NOTE: 1 Peter 1.3 is printed to provide an introduction to the thought in verse 4.
“Bless be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, “to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:3-4).
It is because of Jesus that Christians have a “living hope” concerning eternity—this hope is possible because of the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.
The elements that make up our eternal inheritance are so grand that even Peter finds it difficult to describe them. In fact, he uses three negative ideas as he attempts to communicate the picture: incorruptible, undefiled, and it does not fade away.
“Incorruptible” means that it is so perfect it cannot be destroyed. It is imperishable, and nothing that will decay is allowed there.
“Undefiled” means it is unsoiled, unblemished; thus, it is perfect as only God can make it.
It “does not fade away” means it goes on forever—it does not stop.
Peter wants these Christians, who are beset with many difficulties here on the earth, to realize there is a better place ahead if they will only remain faithful to Jesus. That same assurance holds for Christians of every age—including our own. Heaven is so wonderful it will be worth whatever sacrifices we must make to navigate the turbulent waters of life in a way that is pleasing to God.