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1 and 2 Peter, Special Essay

(The following is not a discussion of the contents of Peter. Instead, it is a brief philosophical essay, which I hope will help us to better understand some of the difficult things Peter is teaching in our study. I hope you will indulge me in this brief parenthesis, for I feel that it is necessary in order for us to get a perspective on what Peter is trying to get across to those who would be followers of Christ.)

On Being Human

Because we are creatures of time and space, we are limited. Not only do I live in a small part of a vast cosmos, but I also occupy a small period of time in the vastness of eternity. A measure of my maturity is my ability to think and act in my little box with a view of the larger box which surrounds me. In other words, to be able to deal with the present in terms of future expectations, or to govern my behavior with a realization of its effect on the larger world beyond my little corner. 

Harry Overstreet, in his book The Mature Mind, says a child is born into a world of "isolated particulars". As he sees his toes, and tries to get them in his mouth, he is unaware that they are connected to him. As he matures, he becomes more aware of the relationship which exists between the objects that make up his world. The really mature person is aware not only of the relationships which exist in his small local world, but how this small world relates to the larger world, and how the actions of the present impact his future and the future of others. The childish and immature are only interested in instant gratification and personal satisfaction. Such people not only contribute nothing to the world, they are a danger to all in the scope of their power and influence.

The teaching of Jesus centered on making us creatures who never act without first considering the consequences on the people around us, and on the future of our society as a whole. "He considered equality with God not something to be grasped, but emptied Himself...etc." Jesus acted in the present in such a way that the future could be assured for those who followed Him. 

As humans, we all have animal urges and desires. Only the most mature can maintain control of these drives, especially when the pressure is on, and our comfort and ego are threatened. To act in the present so that principles can be established and precedents set to benefit others now and in the future, is the ultimate maturity, and the ultimate imitation of Christ. To do this, one must be transformed from the animal self, to which he was born, into a new creature, who lives for the Father and not for himself. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." 

(These are the principles Peter is talking about when he urges his readers to suffer in silence, do good in the face of injustice and evil, and lead others to a better life by their humble actions of goodness. Establishing good for the future is more important than satisfaction in the present.)

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