August 4, 2021
Scripture: For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 2 Peter 1:16 ESV
Observation: Having challenged his readers to persevere trials and suffering that shape the divine nature in us, Peter, who knows his time on earth is soon to end, is concerned that they will lose sight of the goal before them (verse 15). So he reminds them that he was an eye witness to the glorious transfiguration of Christ (verses 17-18), that all that he taught them was founded in historical reality—not borrowed from humanly-contrived religions that have no historical basis. Even though Peter’s congregants were not eyewitnesses, he trusts that the historical facts he shared with them are verified by the Holy Spirit, who spoke through the prophets (verse 21).
Takeaway: Two millennia later, we are even further removed from the historical events of the Son of God. But that same Spirit who witnessed the truth of the Gospel to the early church is still testifying to our hearts and minds its veracity. And we bear witness to the transforming power of the historical Jesus’ sacrificial death, resurrection, and ascension in our lives.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for sending us your Holy Spirit, who has opened our eyes to the historical truth of your Son and his Gospel. Like Peter, impress on our hearts the reality of your Son who dwells in us, that we too might testify as eyewitnesses of his transforming power. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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