order that we would have union with Him forever rather than receive what we truly deserve?
Lastly, we have the ability to live a righteous life. This ability comes not through our own doing but through the Holy Spirit working in us. Even though we’re Christians, we still possess our old, unredeemed nature, so we still sin. But the beauty is that as we yield control to the Holy Spirit, He works in our hearts, sanctifying them and empowering us to live lives that conform to God’s character.
If you’ve been struggling with an area of sin in your life, take heart. Don’t stop fighting, and don’t stop asking for God’s help in defeating that sin. In Christ, you have all you need in order to achieve victory.
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