In what ways can our good deeds glorify God on "the day of visitation"? Reading the Verse in Context “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:12) Understanding “the day of visitation” - Old Testament background: a “visitation” (Greek, episkopē) can be for mercy or judgment (Isaiah 10:3; Jeremiah 10:15). - Immediate context: Peter expects unbelievers who once mocked Christians to end up praising God because of what they have witnessed. - Two complementary fulfillments: • Individual salvation moments when God “visits” a heart (Luke 1:68, 78). • The final day when Christ returns in judgment (1 Peter 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:10). Why Good Deeds Matter - They flow from the new nature God gives (Ephesians 2:10). - They silence false accusations (1 Peter 2:15). - They adorn the gospel (Titus 2:10). - They store up eternal reward (1 Corinthians 3:14). How Our Good Deeds Glorify God on the Day of Visitation 1. They bear convincing testimony that the gospel changes lives. • Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine…that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” • Acts 16:25–34—Paul and Silas’ gracious conduct led a jailer to salvation. 2. They expose slander as empty, turning enemies into worshipers. • 1 Peter 3:16—those who malign “your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed.” • Proverbs 25:21–22—kindness “heaps burning coals” on an enemy’s head, prompting repentance. 3. They draw unbelievers to seek the same grace. • Titus 2:11–14—grace trains us to be “eager to do what is good,” making the saving grace visible. • 1 Peter 3:1–2—unbelieving spouses “may be won without a word by the behavior” they see. 4. They serve as evidence at the final judgment. • Romans 2:6–7—God “will repay each person according to his deeds.” • Revelation 19:8—the Bride’s righteous acts appear as “fine linen.” 5. They reflect God’s own character, magnifying His glory. • Galatians 5:22–23—fruit of the Spirit mirrors His holiness. • Psalm 145:9—“The LORD is good to all”; believers echo that goodness. Practical Expressions of Good Deeds Today - Integrity in work and business (Colossians 3:23). - Generous hospitality without complaint (1 Peter 4:9). - Peacemaking and refusing retaliation (Romans 12:17–21). - Consistent care for the poor, widows, and orphans (James 1:27). - Speaking the truth in love, seasoned with grace (Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 4:6). Guarding the Motive - Do good “not to be seen by men” but by the Father (Matthew 6:1–4). - Serve “by the strength God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 4:11). Encouragement to Persevere - “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9) - Every unnoticed act of faithfulness will be remembered when God “visits.” Stand firm, keep shining, and anticipate the moment when detractors become fellow worshipers and Christ is honored because His work is unmistakably displayed in you. |
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