Scripture Text: 1 Peter 5:12-14 ESV

12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.

Peter is reminding us for the final time that being in God’s family has both privileges and responsibilities.

Purpose (verse 12)
Greetings (verses 13-14a)
Benediction (verse 14b)

“Their peace, then, is not the peace of this world, but the blessings of the coming age and its ruler, experienced in his “family” in foretaste in this life.” – Peter Davids

“To be in Christ is to be united with Him for all the benefits of redemption: it is the status of all true believers as soon as they have become Christians, and they will remain in Christ for all eternity.” – Wayne Grudem


Gospel (informed and motivated) thinking and acting diagram:

Purpose (12): grace – trust
Greetings (13-14a): Savior – rightly
Greetings (14a): family – love
Benediction (14b): peace – in union