We return to I Peter where we began several years ago with this blog project. In Peter’s first letter we find baptismal language that expresses our Christian identity. In Chapter Three, the apostle appeals to readers to be zealous for the good; and thus, if one suffers, it should be for what is good. Christians should honor Christ as holy, always making our defense with gentleness and respect. A Christian should have a good conscience so that those who revile him are put to shame.
Christ, the righteous one, suffered for the unrighteous so that we may be brought to God. As God saved Noah and his family from the flood, so He saves us through Baptism. Through the resurrection of Christ we appeal to God for a good conscience, sealed in Baptism.
This brief discussion of Baptism is found in the context of the importance for Christians not to suffer because of unrighteousness but for righteousness’ sake. The aforesaid is a central theme of the letter.
The people of God have a firm identity as those who have been delivered from sensuality to holiness. The Christian identity is described in several titles, centered in the fact that we are baptized.
Holy–An eminently moral people out of God’s grace and mercy
Sojourners and Elect Exiles–The world is not the permanent place for Christians, but heaven is. Those who believe in Christ will enjoy the fulfillment of God promises.
Spiritual House–A metaphor for the people who offer spiritual sacrifices, that is, worship and praise.
Holy Priesthood/Royal Priesthood–Christians mediate God’s grace and mercy to the world
Chosen Race–Chosen like Israel was chosen. The elect who will inherit the kingdom of God.
Holy Nation–A people dedicated to the praise and worship of God.
A people for God’s Own Possession–The people of God have a special relationship to the Lord through Jesus Christ
God’s People–Like Israel a special people because of their election.
The people of God declare the excellencies of God who has called them out of darkness into God’s marvelous light. This happens in and outside of worship.
Baptism confers on each person the honor and privileges of their election.
Baptismal imagery in the Service of Holy Baptism in the Lutheran Book of Worship draws much from I Peter. In the “Flood Prayer,” a thanksgiving over water, Noah and the saving of him and his family are included. Other biblical images are mentioned leading to the statement that by the death and resurrection of Christ we are set free from sin and death and given eternal life. Baptism is a sign of cleansing, rebirth, and the kingdom.
Later after the administration of the Sacrament, a representative of the congregation announces that that the newly baptized has become a member of the priesthood that “we may proclaim the praise of God and bear is creative and redeeming Word to all the world, ” a reference coming out of I Peter.
I Peter describes the divide between those inside and outside of the Church. The apostle counsels those to whom he sends his epistle to act with the highest ethical conduct; for, it is better to suffer because of pursuing the good than for doing wrong. In this interface between the two, the Christians will defend the faith with gentleness and respect. Peter calls on the churches ” to have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” (I Peter 3: 8 ESV) We suffer on behalf of the good, not evil.
We, the baptized , have been united to Christ and serve Him in all that we do including defending and witnessing to the faith. Our identity keeps us anchored in Christ who has called us out of darkness into light.
Michael G. Tavella
September 29, 2004
Saint Michael and All Angels
