Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:13
Although Paul is more known for the “already/not yet” statements about salvation (think “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” – Phil 212-13), Peter pops in with one of his own. Notice that he is speaking to the church about the final coming of Jesus Christ. Why?
The church in northern Asia Minor is starting to see troubling signs of persecution on the horizon. Indeed, within fifty years, Pliny the Younger, the region’s governor, would write to Emperor Trajan looking for advice on handling the Christian problem. He was concerned that this growing cult of “superstition” endangered people as it spread through the cities and rural villages.
Back to Peter, who instructs the churches to be clear-minded and focused as they set their hope on the completion of grace that awaits them upon Christ’s return. In other words, life is often messy, so be patient and keep your eyes on the ball, but most of all…
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