Second in a series of studies in 1 Peter 2:1-5
“as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2).
As Peter turns from listing negative qualities new Christians are to eliminate from their lives, he provides edification and encouragement. In describing new Christians as “babes,” he suggests a contrast between those who have been in Christ for a while and those who are newly baptized.
The apostle then establishes the attitude new Christians are to have: “desire.” As babies strongly desire a mother’s milk, the new Christian is to have a craving to understand more and more about God’s will—our spiritual food. This desire cannot be casual: it must be intense.
The use of the term “milk” establishes some differences in the complexity of scriptures: a person begins by learning the basics of what God expects of those who want to be His children. After mastering the basics, he or she is prepared to understand some of the deeper points of doctrine.
In either case, the milk must be “pure,” that is, it must be “guileless or unadulterated.” God’s word must always be accepted for what it says without any attempts to change its meaning to suit what individuals might want it to say.
Purpose of this process is growth—spiritual growth. As a disciple of Christ, we are to continue learning more of God’s word, growing in faith, and reaching a level of spiritual maturity, thus pleasing God and preparing ourselves for heaven.
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