The Bible CourseSample

Living hope, the unveiling and our anchor – hope has a name

Reflect:

‘Remember Red, hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.’ (The character Andy Dufresnein the film Shawshank Redemption)

Despite the horrors of Shawshank prison, Andy – locked up for murders he didn't commit – somehow never let his hope die. He pictured a better future for himself: a home by the ocean, a warm place where he’d live out the rest of his days mending boats. He didn’t just picture it but worked patiently towards it, and his hope in this better story becoming a reality helped him to face the injustices and struggles of prison life.

What was the basis for Peter’s living hope?

Today’s passage comes from the beginning of a letter that Peter wrote to believers who were scattered across territories controlled by the Romans, and were enduring suffering and persecution. Whether Peter was referring to a literal exile or a more spiritual one, the word captures an uncomfortable feeling of being foreigners – at odds with the world in which they live.

First, Peter encourages them by reminding them of what their saviour, Jesus Christ, has done for them. Then, he sets a vision of the future to sustain them in the present. Because Jesus has defeated death, nothing can extinguish the hope they have in him. Hope lives, because Jesus lives. He’s secured for them an inheritance that will never ‘perish, spoil or fade’, and they’re being shielded by God’s power until salvation day (verses 4–5).

This, says Peter, is something to rejoice in, even as they suffer grief and face trials. The ultimate prize is secure. It will all be worth it.

What difference does this living hope make for us today?

Those who believe in Jesus have the same living hope in him today, and eagerly await his return. Indeed, God has not left us in the dark when it comes to the end of the Bible’s big story. The last chapter is called ‘Revelation’, which comes from the Greek word ‘apocalypse’, meaning ‘unveiling’. The vision shared in the book is like God drawing back the curtains to give us a glimpse of the beautiful conclusion on the other side.

Just as sailors drop anchor to hold their boat in place and keep it secure in stormy seas, Jesus is our anchor. When the waters start to swell and the wind picks up, inexperienced sailors might begin to worry. But the experienced sailor has confidence in their anchor. This is what it looks like to have living hope today. Even in the storms, you can rest knowing your anchor is secure.

Respond

‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ’ (verse 3). Living hope causes praise to rise. Let it stir in your heart and burst from your lips today!