“In which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah….” 1 Peter 3:19-20
March 30, 2024
This we know and are assured of that Christ died for sins once for all (1 Pet. 3:18). This was on Friday (“Good Friday”). This we also know that Christ was buried and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures (1 Cor. 15:4). But where was Jesus on Saturday between Friday and Sunday? The Scriptures are silent about Saturday, for the most part. We know significant bodily corruption had not taken place (Psa. 16:10), and most importantly Scripture had to be fulfilled (Matt. 12:40). The apostle Peter helps as he tells us of Jesus suffering triumphantly in the victorious proclamation. Considering all the interpretations (about five of them), this seems to suit the context best. Peter’s purpose is to encourage his suffering readers with evidence of the victory of the suffering Christ. Jesus Christ made a victorious proclamation to those demonic powers who had invaded the human race in Noah’s day. They had been imprisoned in Hades until their final judgment (Col. 2:15).
There is to be triumph in our suffering as Christians. Suffering as a minority must not be interpreted as defeat. The Lord Jesus triumphed over all sin, demons, Satan, and suffering itself. Take heart Christian. Take heart.
H
“I thank you, Lord, that all hardships suffered in this life for your sake have the silver lining for that day when I see you face to face.”