As he begins this letter, Peter knows that God’s people are facing real trials and difficulties. He does not minimize those trials, but he reminds us of our rock-solid foundation in the sovereign and saving work of God.
I grew up in a church-going family, for which I am grateful. But if memory serves me well, what I often heard from the pulpit was only a “half gospel.” Yes, I heard a lot about “believing in Jesus” but little about sin and repentance and the righteousness of God. I don’t think I am alone in this. I recently had the opportunity to speak to around 100 youth at a Christian school in our area. I began by asking the question, “what is repentance?” After waiting for some time, only one student mustered the courage to respond. I can’t...
