THURSDAY October 15, 2026

Does Baptism Save Us?

There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.

1 Peter 3:21-22

Again, it is very important that we understand what Peter was teaching, as these verses are some of the most difficult and controversial Scriptures in the New Testament. There are people who will literally use 1 Peter 3:19-22 as a foundation of doctrine for people to be saved through baptism. This is not true. The Scriptures do not teach that we are saved through baptism––it is not something that can be proven doctrinally.

What Peter taught was that the flood waters came, but Noah and his family were safe inside the ark. The waters became a type of water baptism, but it is not the water that saves us, but Christ who resurrected and is seated in the heavens at the right hand of God. He is able to save us. Listen to Charles Spurgeon who said, “Baptism is linked with faith. Applying water in any way whatsoever cannot wash away a single sin.” I love that. We are saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

There are many types as well as symbolism in the Bible that we need to understand. Listen to the Apostle Paul further explain about the symbolism found in baptism:

...do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Romans 6:3-4).

When you are baptized as a Christian, you need to understand that when you go under the water, it is only symbolic of dying with Christ. You are dying to the old man with his sinful passions. When you are raised back up from the water, it is symbolic of Christ’s Resurrection and the new spiritual life that you have in Him.

Baptism is a sweet emblem of my death to all the world! May I, from now on, live only for Jesus!
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY October 14, 2026

Judgment Will Come!

...when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.

1 Peter 3.20

God is longsuffering, but there is a time when His judgment will come. In the days of Noah, why did judgment come on people and, as we mentioned before, fallen angels? In Genesis 6, we find some answers:

That the sons of God [fallen angels] saw the daughters of men, that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown (Genesis 6:2-4 KJV).

The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth (Genesis 6:11-13 KJV).

God’s divine longsuffering lasted for 120 years before His judgment came. He gave a way of salvation through the ark that Noah built. Noah was a preacher of righteousness who would have told people about God’s coming judgment. Did they listen? No, they perished. 2 Peter 2:4-5 warns:

...if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment; and did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly...,

Then what makes you think that you can live a life of sin and not face God’s judgment yourself?

There is nothing that keeps wicked men at any one moment out of hell, but the mere pleasure of God.
~Jonathan Edwards~

TUESDAY October 13, 2026

Divine Longsuffering

...who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.

1 Peter 3:20

What is being taught by Peter might be very hard to understand because of the fact that there have been many interpretations made by different scholars. I really believe that one of the problems is that some Bible professors have failed to do a proper exegesis––they have not given a careful interpretation by drawing out correctly what is in the text.

Who was Peter speaking about when he mentioned the disobedient? He referred to both fallen angels and people. The Divine longsuffering spoke of God, when He waited 120 years before sending the flood. For all those years, Mr. Noah prepared the ark.

Can you imagine that there was no rain before the flood? The earth’s ground was watered by a mist (Genesis 2:6). What must people of thought when Mr. Noah began to build a three-story ship with only one door and one window? They may have laughed and mocked him as being crazy. But God had directed Noah to build it, and so he kept building.

Noah brought into the ark all kinds of animals––male and female. After 120 years, the Lord told Noah, his wife, his three sons, and their wives to go into the ark. God’s longsuffering had ended. Then the Lord God shut the door. Torrents of water poured from the heavens, and water came from under the earth. The land flooded, but the ark floated. Imagine the screams of billions of people as some sought the ark or ran for higher ground, but it was too late––they all drowned. God’s judgment came, but Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.

Did you know that pitch covered the bottom of the ark? Pitch speaks of atonement. The one door represents the one door to salvation. Only eight people survived the flood––saved through water. God protected Noah and his family. Have you found grace through Jesus and escaped God’s impeding judgment on sinners?

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
~2 Peter 3:9~

MONDAY October 12, 2026

Are Heaven and Hell Real?

“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate....”

Luke 16:19-20

Jesus told a true story about two individuals––one was extremely rich and the other dirt poor. I want you to understand that this was not a parable. In parables, Jesus never used people's names, but this time He used Abraham and Lazarus’ names because this story really happened. Jesus described the rich man as someone who bought luxurious clothing––purple and fine linen. In biblical times, these items were very expensive. He also partied every day with his friends. The rich man had no financial worries; he bought whatever he wanted.

On the opposite spectrum was a certain beggar named Lazarus. He had no family connections and no income––he had nothing. He walked from street to street, begging for food and looking for a decent place to sleep. Sick, tired and full of sores, he lay down at the gate of this rich man.

Imagine, the rich man was enjoying his life, while the beggar longed for just a crumb of bread from his table. The dogs came, ate the cast away bread, and licked the poor man’s sores. I can picture in my mind how this poor, lonely man must have felt, as he listened to the festive music and the friendly chatter, and smelled the scrumptious food, while he had nothing to eat. Nobody paid him an ounce of attention, but God was watching him.

When Lazarus finally died outside the gate of the rich man, the angels came and carried him to Abraham's bosom––the place of the righteous in Sheol (Luke 16:21-22). There multitudes of souls were waiting for the Messiah to set them free. Unfortunately, the rich man also died and was buried. But where was his spirit taken? They took him to hell on the opposite side of Abraham’s bosom––a place of torment (Luke 16:22-23).

Heaven and hell are real places. If you died today, where would God’s angels take you? Do you need to make a change to your eternal address? While you still have breath, ask Jesus to save you.

Heaven is real and hell is real, and eternity is but a breath away.
~Billy Graham~

SUNDAY October 11, 2026

Will You Choose Paradise?

And Jesus said to him [the thief], “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”

Luke 23:43

Jesus, along with two thieves, hung gasping for air on a torturous cross. Crucifixion was a terrible death. The thieves were guilty and deserved their sentence of death for their crimes. However, Jesus was an innocent Man; He had done nothing worthy of death. The pain was agonizing, yet the people watching mocked Jesus. The thieves, one on His right, and one on his left, began to join in with the crowd’s comments:

Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom” (Luke 23:39-42).

The two thieves dying next to Jesus each had a choice to make before they entered eternity. Their choice decided their eternal destination––heaven or hell. One criminal chose to blaspheme Jesus in unbelief. He voiced, “If Jesus was truly the Son of God, then He would save them and Himself. You see, Jesus’ failure to save them was evidence enough for this man to declare Him an imposter.

Yet the other thief declared boldly that Jesus had done no wrong, and he told the other criminal to keep quiet. Why? He sensed they were in the presence of God. In an incredible act of faith, before his legs were broken so that he could no longer gasp for air, the thief asked to be remembered when Jesus came into His Kingdom (Luke 23:42). What a blessed assurance was given to a dying sinner who knew he was guilty: ...Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).

After His death, Jesus went to hell––to Abraham's bosom––and took the righteous to heaven, including the thief. Then hell expanded as one place.

What you do with Christ here and now decides where you shall spend eternity.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY October 10, 2026

Who Were the Spirits in Prison?

...by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison....

1 Peter 3:19

Peter taught on a subject that is probably one of the most difficult passages of Scripture in the New Testament. What did Peter mean when he said that Jesus went and preached to the spirits in prison?

Although scholars have differing opinions, most agree that the spirits in prison are fallen angels––the “sons of God” who sinned in the days of Noah, as described in Genesis 6:1-8. Peter also referred to this in 2 Peter 2:4, as does Jude in Jude 1:6-7. Though it is true that “spirits” could sometimes refer to people, the New Testament usually refers to people as “souls,” and “spirits” are most often referred to as angels or demons.

Even though, in the times of Noah, fallen angels were trying to produce a half-angel/half-human, unredeemable race so that the Messiah could not come, it did not work. God foretold the future in that the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15). The flood came, Noah and his family survived, and much later, Jesus was born. When He died on the Cross, He defeated Satan.

After Jesus died on the Cross, where did He go first? The moment He died, it makes sense that He first went down and proclaimed to the fallen angels held in prison (the Abyss or Tartarus) that He was victorious (1 Peter 3:19). He did not give a message of salvation, for fallen angels cannot be saved. The word for preached in Greek can mean “declare victory.” Again, what 1 Peter 3:19 declared is that between Jesus’ death and Resurrection, He went to Tartarus, where the fallen angels who sinned in the days of Noah were imprisoned, and He declared that He had triumphed over them (Colossians 2:14-15).

You may ask, “What happened to the Old Testament saints? Were they taken to heaven?” Yes, they were taken to Paradise! (Luke 23:43). You see, second, Jesus went to Hades (Abraham’s bosom) and “took captivity captive” (Ephesians 4:8-10). Amazing, amazing!

Come, thou long expected Jesus, born to set thy people free; from our fears and sins release us; let us find our rest in thee.
~Charles Wesley~

FRIDAY October 9, 2026

The Just for the Unjust

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit....

1 Peter 3:18

Peter naturally turned from the subject of our suffering to Christ’s suffering. Jesus is the supreme example of suffering and how suffering allows us to identify more closely with Him. Jesus willingly suffered in His flesh, enduring the torturous death on the Cross; but having resurrected, He secured for us our redemption: In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7).

As sinners, we were separated from God. Imagine the depth of suffering Jesus endured to unite us with His Father. Romans 8:9 describes the phenomena: But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.... God dwells within us! We have the amazing privilege of drawing close to the heart of God. Contemplate for a moment how Jesus suffered for us by reading with me Isaiah 53:3-5:

He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.

Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.

These verses in Isaiah speaks of the crucifixion of our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ––the Suffering Servant. The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 5:21, confirmed that Jesus is our sinless Savior: For He [God] made Him [Jesus] who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. That is why Peter said that Jesus suffered once for sin, the just for the unjust....

He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many, for He shall
bear their iniquities.
~Isaiah 53:11~

THURSDAY October 8, 2026

Suffering for Doing Good

...having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

1 Peter 3:16-17

Let me ask you, “Does God sometimes allow us to go through times of suffering?” The answer is, “Yes, He does.” I ask you another question, “Have you ever had your character defamed?” That is not easy, especially when you know that you have done nothing wrong in the sight of God. Your conscience is clear. Know that, as you suffer wrongfully, God will ultimately use it for good. Those who have reviled you will be ashamed.

I assure you, God is always in control of the situation over both men and the circumstances. Hold on to Paul’s words in Romans 8:31: What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Seriously, we do not have to worry or fear. Our enemies might try to hurt us, but, in reality, they cannot really harm us. Why? Christians are spiritual people––we are not of this world. Put your faith and trust in the Lord. Then during every crisis in your life, you will see that it will turn out for your good and, in turn, become an opportunity to share Christ with others.

Further on in Peter’s letter, he gave us this thought: Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you: (1 Peter 4:12). Fiery trials are normal, not abnormal! In light of knowing this, what attitude are we to have while enduring trials? We are to ...rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. Peter continued, If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part, He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. ... Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. Peter ends: ...what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? (1 Peter 4:13-14; 16-17). What will be your end?

Mark then, Christian, Jesus does not suffer so as to exclude your suffering.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY October 7, 2026

Be Ready to Give a Defense

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear....

1 Peter 3:15

Peter continued to give us solid Christian counsel that we can follow. We are to sanctify the Lord God in our hearts. What does that mean? Well, the word sanctify means “set apart.” So, our lives are to be “set apart” for God’s use and for His glory.

The next exhortation from Peter was the readiness to give a defense of the Gospel. When asked about your faith, give your defense in meekness––power under control. Peter also implores us never to fear man, but to speak boldly, having a godly fear––a deep reverence toward God. Remember, Peter spoke these exhortations to a persecuted Church. He readied them in case they were arrested, beaten or prosecuted. Even under those circumstances, there was always an opportunity to share the Gospel.

It is the same today; we have to be ready to give an answer to those questioning us about our faith in God. Are you ready to give a defense of the Gospel message? Do you know the Bible well enough? That is why you are to study the Bible, not only in church, but also at home. People are searching for the truth; can you help them understand the Scriptures? Listen, there will also be people who watch you as you faithfully endure persecution or suffering. They may say, “How can I have what you have?” Again, you have an opportunity to share the Gospel with them.

If you study the Bible, you will be able to answer your children’s questions about the Bible, and you will also be able to engage in conversation about theology with your coworkers, friends and neighbors. God will enable you to reach your enemies with the Gospel. When we learn the Bible systematically together, we will be equipped to share God’s Word with others. I will continue teaching the Bible line upon line consecutively. Every time we close in Revelation, we will start all over again in Genesis. Why? We want to know God’s Word so we can share it with others.

A man can’t be always defending the truth; there must be a time to feed on it.
~C.S. Lewis~

TUESDAY October 6, 2026

Suffering for Righteousness’ Sake

And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”

1 Peter 3:13-14

Peter posed a rhetorical question. It was intended to make believers think about the futility of those seeking to harm them, just because they followed a pattern of doing good. In other words, it was as if Peter was saying, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Think about that. Peter was right. Who can really be against us?

We must not be fearful when confronted by anyone who opposes us. Even if we were killed for our faith, where would we be? We would be in the presence of the Lord. That is the hope that nullifies fear of death. We are not holding this temporal life dear to ourselves; we are holding fast to the hope that is in Christ: And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world. But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died (1 Corinthians 15:19-20 NLT). This truth secures our hope for eternal life. Every single day of our lives we need not feel troubled.

Going back to what Peter was teaching in verse 13, he knew believers would suffer in this evil world; but he also knew it would only be for a mere moment, because eternity is forever. As you live temporarily on earth, consider yourself part of God's kingdom––a citizen of heaven.

Meanwhile, while living in this world, believers can make an incredible contribution to society. They shine brightly as lights reflecting the love of Jesus. They are endued with power from the Holy Spirit to break the cycle of sin and evil. People will be turned to Christ by our faithful witness––by not rendering evil for evil––by being a peacemaker. We are to follow Jesus’ example of goodness. This is the call of God upon our lives.

Suffering can give us opportunities to witness. The world is a gigantic hospital; nowhere is there a greater chance to see the peace and joy of the Lord than when the journey though the valley is the darkest.
~Billy Graham~

MONDAY October 5, 2026

The Watchful Eyes of God

“For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers; but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”

1 Peter 3:12

The Lord is described in human terms as having eyes, ears and a face, but in actuality, God is Spirit––invisible––as stated in 1 Timothy 1:17: Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. Remember, God is omniscient––all knowing. He is omnipotent––all powerful, and He is omnipresent––all present. So in this respect, God sees and hears all things: The eyes of the LORD are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good (Proverbs 15:3).

Another interesting Bible verse is found in 2 Chronicles 16:9: For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. Yet another Bible verse reflects the same theme: “For His eyes are on the ways of man, and He sees all his steps” (Job 34:21).

For the righteous, a pleasant thought is to consider how God lovingly watches over their lives, but not so for the wicked. They try to hide what they do in the darkness, but God always sees them: Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You (Psalm 139:12).

We are born unaware of God’s gaze, but when we are born again of His Spirit, we become aware of His presence and watchfulness. We also have the privilege of prayer. God hears our prayers, because, through Jesus Christ, we are made righteous: But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— (1 Corinthians 1:30). The Lord’s face is against the wicked, and He will not answer their prayers. God is a just judge, and God is angry with the wicked every day (Psalm 7:11).

Are you aware of God’s watchfulness? Your life is under His gaze. How does this truth affect the way you are living your life?

When the eyes of the soul looking out meet the eyes of God looking in, heaven has begun right here on this earth.
~A.W. Tozer~

SUNDAY October 4, 2026

Pursuing Peace

“Let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.”

1 Peter 3:11

Peter was once again referring back to Psalm 34. Those who desire a good life and to see good days are told to do what? It is simple, really–– turn away from evil and seek peace. Why not pursue a peaceful life? When Jesus taught the Sermon on the Mount to His followers, He taught them how to practically live the Christian life. One precept was to help bring about peace in difficult situations: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (Matthew 5:9). When we become peacemakers, we are exhibiting a Christ-like character. Peacemaking also identifies us as a true son or daughter of God.

It is easy to make peace with those who love us, but what about making peace with our enemies? We need to do that. The only way to do that is through the power of the Holy Spirit: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness... (Galatians 5:22). Our righteous actions are the foundation of peacemaking: Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace (James 3:18). Stay calm and be a peacemaker. Ask the Lord, in whatever adverse place you find yourself, to help you sow peace.

Also notice how James 3:13 gives you the right way to be a peacemaker: Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. Humility in peacemaking is a must, or it will not be well received.

The opposite of being a peacemaker is to always cause trouble. Listen, if you are going to look for trouble, you will be sure to find it. Why not seek peace instead? However, when you see a crime being committed, do not intervene and try to make peace; call a peace officer! Why? A police officer can negotiate or he has the legal authority to make an arrest.

You see, the psalmist knew exactly what he was talking about.

To be a peacemaker, you must know the peace giver.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY October 3, 2026

A Happy Life

For “He who would love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips from speaking deceit.”

1 Peter 3:10

Do you desire a happy life? Then take heed to what is coming out of your mouth. If you want good days ahead of you, control your tongue. Listen, if you want God to bless your life, pay close attention to what Peter taught in this verse. Good days start with a thankful heart. Do you know God is good? Everyone living on this planet experiences the goodness of God in some way––both those in the church and those outside of the church. Think about it. Do you wake up every morning grateful that you can breathe? Now that is a blessing, especially when we consider that each one of us is only a short breath away from eternity––one breath, that is it!

Peter’s encouragement to love life and see good days is linked to turning away from evil and deceitful speaking. What he is relaying to us is a wonderful way to live. The verse Peter used was taken from an Old Testament Psalm which states: Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it (Psalm 34:13-14).

Did you know David wrote this psalm when he was in a really bad place in life? He went through a time of depression and even acted mad in the presence of King Abimelech, who eventually made him leave. Although at this time he was in the enemy’s camp, this champion was described as a man after God’s own heart. If anyone understood loving life and enjoying God’s goodness, it was David, who also wrote Psalm 23:6: Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Ever since he was a young shepherd boy, he always desired God’s goodness and longed to dwell in eternity.

What may appear to be bad days in this world can be looked at as good days for the Christian. Why? Because no matter what happens, we have hope. People without Christ in this world have no hope; they are lost sinners. Some will even raise their fist to God, all because they fail to recognize His goodness. May they be drawn by God’s goodness to a place of repentance and salvation. Our God can save them!

This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
~Psalm 118:24~

FRIDAY October 2, 2026

Blessed Are the Persecuted

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 5:10

When we suffer persecution, we will have to make some very important decisions, just like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German Lutheran pastor and theologian. When Hitler took over Germany, Bonhoeffer had to make up his mind on what he would do. In a radio address on February 1, 1933, two days into Hitler’s regime, Bonhoeffer warned his fellow Germans not to listen to Hitler’s deranged beliefs. He described Hitler what he stood for as nothing more than an idolatrous cult.

The Nazi regime persecuted Bonhoeffer by banning him from public speaking, and to avoid the draft, his friends urged him to leave the country. So he fled to New York City, but the Holy Spirit convicted him to go back to Germany to assist the pastors and the church. He prayed and then got on the last ship home before WWII erupted arriving late July or August in 1939. He proclaimed the Gospel and resisted the evil regime, but on April 5, 1943, the Gestapo arrived at his home and arrested him.

After reading Peter's letters, I guarantee you that Bonhoeffer read 1 Peter and 2 Peter and studied carefully what was written because persecution and prosecutions were happening in Germany. Eventually, on April 9, 1945, Dietrich Bonhoeffer was convicted, and the Nazis hung him. But Bonhoeffer still lives today through his writings and his books. He wrote a book called Bonhoeffer's Prison Letters. If you can, get this book; you will be amazed. Another classic book that he wrote was The Cost of Discipleship––a must read!

Listen, there may come a time when you will be challenged and tried for your faith. You may even be asked to deny Jesus Christ, and it will test your faith to see if you really are a believer. As we continue to study Peter’s letters, you will be equipped to cope under distressing times of oppression and persecution when they come.

After he has been following Christ for a long time, the disciple of Jesus will be asked, "Lacked ye anything?" and he will answer "Nothing, Lord." How could he when he knows that despite hunger and nakedness, persecution and danger, the Lord is always at his side?
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

THURSDAY October 1, 2026

Will You Inherit a Blessing?

...not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

1 Peter 3:9

Christians all over the world have gone through the most horrendous persecution at the hands of evil men. The atrocities committed against them are unthinkable. Imagine having your loved ones murdered right in front of your eyes! How we need to have compassion for other believers who have endured so much hatred.

As we move forward into verse 9, Peter continued to teach us how to have self-control, and how not to respond to hostile people when we are being persecuted and prosecuted. It is in our very nature to repay evil for evil. When I look at our country's history, when our forefathers gave us the Constitution of United States, they gave us freedom: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom to assemble, and freedom to petition. Yet it is God who has ultimately given us freedom––freedom from sin. Jesus said: “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36).

In some of our states, the governing authorities are, trying to take away our freedoms, little by little; parental rights and the right to bear arms are constantly under attack. Legislators, lawmakers and other civil groups in America are using legislation to continue fighting for freedom. Yet we are living in the Last Days, where things are becoming worse and worse. There may come a day when those in authority may even arrest you. If that happens, do not fight or struggle. Calmly allow the wrongdoing––surrender and do not retaliate. You were called to this! Think rationally and spiritually. We are not to act violently, but in love and peace. If we are killed, then we will be in the presence of the Lord! The faithful Christian martyrs knew as they died that they would inherit a blessing––eternal life.

We must all have the spirit of martyrdom, though we may not all die martyrs.
– George Whitefield –

WEDNESDAY September 30, 2026

Love the Brethren

We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love his brother abides in death.

1 John 3:14

In 1 John 3:14, we are told that the clear evidence of a true Christian born-again experience is manifested in our love for one another. Love is the fruit of God’s Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and it should be manifested in our daily lives. Sadly, when we are void of love, it is a big red flag of the possible condition of an unregenerate heart––a person without Jesus Christ as their Savior. You have to question yourself if you are lacking God’s love in your heart for others. Again, 1 John 3:14 is very clear: He who does not love his brother abides in death.

What I find very disheartening is that there are so many family members, even in the church, who harbor hatred for each other. That should never happen. I have learned to go to them and say, “If I have done anything to offend or hurt you, then I am sorry.” This way I have opened the door for forgiveness, just as the Bible teaches: And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you (Ephesians 4:32).

Unforgiveness in the family is a bitter sin. How can our close friends love us, but a brother, sister, cousin or nephew not love us when they are blood relations? Think about that. Look what else the Bible teaches in 1 John 4:20: If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?” Pretty plain and simple, don’t you think?

If someone says they love God, but they hate their brother, the Bible tells us they are a liar! If they do not love a brother who is right in front of their face, how can they say they love God who they have never seen? If a brother is right in front of you, but you do not love him, then where is the love of God in your life? How can you say you are a Christian when your heart and your attitude are not right before the Lord? The Lord commands that you love, care for people and help them. Are you doing just that?

The beginning of love for the brethren is learning to listen to them.
~Dietrich Bonhoeffer~

TUESDAY September 29, 2026

Be Tenderhearted

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous....

1 Peter 3:8

Peter could teach about being tenderhearted in this verse only because he lived it. Most likely he thought in his own mind and heart of the deep valley he was going to suffer through in the future. You see, as he saw so many Christians being killed––people whom he loved and cared for––he knew that one day he would be martyred. He most likely thought of Jesus’ words––words that predicted his future death:

“Most assuredly, I say to you, [Peter], when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me” (John 21:18-19).

A day in the future would come when Peter would be crucified upside down. Imagine, his head would be facing toward the ground, and his eyes would look upward toward the heavens. I am sure that on that bittersweet day, his life became crystal clear, as he understood the picture of his ministry completed and, through grace, his eternal inheritance to come. He also would recognize that what he was enduring and suffering was not in vain, but for the glory of the Lord.

It is the same for you and me––what we suffer and endure in this life is brief. The lives we live are so short in this world, and what really counts is what we do for the Lord every single day. Our eyes should be on the heavens; one day we are going to suffer death and go home––home for all eternity. That is why Peter had a tender heart for the brethren, and that is why we need to have a tender heart toward each other.

A tender heart is a wakeful, watchful heart. It watches against sin in the soul, sin in the family, sin in the calling, sin in spiritual duties and performances.
~John Bunyan~

MONDAY September 28, 2026

Brotherly Love

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers....

1 Peter 3:8

Peter’s third exhortation spoke of brotherly love. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we are to love one another. Why? We are related to each other through the bonds of Christ and His love. Earlier in Peter’s letter was another reference to the same brotherly love: Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart... (1 Peter 1:22).

In secular Greek, the term love is seen naturally between blood relatives, such as brothers and sisters; but in Christian literature, the usage is always figuratively speaking; denoting the mutual love which is the bond of brotherhood in Christ, not just a brotherly love between natural siblings. In fact, the Christian church located in the city of Philadelphia, in the Greek language is called Philadelphos, which translates to “city of brotherly love.”

Christians love the Lord Jesus Christ, and He commanded them in John 13:34-35 to also love one another:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

God has given to us His agape love. It is an unconditional, pure and holy love. Gauge your Christian love by this Bible verse:

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love (1 John 4:7-8).

Think of how many times you and I will go up to a brother or sister in Christ and say, “I love you.” Honestly, do we really mean it, or do we say it mechanically without sincerity of heart behind those words? To love somebody unconditionally is to love with Christ’s love.

Brotherly love is still the distinguishing badge of every true Christian.
~Matthew Henry~

SUNDAY September 27, 2026

Do You Exhibit Compassion?

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another....

1 Peter 3:8

Again, Peter instilled in the hearts of believers that the Church, under persecution, needed to remain united. They were to be on the same channel––of the same mind. Peter sought to develop them into mature Christians who readily became one mind with other believers. Satan, for sure, will attack our minds with evil thoughts. He wants to disturb our peaceful oneness with others. He also wants to instill fear and tries to get us to think negatively: Well, maybe the best thing for me to do is to walk away from God. Do not let demonic thoughts enter your mind!

The second exhortation Peter gave was for believers to have compassion for one another. What does compassion mean exactly? Basically, Peter shared that they should do something to help each other. Compassion is not pity. Compassion is coming alongside a person to help them in any way you can. We are also to be sincerely sympathetic, which can be hard for some of us. However, as we go through sufferings and trials, God is faithful to teach us to feel compassion and sympathy toward others.

When Pastor Dale lost his son, I could not really relate. I had lost friends, and later in life, I lost my wife, but I have never lost a son. You see, God will bring us into deep places of sorrow so that we can learn how to comfort and relate to others. We show them great compassion because we know exactly how it feels to suffer the loss of a loved one. Having gone through the school of suffering, we become comforters to others. Nothing we go through in life is ever wasted. God helps us to be empathetic and to demonstrate His compassion toward others.

It is sometimes hard to open up and share what we have been through because we feel so vulnerable. But when somebody suffers, we suffer with them. When a person weeps, we weep with them; and when they are joyful, we are joyful with them (Romans 12:15). That is what makes us believers in Christ. It makes us like-minded.

A Christian ought to be a comforter, with kind words on his lips and sympathy in his heart.
C.H. Spurgeon~

SATURDAY September 26, 2026 Oneness of Mind Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9 Again, Peter came to a place in his letter where he wrote, Finally... Literally, in the Greek language it means “to sum up.” Peter was going to give believers a full summation of his final thoughts to end the letter. He also knew his brethren were living in a time of prosecution and persecution. He knew that they could not let these opposing forces divide and conquer them. They had to keep unified under the stress of constant persecution. So what should they do? His first exhortation to Christians was to be of one mind, spiritually and mentally. Why? The mind is where Satan loves to attack. Everyone had to be on the same page––not divided, but of one mind. Philippians 2:1-2; 5-8 are more examples of unity. We are led to follow the example of Jesus Christ. What did He face? He faced persecution and suffering. We are to be of the same mind as Him: Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. What you have read are true Christian characteristics. Are you on the same page with other Christians, or do you find yourself unaligned? Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt, we may. Herein all the children of God may unite, notwithstanding these smaller differences. ~John Wesley~

FRIDAY September 25, 2026

Christian Precepts

Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

1 Peter 3:8-9

Interestingly, Peter begins these verses with the word finally, but he has many more exhortations after that comma. So even though he seemed to be closing his letter, he continued for a few more chapters before he finally ended it. You see, Peter’s heart burned for the Church, and there was so much more that he wanted to share with his brothers and sisters in Christ.

Peter wrote to them very personally. He knew they were suffering persecution and prosecution, but despite their adverse circumstances, he wanted them to know how to respond to people who treated them evilly. In doing so, his letter helped his brethren to be prepared for Christian persecution. Yet his approach was optimistic, and, at the same time, positive. Why? He knew the end from the beginning––they would be in the presence of the Lord if they died.

So in this passage, Peter gave Christians instructions that were to be followed. This way they could experience God’s blessings at the worst time in history. We, too, live in a world that is increasingly hostile toward Christians. Churches are mysteriously being burned down all over the world, and Christians are facing persecution. Some believers might ask, “What if we lose our jobs?” “What if we get incarcerated, interrogated or beaten?” Listen, we can never allow fear to enter our hearts. Peter will teach us how to live our lives under the enemy’s assaults. He will help us have the right attitude in life.

When I consider my crosses, tribulations and temptations, I shame myself almost to death thinking, what are they in comparison to the suffering of my blessed Savior Jesus Christ.
~Martin Luther~

THURSDAY September 24, 2026

Understanding Your Wife

Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.

1 Peter 3:7

Husbands, do you understand your wife? Peter implores husbands to treat their wives with understanding. Why? They are the weaker vessel. This means they are created differently than men, because physically they are weaker, and, because of their hormones, they are more emotional than men. Your wife is to be treated with honor. Remember, she is a gift from God: He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD (Proverbs 18:22).

Peter was giving some very important admonitions to the husband. As heirs together of the grace of life... there should be a union of prayer in the relationship. This bond is strained when the husband is insensitive and mistreats his wife. The husband’s prayers are being hindered––literally cut off.

Christian wives in this period of history were experiencing a whole new era as part of the Church. Peter needed to give them biblical guidance from the Holy Spirit. In that culture, women were looked down upon and were not highly regarded. Husbands in biblical times had a concubine for pleasure and a wife to take care of the home, his children, and any other needs. That was a man’s mentality.

The Apostle Paul spoke highly of women, and so did Christ. They were never male chauvinists. They loved and interacted with many devoted women in the Bible. Women ministered to Christ’s needs, and they were the first ones at His tomb when He resurrected (Luke 8:1-3; John 20). Paul had many co-laborers who were women, such as Phoebe and Priscilla. He always treated women with kindness, honor and respect.

Today, most women are valued and honored, yet there are husbands who choose to neglect and abuse their wives. Shame on them! God will deal with these kinds of men. Husbands, love your wives; dwell with them with understanding, as that is what you are called to do.

If any husbands do not honor their wives, they err from the Gospel way.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY September 23, 2026

Are You a Submissive Wife?

For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

1 Peter 3:5-6

How did godly women in the Bible act? They trusted God, dressed modestly, and were submissive to their husbands. Sarah, Abraham’s wife, is such a good example to follow. She obeyed her husband, and by calling him lord, showed him the respect he deserved. Sarah recognized his authority as the leader and decision-maker of the home.

You see, Peter gave an example from the Old Testament and brought the concept of respect and godliness of the wife into the New Testament. In fact, there are many godly women in the whole Bible to learn from. Peter pointed to Sarah because she was a model wife––a spouse who loved her husband and desired to please God. She was not perfect and, at times, gave her opinion and advice too freely, when she should have waited on the Lord. Which, in turn, led Abraham not to make the best of decisions.

These days, wives do not to go around calling their husbands Lord, but you may enjoy this story that shows respectful, spiritual leadership in the life of Billy Graham and the submissive, quiet spirit of Ruth Graham:

“Gently, tactfully, persistently, I tried to suggest and then to persuade Bill that perhaps he, too, should go to Tibet to be a missionary. It was obvious that I was doing the calling, not God. Weeks passed. Finally Bill turned to me. ‘Do you believe that God brought us together?’ I did. Unquestionably. “‘In that case,’ Bill said firmly. ‘God will lead me and you will do the following.’ I have been following ever since.”

What a good example of two people submitted to God in a marriage relationship! Does your marriage reflect the qualities of respect, leadership and submissiveness? With the Lord’s help, ask Him to help you change any areas that you need to work on the most.

I submit to my husband because the Scriptures command me to. I do it out of obedience to Christ.
~Elizabeth Elliot~

TUESDAY September 22, 2026

Incorruptible Beauty

Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.

1 Peter 3:3-4

Peter continued to minister to the women in the church. He wanted to give them an understanding of what true beauty looked like. Christian women need to dress modestly. They should not be trying to get attention by wearing tight, seductive clothing. This will only cause men to lust after them.

Peter focused on the hidden person––the inward heart. Ladies, underline that verse in your Bibles. What did God say to the prophet Samuel when the Lord was choosing the next King of Israel? “For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

What is the condition of your heart? Listen, true beauty is seen in a woman’s character––a gentle or meek and quiet, peaceable spirit. Now meek does not mean weak; it means “power under control.” You can be yourself, but cultivate the hidden woman. Be a godly woman. In Proverbs 31:25, the virtuous woman has godly strength: Strength and honor are her clothing.... In the sight of God this woman is precious.

Also, a woman’s disposition is to have a quiet spirit; she should not be brash or argumentative. Think about it. Examine your character and ask yourself, is it pleasing to God? If you live your life to please God, then you will also be pleasing to your husband and a good example to your daughters.

There is nothing wrong with looking nice for your husband or putting on nice clothing, makeup and jewelry. Again, nothing is wrong with that! However, inward beauty is attractive and lasting––it is an incorruptible beauty.

Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
~Proverbs 31:30~

MONDAY September 21, 2026

Submissive Wives

Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.

1 Peter 3:1-2

As we begin a new chapter in 1 Peter, I am aware that we have many different people reading along with us––people who are single, married and divorced. With that in mind, I want to just give you a refresher course on marriage. What does the Bible teach about marriage?

Let me first give you the background to Simon Peter, because we know that he was not single, nor was he the first Pope, as the Catholic Church teaches. He was, in fact, married. We see this written in the Bible:

Now He [Jesus] arose from the synagogue and entered Simon’s house. But Simon’s wife’s mother was sick with a high fever, and they made request of Him concerning her. So He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose and served them (Luke 4:38-39).

It is really important to understand how Peter was instructing believers about their marriages. He laid a firm foundation of biblical precepts for a successful marriage. Throughout 1 Peter 3:1-6, he encouraged godly submission to husbands––those who were submitted to the Lordship of Christ, those who were unbelievers, and even Christian husbands who were not obeying the Word of God. The Apostle Peter’s encouragement to wives was to look to the examples of the holy women in the Bible who trusted God. The Lord honors a wife’s godly obedience and submission.

The word submissive means “to be placed under.” It is a military term meaning “to subordinate.” Although a husband and wife are equal before God in rank, a wife is placed under her husband’s leadership. Submitting to a nonbeliever is not always easy. Through prayer, allow the Holy Spirit to work in his life. However, keep this in mind: You do not have to submit to sin or abuse. A loving husband will find his wife will readily submit. If you are married to an honorable man who does not know Christ, be a witness to him by your Christ-like behavior and reverence for the Lord.

It’s my job to love and respect Billy; it’s God’s job to make him good. God called you not to make your husband good, but to make him happy.
~Ruth Graham~

SUNDAY September 20, 2026

The Shepherd of Our Souls

For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

1 Peter 2:25

Our Lord Jesus Christ is our watchful Shepherd. He is the God who sees us from His heavenly dwelling place. He is watching over us every single day, hour, minute and second. Peter used the analogy of a shepherd and his sheep from the well-known Scripture Isaiah 53:5-6:

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

What does this Scripture mean? As sinners, we were all going astray. In other words, our lives were going in the wrong direction; we were on the path that leads directly to hell. Jesus warned: “...wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it” (Matthew 7:13).

Sheep are very dumb animals. What do they do that makes them vulnerable? They wander and get lost––they go astray. When I was in Israel, I noticed two Arab shepherds in Bethlehem who had hundreds of sheep. Their sheep were combined. The two of them finished talking and they started walking toward a fork in the road. The shepherds called to their own sheep, and the sheep separated because they knew the voice of their shepherd. We must come to know our Shepherd’s voice.

Who is our Great Shepherd? It is Jesus Christ, the Guardian of our souls! He will go after us when we are like lost sheep. Jesus finds the one who has fallen into a ditch, picks him up, places him over His shoulder, and carries him back to the flock. Even though we go astray, the door to the sheepfold remains open to us; we can return to the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls.

As the children of God, the sheep in the Divine Shepherd’s care, we should be known as the most contented people on earth.
~W. Phillip Keller~