An Equal Standing

If anyone could claim a position of superiority within the Christian faith, it would have been Peter. He was chosen by Jesus. He was the man who gave the powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2. He was a leader of the early Church. Yet, no matter what he had accomplished, Peter saw himself simply as “a bond-servant and apostle”—a man who served and who was sent.

Perhaps even more remarkable is that this mighty apostle was writing to people whom he addressed as having “a faith of the same kind as ours.” The Greek word indicates something of equal value or honor. Think about this! The humblest Christian could have a faith of the same level of value or honor as did Peter!

How was this possible? “By the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” All of us depend on what God has done for us through Jesus. Everything is from Him, by Him, and through Him. None of us can be righteous in our own strength or earn His pleasure through the things we do or say. None of us can be good enough or righteous enough to earn God’s favor.

What an amazing truth! It’s a truth that applies to everyone, even today. Just think: You can have the same kind of access to the Father as the apostle Peter did! And, just like Peter, you have the same opportunity to serve Jesus and be sent to spread the Gospel.

Do not limit what God can do through you. He is ready to teach you, speak to you, and guide you. He wants to empower you with His Spirit, answer your prayers, and do mighty things through you.

Have faith. Be bold. Trust in His righteousness. Stay humble. Seek to be a servant of the Gospel. And dedicate yourself to telling others the Good News.