The cross anticipates the obedience of God’s people because it unites them to their Saviour

The apostle Peter wrote this letter to believers who were facing increasing opposition from the world. He knew first hand that this would bring great temptation upon them and so urges them to obedience.

Peter comforts them by reminding them that, as believers, they are chosen according to God’s foreknowledge, believers in time … chosen in eternity. They are the object of divine affection even though unworthy of it. They have received the gift of faith for a purpose which is to be obedient to their Saviour. They can do this because of the ‘sanctifying work of the Spirit’ who indwells them.

They are also reminded about being ‘sprinkled with Christ’s blood’ through what happened at the cross where he poured out his life for them. It is this that makes the believer’s relationship with God secure and brings about the obedience of faith which identifies them as Jesus’ disciples.