Beloved. A tender greeting emphasizing mutual fellowship and concern. As Peter anticipates the dark days ahead he gives counsel designed to brace his people for the coming storm.
Think it not strange. Literally, “do not continue to be astounded.” As long as the great controversy between Christ and Satan rages over the souls of men the Christian may expect a variety of tests and problems designed by Satan to destroy his faith in God (see on chs. 1:7; 3:17).
Fiery trial. Gr. purōsis, “a burning,” “scorching.” Compare ch. 1:7. The fierce persecutions of Nero were soon to scorch the church; the mounting harassment of the Jews and Romans was only a prelude to the coming holocaust. Satan tried every scheme he could devise to destroy the infant church. In view of the coming hour of trial Christians today may well heed the words of Peter to the church of his day.
Try. Gr. peirasmos (see on Matt. 6:13; James 1:2). As with Job, God permits Satan to test the character of His faithful ones. God knew Job’s endurance, and ever since then those who suffer have been strengthened by his example of steadfastness under a “fiery trial.” Life’s sufferings are not sent by God but by Satan. However, God overrules by making them the means of developing character in His children. See on Job 42:5; Ps. 38:3; 39:9.
Strange thing. That is, something unheard of. The “fiery trial” is not something new, for Christ suffered as much as any human being could be called upon to endure (v. 13). The “fiery trial” simply makes Christ’s disciples “partakers” of His sufferings.
.png&w=384&q=75)
.png&w=384&q=75)
