Who you are as a believer
The Significance of Simon Peter’s Name
Let’s begin with verse one. Peter starts by addressing the Christians as “Simeon Peter” or “Simon Peter.” Let’s break down the significance of this name. Why does Peter refer to himself as Simon Peter?
“Simon” was the name given to him at birth by his parents. It was the name Jesus used when He first called Peter from the sea in Mark 1:16. Later, in Mark 3:16, Jesus gave him the name “Peter.” These two names reflect Peter’s identity before and after Christ. “Simon” represents his former ignorance, who he was apart from Christ. “Peter” signifies who he became in Christ, as Jesus bestowed honor upon him with a new name through faith.
By addressing himself as Simon Peter, Peter reminds Christians never to forget who they were before coming to Christ. This is crucial because forgetting can lead to pride. Paul exemplifies this in Acts 22, where he recounts his former life as a persecutor of the church before sharing how Christ transformed him. Both Peter and Paul emphasize this to keep believers humble and thankful to God, recognizing that they are who they are solely by God’s grace.
Peter’s Titles: Servant and Apostle
Peter goes on to describe himself as a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ.
The Title of Apostle
Peter mentions this title to establish authority, signaling that his message comes directly from God. The term “apostle” means messenger or delegate—someone commissioned to speak on behalf of another. There were very few apostles, directly called by Christ and uniquely gifted to declare God’s word and verify it through signs.
The Title of Servant
However, while only a small number were apostles, every Christian is a servant of Jesus Christ. This is why Peter first identifies himself as a servant, aligning himself with all believers.
In 1 Peter 5, when addressing elders, he similarly identifies as a “fellow elder” rather than emphasizing his apostolic authority. Here, by calling himself a servant, Peter connects with all Christians, affirming that they share the same calling to serve Christ.
The Purpose of the Letter
Peter’s purpose in writing this letter becomes clear in verses 12–14 of chapter 1:
“I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me.”
Peter knows his time is short. This letter is his call for Christians to persevere and grow in faith, resisting false teachers and their destructive heresies. By referring to himself as a servant, Peter emphasizes that all Christians are servants of God, called to live in faithful obedience.
Our Role as Servants of Christ
In 1 Corinthians 7:22–23, Paul similarly reminds believers that they were “bought with a price” and are therefore servants of Christ. Peter urges believers to consider his life as an example of servanthood, using everything he had for the glory of God.
As servants, we too are called to glorify God in all we think, say, and do.
Equipped to Live as Servants
In verses 3–11, Peter explains how believers are equipped to live as servants of God:
“His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us to His own glory and excellence, by which He has granted to us His precious and very great promises…”
Peter exhorts believers to confirm their calling and election by practicing qualities like faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. These qualities help believers resist false doctrine and remain fruitful in their knowledge of Christ.
Overcoming False Teachers Through Service
Ultimately, Peter teaches that living as servants of Christ protects us from false teachers. By serving Christ alone, rather than our own desires or the teachings of others, we fulfill our calling.
In verse 11, Peter reminds us of the eternal reward for faithful service:
“There will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Peter contrasts this eternal perspective with worldly ambitions. Many strive for fame or wealth, but Peter emphasizes the honor of being called a servant of Christ. This title, bestowed by Christ, is worth more than anything the world can offer.
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