These two verses wrap up the first chapter of Peter’s first letter, and provide some finality to his discussion of God’s Word and it’s power in our lives. However, his conversation isn’t finished, because he dives into the results of that power as chapter 2 begins.

You can see this week’s passage for yourself in 1 Peter 1:24-25.

In order to drive home the point of the power that God’s Word contains, Peter quotes Isaiah 40:6-8 to his readers. This is helpful to reinforce the point of just how imperishable God’s Word is. Because of such power, it does not fade or fail, and it will not perish.

This quotation draws a pretty strong contrast between the frailty of humanity and the Word of God. Peter’s phrase “all men” is literally “all flesh.” Nothing created can last like God’s Word can.

Humanity and all of creation resemble the grass in Isaiah’s passage. There is a beauty that can be found in our universe, cursed though it is by the Fall. Yet grass withers and fails, and flowers wilt and drop their petals. They do not last.

In the same way, mankind also fades. Our lives are defined with a beginning and an end, and we do not live forever. In fact, even the very creation itself will not last; it is headed for destruction as well.

Only God’s Word is permanent. Only God’s Word will list for eternity. And what he promises will come to pass.

And in the midst of that hopeless sounding statement, Peter adds, “And this was the word that was preached to you.” In other words, the gospel, and the gospel alone, can bring everlasting life.

And what is the gospel? It is the message of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, and his death, burial and resurrection on my behalf. This is where everlasting life is to be found.

And this is the word that was preached to you.

Question: Do you grasp the primacy of what Peter is saying here? Have you responded to the Word of God found in the gospel message? You can leave a comment by clicking here.