After Peter identifies himself, addresses the pilgrims, and bestows a blessing of grace and peace, he enters into worship. Have you ever wondered at the phrase “Bless God?” I have. When I read it in the Psalms or heard a preacher say it, I was puzzled. How do you bless an infinite being? And here it is again. Peter begins “Blessed be the God.” Peter worships God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ our living hope.
Worship God the Father
Worshipping God the Father was a big part of how Jesus lived. His entire life was an act of worship to God the Father. He honored His Father’s house. He spoke of His Father’s kingdom, not His own. He acknowledges that He was sent from God as a gift to the world because of God’s love for it. Jesus knew who He was and His role, but He always worshipped God as the Father. Peter reminds his readers to worship God the Father.
Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Peter writes, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” His abundant mercy provided us with a Savior. Now we have a relationship with the Great and Merciful Creator and His Son who offered Himself as a ransom for many.
Our Living Hope
God has brought us to life again. He did it by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We don’t have a flimsy I hope so but a solid, living hope attached to a resurrected living Savior and ministered to us daily by His precious Spirit. Peter begins “Blessed be the God.” Peter worships God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ our living hope.
Bless God. We have reason for worship today.
