Consider the Mystery

As we continue in 1 Peter we are still in chapter 1.  This Sunday will be our sixth meeting and we are starting in verse 10.  And this week the discussion should include a veritable mix of theology, doctrine, and praxis as we focus on the salvation that has been given to us and the mysteries of such a gift mercy.

In verses 10-12 Peter talks about the fact that the prophets of old made diligent inquiries into this salvation, wondering when it would be revealed and who it would be manifested in.  By revelation of God, they knew and spoke of the fact that one day redemption would come and that God would do something to save His people.  In their day, more than 400 years before Jesus was born, they had no idea how their prophecies would play out.  But they persisted in their ministering.  They continued to preach and call for repentance.  They were relentless in their proclamation of a coming Messiah, even though they knew it was not meant for them and that he would not appear in their lifetime.

Peter also mentions the fact that the angels in heaven pry into this mystery of salvation and wonder at its extent and implications.  Angels, who are unfallen and therefore have no need of redemption, have no genuine understanding of man's need for redemption, except to know that such a need exists, having witnessed from the realm of heaven the evil workings of sinful man.  So the angels look down upon us and marvel at what has been given to us.

With all of the interest and curiosity and awe directed towards salvation over the course of history, I wonder if perhaps my own regard for it is weak less than appropriate.  I know that there was a time in my life when I was converted, when I was brought out of darkness and given new life in Christ.  I remember that day.  It was an amazing day for me - to come to the realization of my sinfulness and my desperate need for salvation.  I have experienced and felt the awe in regard to my salvation. 

But I wonder if over time such awe has slipped away.  And I wonder if the same is true for you.  How often do we stop and consider exactly what God did for us by sending Jesus to the cross?  How often do we reflect on the weight of God's wrath that sat upon Christ as he hung there by those nails?  How often do we think about the fact that we rightfully deserve to be in hell, because we are bad people and because we have violated God's laws?  Yet, because the Messiah came, because God came down to dwell among sinful men, because he subjected himself to evil men and death, we can be with him in paradise?

When I stop for a minute and just think about it, I can begin to understand why the prophets were so adamant and so diligent in their inquiries.  I can see why the angels are so curious.  It really is a gift, a sacrifice, an event that inspires awe and amazement. 

So my challenge to you today, and to myself, is to stop and ponder this whole concept of redemption, the salvation that is available to all people.  And today, if you have not shared your faith, do it without fear.  The angels and the prophets only wish they could do it for you.