Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
December 16. 2024: SOAP #5492: 1Peter 1-5
(reworked from 2010)

SCRIPTURE:  1Peter (NIV) 1:20 He was chosen before the creation of the world but was revealed in these last times for your sake.

OBSERVATION:   The plan of salvation was decided before Genesis 1:1. From this verse I understand that God’s plan in dealing with sin was in place even before Adam and Eve sinned in the garden.  Although God created man holy and without sin, in His foreknowledge He knew man would need salvation.  I believe Satan had sinned prior to this and God in perfect Holiness and Justice removed Satan forever from His place of authority and prepared a place for him and the fallen angels with him. 

But even sin could be used for the glory of God. God would use the opportunity afforded by sin to demonstrate His great capacity for love and mercy, even to the point of making a perfect Sacrifice to atone for sin.  So, God created man and placed him in an area of Satan’s influence.  He allowed Satan to work his evil influence.  (NOTE:  when we influence others to do evil, we are very closely imitating Satan!)  But before Satan even entered the picture, God had a plan to provide redemption.

In all creation we see God’s holiness, wisdom (omniscience) , might (omnipotence), supremacy, and omnipresence.  But where do we see God’s love?  Only in dealing with fallen man do we see the greatness of His love, mercy and grace as He forgives and restores those who have hurt Him. 

APPLICATION:   Jesus was revealed for my sake.  In him God has provided the sacrifice needed for my sin and the strength trust Him and walk in obedience to His laws, I find he prepares me for what needed for my victory.  As I look ahead, I see that God has great understanding of me and thoughtfully prepares me for the future. 

PRAYER:  Lord, thank you for loving me and the many things you do for my benefit.   Amen. 

Pastor Leon
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