Marvelous Grace

 Dale Buchanan

"Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 

Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 

Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into." (1 Peter 1:10-12 KJV).

The Old Testament prophets prophesied of Jesus' kingdom AND his suffering. (Isaiah 53, Psalm 22, Zechariah, and others). 

They expected the Messiah to come, free them from bondage to other nations, and set up his kingdom. 

They had difficulty understanding their prophecies about both the Messiah's suffering and His glory.

The Holy Spirit inspired their writings and assured them they were writing their prophecies for future generations. 

Old Testament saints were saved by grace through faith, just as we are today. 

But they did not understand God's grace as demonstrated in the cross and resurrection of Jesus. 

The mystery of the church (Jews and Gentiles joined together as brothers and sisters in Christ) would be revealed later.

The recipients of Peter's letter were privileged to hear, understand, and believe the gospel of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. 

Through Holy Spirit-empowered messages, they accepted Christ. It was such an astounding plan and message that the angels observed it with awe.

If you are a born-again believer today, you can rejoice in your salvation and be thankful that, by God's marvelous grace, Jesus paid it all, your sins are forgiven, and you are indeed on your way to heaven.

Dale is a Christian writer, retired pastor and accountant. Contact