Finally, all of you be like-minded, compassionate, loving as brothers, tenderhearted, courteous, not rendering evil for evil, or insult for insult; but instead blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 2:8-9 WEB
The apostle Peter appears many times in the gospels of Christ. He is one of the original twelve disciples of Christ. He is known as Simon, Simeon, Simon Peter and Cephas. Jesus changed Peter’s name from Simon as he gave him a unique role in the founding of the Christian church. We read of this event in Matthew 16:18 in which Jesus said, “I also tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my assembly, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. WEB”
The name Cephus means “rock” in Aramaic. Likewise, Peter means “rock” in Greek. The name derives from the Greek word Petros. The feminine form of the word is Petra which means “praised for empowering strength.” Similarly, Peter does not mean cold and dead as a rock. Rather, it indicates a person who is solid and supportive. Although Peter denied Christ three times upon his arrest, Jesus forgave him after his resurrection in a demonstration of what loving as brothers truly means.
Love One Another
Called to discipleship in Christ with his older brother Aaron, Peter was a fisherman. Jesus’ purpose for Peter was apparent from the moment of his calling. As he fished with Andrew, Jesus said to them both in Matthew 4:19, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers for men. WEB” The core principle of loving as brothers all of mankind was present in those men. After learning from Christ, the principle of loving as brothers became a core message of Peter’s ministry as he encouraged repentant sinners to a new life in Christ.
Peter’s message of compassion and loving as brothers closely follows the teaching of Christ. Jesus taught in John 13:35, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. WEB” Also, Jesus taught the faithful to love even our enemies. In faithful adherence to the teaching of Jesus, Peter encouraged the faithful to forgo returning evil for evil and insult for insult. For the purpose of the eternal blessing of God, Peter taught the church to bless all people. As Christ said in Luke 6:28, “bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for calling me away from sin and into a life of service to your holy kingdom. Thank you for the guidance of your holy word. Give me a spirit of forgiveness to demonstrate your love in my life. Help me to live by your word and your will. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: On the Sabbath
