A Chain of Faithful People

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:10-12: Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

Observation – What an intriguing thought – the prophets of old had the Spirit of Christ in them. As I recall from the first chapter of John, He was in on everything from the beginning. So in all those Old Testament stories, Christ was present. It was revealed to the prophets that they were serving generations yet to come. That’s true for us today, as well. What we do for people today, not only affects them today, but it affects people yet to be born. The church we know today is the result of faithful actions by people who have served before. And if the Lord tarries in His return, the church two or three generations from now will be affected and shaped by our faithfulness today.

Application – I will be aware today of the long line of faith that’s part of my life. How strong a link will I be in this chain of faithful disciples?

Prayer – Lord, give me strength, courage, wisdom and vision today to serve you and your church – your on-going body in this world. Please keep that longer range perspective in my mind and heart, even as I serve you today.