Peter states that we are shielded by God’s power ‘until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time’ [1Peter 1:5].
Like Paul, Peter is firmly convinced that those who believe in Jesus Christ are already saved, and already possess everything necessary for and included in spiritual salvation.
Already we have been set apart as God’s special possession by the Holy Spirit [verse 2].
Already we have been sprinkled by Christ’s blood [verse 2].
Already we are the recipients of God’s mercy [verse 3].
Already we have been given new birth [verses 4, 23].
Already we have been redeemed [verse 18].
Already our sins have been borne by Christ [2:24].
Already we are spiritually healed [2:24].
Already we have returned to the Shepherd [2:25].
But there is still an aspect of salvation that we do not yet experience, that will not be ours until the return of Christ in judgement, power and glory. Satan is still present and active. Sin is still in us and around us. Suffering of all kinds still impacts us. Death still confronts and claims us. But when Christ returns everything that entered the world in Genesis 3 will be completely and permanently removed.
Satan will be no more.
Sin will be no more.
Suffering of all kinds will be no more.
Death will be no more.
Paul put it this way:
‘We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved’ [Romans 8:22-24].
Peter referred to our ultimate future salvation in terms of grace and glory:
‘These (trials) have come so that your faith ... may result in praise, glory and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed’ [1Peter 1:7].
‘... prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed’ [verse 13].
‘But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed’ [4:13].
‘I appeal to you as a fellow elder ... and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed’ [5:1].
‘And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away’ [5:4].
Jesus anticipated that day:
‘Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory ...’ [John 17:24].
In terms of our relationship with God, we are already completely and permanently saved. And part of that complete, permanent salvation is the ‘living hope’ of which Peter spoke in verse 3. In this confident hope is the sure and certain knowledge that this life, with its sin and its suffering is not the end. Beyond our physical death, beyond the return of Christ as the glorious King and Judge, is glory.
It is for this eternal glory that God is keeping us safe by his almighty power.
© Rosemary Bardsley 2017