But grow in the grace and knowledge or our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)
Most of us know the words to our favorite songs by heart. We didn’t have to work to memorize them; they just became part of us as we sang the song time and time again. A song we loved years ago comes on the radio, and we can perform the entire drum solo on our steering wheel. Churches often recite at Easter: “Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.” If we have spent time in church, we can easily say these words without even thinking—like the lyrics to a song.
Peter challenged believers to do more than just say the words. He reminded us that the whole of Scripture declares God’s judgment and mercy, his power and patience. He called us to review the words of the prophets and the apostles and to see Christ in and through it all. One of those prophets recorded David’s instructions to “sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts” (1 Chron. 16:9).
If you don’t rejoice at the words “Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again,” talk to others about God’s wonderful acts. Peter was praising God throughout his letter. That’s what he encouraged us to do. Be Peter to the next generation: Thank God for all he’s done throughout history and in your life, and then testify to others.
Tell someone about what God has done for you.
Priscilla Hammond is an ordained pastor and associate professor in the Benson School of Business at Southern Wesleyan University. She served as the compiling editor of This Holy Calling (WPH, 2022).
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
